Asbestos fibers can enter water from deteriorating cement pipes or industrial waste. When ingested, these durable minerals may increase cancer risk over time.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in construction, including water pipes. It can enter drinking water when old asbestos-cement pipes deteriorate or from industrial waste. The EPA measures asbestos in million fibers per liter (MFL) and regulates its presence in public water systems. Asbestos fibers are extremely durable and don't easily break down in water, potentially leading to long-term exposure through ingestion. While health risks are primarily associated with inhalation, the EPA limits asbestos in drinking water as a precautionary measure.