Problems of providing the Leningrad region`s population with full-fledged drinking water from underground sources

Abstract

Introduction. There are about 2,900 settlements in the Leningrad Region, the centralized water supply of most of which is based on the underground aquifers’ exploitation, which water is a significant source of essential elements. 
 Material and methods. The paper analyzes the results of 143,578 drinking water samples from 10 aquifers used as sources of drinking water supply. Within the framework of this study, the content of the following elements was evaluated: calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, zinc, phosphorus, iron, manganese, selenium, molybdenum, chromium, sodium, chlorides, fluorides in comparison with the methodological recommendations of MP 2.3.1.0253–21 “Norms of physiological energy and nutritional needs for various population groups of the Russian Federation”. 
 Results. None of the aquifers of the Leningrad region provide the concentrations of phosphates, copper, potassium, zinc and selenium did not satisfy 20% of the minimum required intake from drinking water. Insufficient intake of essential macro- and microelements with drinking water can become one of the causes of metabolic disorders and lead to health disorders. 
 Limitations. Within the framework of this article, water quality is characterized by sanitary and chemical indicators, the chemical harmlessness of water is evaluated. The issues of microbiological and radiological safety of underground water in the Leningrad region, despite their relevance, aren`t considered in this article. In addition, the quality of drinking water in Sosnovy Bor wasn`t studied, since the centralized water supply of this locality is carried out from surface water sources.
 Conclusion. Despite the undoubted advantages of groundwater, they are not able to satisfy the physiological need of the body for macro- and microelements. In this regard, it is necessary to develop targeted preventive programs aimed at replenishing the deficiency of micro- and macroelements in the body for each territory of the Leningrad region. These include the consumption of foods rich in microelements, the intake of biologically active additives containing scarce micro- and macroelements, as well as the use of mineral waters.