Link Between Trihalomethanes Exposure and Increased Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease

Recent research highlights a concerning association between exposure to trihalomethanes (THMs), particularly brominated variants, in residential water supplies and the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study, published online July 2, 2025, in JAMA Network Open, underscores the potential health risks posed by chemicals formed during water chlorination processes.

Researchers from the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University conducted a comprehensive prospective cohort study using data from the California Teachers Study, which included over 89,000 women enrolled between 1995 and 1996. The study found that higher long-term exposure to trihalomethanes correlated with an increased risk of CKD. Notably, brominated trihalomethanes were identified as the primary contributors, with hazard ratios of 1.23 and 1.43 in the top exposure categories.

Brominated trihalomethanes contributed the most to the overall risk, followed by other contaminants like uranium, arsenic, and chloroform. This link is supported by extensive experimental evidence and holds significant public health implications given water chlorination's widespread use and the rising global burden of CKD.

The findings suggest that communities relying on chlorinated water sources should consider monitoring and minimizing exposure to these chemicals to reduce CKD risk. The study emphasizes the importance of re-evaluating water safety standards and exploring alternative water treatment methods to safeguard public health.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-exposure-trihalomethanes-linked-chronic-kidney.html