Radionuclide Medium Risk
Radium-228
Increased risk of cancer
Sources: Natural deposits
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (5 pCi/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
5 pCi/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 pCi/L
Violating Systems
7 nationwide
Affected Population
1.6M estimated
Avg Detected Level
2.9099 pCi/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Radium-228 in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause increased risk of cancer. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 5 pCi/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Increased risk of cancer
Common Sources
1
Natural deposits National Overview
Total Tests
53
Violations Found
7
Violation Rate
13.2%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
21
South Burlington Water Department
F VT0005162 South Burlington, VT
20,292 served
1 violation
85
Hampton Roads Sanitation District
B VA3800301 Virginia Beach, VA
300,000 served
89
Great Lakes Water Authority (Detroit)
B MI8210001 Detroit, MI
639,111 served
77
Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority
B PA5020012 Pittsburgh, PA
302,971 served
41
Birmingham Water Works
D AL0010001 Birmingham, AL
200,733 served
77
City of Syracuse Water Department
B NY3350001 Syracuse, NY
148,620 served
77
Lewiston-Auburn Water
B ME0090561 Lewiston, ME
37,121 served
Treatment Methods
Ion exchange
Reverse osmosis
Lime softening
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Radium-228.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Radium-228 and why is it in drinking water?
Radium-228 is a radionuclide contaminant. Common sources include: Natural deposits.
What are the health effects of Radium-228 in drinking water?
Increased risk of cancer
What is the EPA limit for Radium-228?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Radium-228 is 5 pCi/L.
How can I remove Radium-228 from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Radium-228 include: Ion exchange, Reverse osmosis, Lime softening.
How do I test my water for Radium-228?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Radium-228 levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.