Summary
A study found that people drinking water from newer groundwater sources, especially those from carbonate aquifers, might have a higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease compared to those drinking older groundwater. The study highlighted the link between groundwater age and the contamination risk, which could affect neurological health.
Key Facts
- The study linked newer groundwater consumption to a higher risk of Parkinson's disease.
- Drinking water from carbonate aquifers showed a 24% higher risk and up to 62% higher risk compared to glacial aquifers.
- Aquifers are underground formations that store and move groundwater.
- Newer groundwater has been exposed to more pollutants due to shallower depth.
- Older groundwater, deeper and less contaminated, generally comes from aquifers formed over 12,000 years ago.
- Carbonate aquifers are common in the U.S. and are more vulnerable to pollution from the surface.
- The study involved 12,370 people with Parkinson's and over 1.2 million people without it.
