Water Quality, Exposure and Health: Purpose and Goals

Abstract

As the first volume of the Journal of Water Quality, Exposure and Health starts with this issue it may be important to review the current state of affairs in this vibrant research field and also identify the purpose and the goals of this journal.

From an historical perspective, water quality and health management paradigms have evolved over the past several decades as our understanding of water quality issues and its effect on human health became clear. At this time we cannot say that we fully understand all water quality issues and the health effect consequences of the water quality problems, but research findings in this area are increasing exponentially with very positive and encouraging results that may guide us through this maze. On the other end of this spectrum, organic compounds that have been synthesized since the turn of the century now exceed half a million and some 10,000 new compounds are added to this list each year. As a result, many of these new compounds are now found in the waste and also the water stream. Given the ever increasing number of emerging contaminants and their illusive health effects, it may be safe to say that the ultimate goal of completely identifying all health effect issues associated with water quality problems may not be fully achievable.

This editorial perspective is included in the first issue of the Journal of Water Quality, Exposure and Health to describe the purpose, place and the goals of the journal within this broad research area. This review also provides an overview of the historical evolution of management paradigms adopted in this field, potentially giving us a sense of direction as to what to expect next.