Health Issues Related to Contaminated Water in Delaware

November 7, 2024

Water contamination continues to affect Delaware communities, especially in areas like Wilmington. When dangerous chemicals like PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) get into the water supply, they pose serious health risks for everyone in the area.

If you live in Delaware, let our Wilmington water contamination lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. tell you how to seek legal recourse if water contamination has affected you or your loved ones.

What Health Problems Can Result from Contaminated Water?

Clean, potable water sustains life, but contaminated water can cause health issues, some of which you may not know about until years later. Studies have linked PFAS contamination to increased risk of cancer, liver damage, immune system disorders, reproductive issues, thyroid disease, higher cholesterol levels, and weakened immune responses. Scientists call them “forever chemicals” colloquially because they do not break down in the environment or the human body.

PFAS also disproportionately affects children and pregnant women. Studies also link exposure to developmental delays and other complications during pregnancy.

How Has Water Contamination Affected Delaware?

Wilmington has seen some of the highest levels of PFAS contamination in the state, with the contamination level at times far exceeding the safety guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Wilmington residents have lived with these levels for years and are now paying the price.

Residents have reported issues related to cancer clusters, autoimmune disorders, and other severe health challenges, despite the best efforts by local authorities to contain and resolve the contamination.

What Should You Do if You Suspect Your Water Is Contaminated?

If you believe your water is contaminated, consider taking it for a laboratory test or getting a blood test. Local authorities monitor PFAS levels in public water systems, but contamination can still happen.

If you can, drink from bottled water or install a carbon-based water filtration system to catch PFAS. Record any health issues you suspect might have to do with PFAS contamination in case you file or join a lawsuit for compensation.

Can You Take Legal Action if You Have Been Affected by Contaminated Water?

If you suspect that you have drank or exposed yourself to contaminated water in Delaware and are now suffering from resulting illnesses, you may have grounds for legal action. Residents nationwide have filed lawsuits against PFAS manufacturers, such as DuPont and 3M, for knowingly releasing these harmful chemicals into the environment.

Protect Your Health and Legal Rights With the Wilmington Water Contamination Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A.

If you have health issues related to water contamination, trust the Wilmington water contamination lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. to protect your legal rights. Call us at 302-656-5445 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. Our New Castle and Millsboro, Delaware, offices serve clients in New Castle County, Kent County, and Sussex County.