What is the primary risk associated with bromate?

Bromate is primarily recognized as a carcinogen, meaning its presence in drinking water is associated with an increased risk of cancer. This risk arises from the formation of bromate during the disinfection process, particularly when ozone is used to purify drinking water sources that contain bromide. The chemical properties of bromate allow it to interact with biological systems in a way that has been linked to the development of cancer in laboratory studies.

Understanding bromate's role as a potential health hazard underscores the importance of monitoring its levels in drinking water supplies. Regulatory agencies set limits on bromate concentrations to safeguard public health and minimize cancer risks among populations relying on treated water sources. Implementing measures to prevent bromate formation during water treatment is a key practice in ensuring safe drinking water.

While surface water contamination, gastrointestinal illnesses, and changes in pH levels can all pose risks in the context of water quality, they do not directly relate to bromate in the same way as the risk of cancer does. Therefore, the focus on bromate's carcinogenic potential makes it critical for water operators to be vigilant about its formation and presence in treated water.