Is bromoform carcinogenic?

Human data are considered inadequate in providing evidence of cancer by exposure to bromoform, while animal data indicate that long-term oral exposure can cause liver and intestinal tumors. Bromoform has been classified as a Group B2, probable human carcinogen.

Are trihalomethanes carcinogenic?

Trihalomethanes (THMs) are chemical compounds in which three of the four hydrogen atoms of methane (CH4) are replaced by halogen atoms. THMs are also environmental pollutants, and many are considered carcinogenic.

What kind of contaminant is bromodichloromethane?

Bromodichloromethane is a halomethane that is dichloromethane in which oneof the hydrogens has been replaced by a bromine atom. It occurs as a contaminant in drinking water. It has a role as a reagent and an environmental contaminant.

Is bromodichloromethane a VOC?

THMs are a group of VOCs classified as disinfection by-products. Because of this concern, the USEPA has established an MCL of 80 µg/L for the combined concentrations of four THMs (chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and bromoform), also known as TTHMs.

Is bromoform a toxic chemical?

In humans, accidental ingestion of bromoform has led to listlessness, headache, and vertigo and at higher doses to central nervous system depression, coma, and death. The estimated lethal dose for a 10- to 20-kg child is 250 to 500 mg/kg.

How does Bromodichloromethane get in drinking water?

Most bromodichloromethane is formed as a byproduct when chlorine or chlorine- containing chemicals are added to drinking water to kill bacteria. Small amounts are formed naturally by algae in the oceans. Only small quantities of bromodichloromethane are produced in the United States.

Why is trihalomethanes a concern?

Trihalomethanes (THMs) are the result of a reaction between the chlorine used for disinfecting tap water and natural organic matter in the water. At elevated levels, THMs have been associated with negative health effects such as cancer and adverse reproductive outcomes.

Are trihalomethanes bad?

In humans, bladder and colon cancers are linked with these THMs. Exposure to higher amounts of THMs may also cause reproductive problems and birth defects. The health risks linked with THMs in water are very small, compared to the risk of potentially deadly infectious diseases in drinking water that is not disinfected.