Assessing the water contaminants in San Luis Potosi and its effects on its inhabitants: An interdisciplinary study on environmental contamination and public health

Abstract

Water shortage and contamination is a problem worldwide, impacting the human health. This research provides a comprehensive assessment of water quality and its possible impact on public health in San Luis Potosi, a region in Mexico facing critical water challenges. Throughout the study of various pollutant sources, the contaminants were identified and analyzed. The study focuses on four contaminants; fluoride, zinc, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and arsenic, which are prevalent in the region's water sources. By analyzing water samples from 28 locations over an 8-year period and correlating the data with health information, the study identifies potential links between water quality and prevalent diseases. Analytical methods adhere to international standards, including the official Mexican standards (NOM), as well as data from authoritative sources like the National Water Commission (CONAGUA) and the ministry of health. With the quantification of the impact on human health, this research paper contributes to associating the main diseases in the population with the contaminants and the main activities of the city. The consequence of each compound is described in detail. The findings suggest that waterborne diseases and health issues may be related to the presence of contaminants in water. To integrate hydrological and health data, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were employed to spatially align the data, allowing for the examination of potential spatial correlations between water quality and public health. This research emphasizes the urgent need for targeted water quality management and public health interventions to safeguard the well-being of the local population and promote sustainable water management practices.