Abstract
Groundwater in the MALWA region of Punjab becomes contaminated because of excess use of fertilizers and pesticides. The objective of this study is to compare previous research and determine the trends related to consuming contaminated groundwater in various districts of the MALWA region and its potential correlation with cancer incidence on human health over the years. Data for this study was obtained from published articles and reports. For the statistical analysis, data for the “number of cancer cases” and concentration of “arsenic”, “fluoride” and “uranium” in groundwater are collected to check the correlation between metal concentration in groundwater and the number of cancer cases. From 2006 to 2023, an increase in cancer cases alongside fluctuations in arsenic, uranium, and fluoride levels were reported in previous studies. However, the strength and significance of this relationship vary across the different independent variables. For arsenic concentration, there is a moderate positive and uranium concentration shows a stronger positive correlation with cancer patients. Groundwater contamination poses serious health risks due to industrial waste, pesticides, and natural sources. Elevated levels of carcinogens like arsenic, uranium, and fluoride correlate positively with increased cancer cases. Urgent action is required to analyze and treat groundwater and reduce pesticide use. Also, implementing alternative water sources and toxin removal systems is crucial to safeguard public health.
Keywords: Arsenic, Cancer, Contamination, Fluoride, Groundwater, Uranium.