Scientists from the University of California, Riverside discovered that the water in the Central Valley of California contains excessive amounts of manganese, which can lead to cognitive and motor impairments as well as Parkinson’s disease-like symptoms in adults. Research published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology.
Manganese is a naturally occurring element found in various compounds in water sources and is essential for human health in small amounts. However, excessive exposure to manganese in drinking water can cause neurological symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness and developmental problems in children, as well as damage to the liver and kidneys.
The study found that in the Central Valley, the highest manganese concentrations were found in private well systems, and more than half of the wells studied had high manganese levels. However, researchers have also found dangerous levels in public water supplies.
Particularly obvious problems are people with low incomes. In disadvantaged areas, almost 89% of residents used manganese-contaminated water.
The scientists hope their research will lead to subsidizing the purchase of manganese filters for low-income people.