Concentration of Aluminum in Drinking Water of Pakistan and Its Implications on Human Health

Abstract

Aluminum (Al), is the third most abundant element in the earth's crust but it is “excluded from biology” as development of all biota has taken place without it and there are no known biological functions linked to it. Currently anthropogenic activities have resulted in great exposure of this non-essential metal to human beings. The intake of Al has implications on human health and increases risk of various diseases. Major sources of Al include occupational exposure, food and water. Water is of greatest concern because Al is commonly bioavailable in water. The alarming situation in Pakistan about Al concentration in drinking water calls for an immediate need to design policies and legislations to ensure below average risk of this metal's effects. Limiting human exposure to Al is the only way to reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease (AD). In view of the extensive literature review, we propose development of public health surveillance programs for AI at the policy level.