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As EPA considers cancer links to nitrates in drinking water, industry downplays the risks

Summary

The EPA is reassessing the health risks of nitrates in drinking water, with growing concerns that exposure could increase cancer risk. Nitrates, commonly leached from fertilizers and manure, have long been linked to infant health issues like blue baby syndrome, but new studies suggest they may also contribute to higher rates of stomach and colorectal cancer. Environmental groups argue that current federal limits, set over 30 years ago, are outdated and insufficient to protect public health. Meanwhile, industry groups are pushing back, funding research to downplay risks and arguing that stricter nitrate regulations would be costly. The Trump administration’s return has raised fears that the review process may be delayed or derailed, as past efforts to tighten regulations were stalled. Public health advocates stress the urgency of stronger nitrate controls, citing increasing contamination in farming states like Iowa and Wisconsin.

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