GENERAL INFORMATION
Virtually all food, water , air, and soil contain some aluminum. Since aluminum is so common and widespread in the environment, exposure cannot be avoided. Drinking water is not usually a significant source of aluminum exposure.
HEALTH EFFECTS
Exposure to aluminum is usually not harmful, but exposure to high levels can affect your health. Workers exposed to large amounts of aluminum dust can have lung problems. Some people with kidney disease store a lot of aluminum in their bodies and sometimes develop bone or brain diseases which may be caused by the excess aluminum. Some studies show that people exposed to high levels of aluminum may develop Alzheimer's disease, but other studies have not found this to be true. We do not know for certain whether aluminum causes Alzheimer's disease.
AESTHETIC EFFECTS
High levels of aluminum in your drinking water may turn the water to a bluish color.
SMCL ADVISORY - ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Aluminum levels were detected in your water sample to exceed the secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL).
ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Aluminum levels were detected in your water sample but do not exceed the secondary maximum contaminant level (SMCL).
WEBSITE RESOURCES
- USEPA - Water: Drinking Water Contaminants - Secondary Drinking Water Regulations: Guidance for Nuisance Chemicals
- ATSDR - Toxic Substances Portal - Aluminum
FACT SHEETS
- ATSDR ToxFAQs Fact Sheet - Aluminum