Contamination of Arsenic, Chromium and Fluoride in the Indian groundwater: a review, meta-analysis and cancer risk assessment

Abstract

It is well known that the long-term intake of water contaminated with arsenic (As), chromium (Cr) and fluoride (F−) can develop carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health problems. This review study for the first time presents the comprehensive data analysis of the groundwater levels of As, Cr and F− reported in different states of India. The experimental studies conducted in different regions of India were compiled for inclusive data analysis. This study emphasizes on the severe carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic impacts of these contaminants on the health of the natives. The studies published in peer reviewed journals indexed in Scopus, Science Citation Index and Web of Science have been compiled and represented systematically in order to make the interpretation more visible and clear to the scientific community. The levels of selected elements have been compared with the limits set by Bureau of Indian Standards and World Health Organization and further interpreted for the health hazards of the natives of that particular region. The highest concentration of As, Cr and F− reported in India remained 1.36 mg/L (West Bengal), 33.80 mg/L (Uttar Pradesh) and 85 mg/L (Haryana), respectively. These values were 136, 676 and 57 times higher than the standard limits set for these elements (0.01 mg/L; 1.0 mg/L and 0.05 mg/L, respectively). The state-wise patterns of concentration levels have been shown in graphical forms. This review also highlights the regions severely affected due to As, Cr and F− contamination and reveals the research gaps.