Disinfection by-Products (DBPs) and their Toxicological Risk on Human Wellbeing: A Public Health Concern

Disinfection is an essential step in any water or wastewater treatment facility that results in the production of Disinfection by-products (DBPs) and when these disinfectants interact with dissolved organic matter and a few other inorganic compounds in water, leads to the production of a unique type of substance called DBPs in trace amount. Based on the potential health hazards and impairments associated with exposure to DBPs, USEPA has established threshold levels for certain DBPs like THMs, HAAs, HKs, and HANs. DBPs possible toxicological effects on human health have led to their recognition as a public health concern and they are generally exposed through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact while participating in daily activities including drinking water, taking a shower, and swimming. Exposure to DBPs in humans and other animals has a variety of negative health consequences which include higher chances of Bladder cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, reproductive problems, and skin lesions. With a focus on their effects on public health, this chapter is aimed to discuss in detail about DBPs, their formation, toxicological potential, and effect on the development and aggravation of human disorders.