The U.S. Environmental Agency is taking action to deal with the issue of the likely cancer-causing chemical chromium 6 in tap water, the agency's chief said Wednesday. Lisa Jackson said the EPA plans to work with local and state officials to determine the extent of the problem, and will offer technical help to cities with the chemical in their tap water, USA Today reported.
A study released earlier this week by the Environmental Working Group said chromium 6 (also known as hexavalent chromium) was found in the tap water of 31 of 35 cities tested. The chemical has been linked to leukemia and cancer in animals, as well as liver and kidney damage. Jackson also said she met with 10 U.S. senators Tuesday to update them on the agency's review of chromium 6. The EPA has been weighing whether to set a specific limit for the chemical, USA Today reported.
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