The primary drinking water standard for arsenic is 0.05 milligrams per liter. Arsenic accumulates in body tissues. In high concentrations, arsenic can damage the digestive tract, heart and circulation.
Studies suggest that arsenic is associated with skin cancer.
Studies also indicate that arsenic in small amounts may be an essential element for normal human development. Possible Source of Contamination Arsenic contamination of water is most often caused by leachate from solid waste landfills, or from use of pesticides.