Arsenic is a highly toxic metalloid present in groundwater around the world. Groundwater is contaminated by arsenic in its inorganic form through natural deposits and various forms of pollution. Pesticides, for example, can settle and leach into nearby groundwater. Factories release inorganic arsenic into the environment at excessive rates, and rainwater carries that arsenic down to groundwater. Wells near natural deposits, industrial production, mining, or farming are particularly susceptible to arsenic contamination.

If you drink water from a well, you are more likely to be at risk for some negative effects of arsenic exposure. Some mains water may contain trace levels of arsenic, but most arsenic poisoning from water consumption stems from wells. While you may not experience acute arsenic poisoning from tap water, you may still have some long-term health problems from arsenic-contaminated water.

If you think that this may be an issue, we would advise getting your water tested for arsenic