Why Is This Important?

Arsenic is a naturally-occurring element in the earth's crust, and trace amounts can be found in geologic formations and aquifers in parts of New Jersey. Arsenic may also be found in soils as a result of past use of arsenic-containing pesticides and wood preservatives. Arsenic has been classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) as a known human carcinogen. Ingestion of large amounts of inorganic arsenic is associated with increased risk of several types of cancer, including skin, lung, liver, kidney, and urinary bladder. Other potential effects of ingesting large amounts of arsenic include diarrhea, thickening and/or discoloration of the skin, diabetes, and heart disease.

Definition

Percent of tested private wells with arsenic concentration exceeding the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 5 micrograms of arsenic per liter

Data Notes

Data Source

How the Measure is Calculated

• Numerator:

  Number of tested private wells with arsenic concentration exceeding the maximum contaminant level of 5 micrograms of arsenic per liter in a specified period of time

• Denominator:

  Number of tested private wells in a specified period of time

Related Risk Factors Indicators:

• Nitrate in Private Wells
• Fecal Coliform or E. coli in Private Wells
• Gross Alpha in Private Wells
• Mercury in Private Wells
• Arsenic in Community Drinking Water Systems
• Private Well Usage: Self-Reported as Main Source of Drinking Water

Health Topic Pages Related to: Arsenic in Private Wells

• Water Quality