HEALTH HAZARDS IN THE TAP WATER IN PLOVDIV REGION

Introduction: Water is a precious substance that sustains life on our planet. Nowadays, the quantity and quality of this natural resource is threatened by the global warming, industrialization and urbanization. Purpose: The aim of this study is to present the results of the research on the tap water quality and the most common hazards related to tap water consumption in Plovdiv region. Materials and methods: A review of the official reports from the Regional Health Inspection for the period July 2021- June 2025 was performed regarding the reported tap water quality in Plovdiv region. Descriptive and comparative methods were applied for the analysis and evaluation of the systemized data. Results: The responsible institutions report well documented decline in the quantity of the water resources but in general the water supply is sufficient. There are several populated areas with water scarcity that are in the process of search for new resources. Urbanization, farming and global warming result in frequent microbiological contamination of water which is the most commonly reported deviation from the standards for safety. That is also the most frequently monitored parameter. Pathogenic microorganisms are eliminated by intensified water treatment resulting in high chlorine concentration in the water with possible negative health effects. Still, the necessity for this is expected to remain high in the future. Analysis of the chemical condition of the water resources shows three most common problems – nitrate, phosphate and ammonia contamination as a result of extensive agricultural utilization of the land; uranium contamination, as well as increased alpha radioactivity, probably resulting from a combination of natural and man-made factors; manganese contamination, probably from the geological features of the region. Conclusions: Failure to provide sufficient and clean water would have a profound negative impact on public health and wellbeing. High vigilance is necessary to mitigate health risks linked to contaminated water consumption. The preservation of currently utilized as well as potential future water resources is of highest priority.