2020-2021 Faculty Research Grants
Jean Cadet, Padma Tadi Uppala, and Dixon Anjejo (Population Health, Nutrition & Wellness)
Quality Status of Private Wells Drinking Water in Berrien Springs and Benton Harbor, Michigan
Millions of cases of acute gastrointestinal illness (AGI) from microorganisms occurred each year in the U.S. due to contaminated public and private water systems. In addition, long term exposure to chemical contaminants in well water increases the risks for methemoglobinemia, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and lung, bladder, and skin cancer. About 25% of Michigan residents get their water from small water supplies such as private wells, and therefore, may be exposed to microorganisms and contaminants that pose serious health risks. Thus, the purpose of this Faculty Research project is to test untreated private wells water in Berrien Springs and Benton Harbor to determine their microbial and chemical quality status compared with bottled water sold in those communities.