The Health Effects of Fluoride and Nitrate in Drinking Water in Tunceli (Türkiye)

Fluoride (F⁻) and nitrate (NO₃⁻) are common inorganic constituents of drinking water and can cause significant public health effects when present at inadequate or excessive concentrations. This study determines the levels of fluoride and nitrate in drinking water collected from 18 stations across Tunceli Province, Türkiye, during 2021, and evaluates the non-carcinogenic health risks for four age groups (infants, children, adolescents, and adults). Fluoride and nitrate concentrations were measured using spectrophotometric methods and Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and Hazard Quotient (HQ) values were calculated. Fluoride concentrations ranged from 0.06 to 0.31 mg L⁻¹ and were below the WHO guideline value, with all HQ values <1. Nitrate concentrations varied more widely (0.45–64.38 mg L⁻¹), and exceedances of WHO limits were recorded at several rural stations. Infants and children exhibited HQ>1 values, indicating potential health risks associated with nitrate exposure. The findings highlight spatial heterogeneity in water quality across Tunceli and emphasize the need for age-specific monitoring programs and improved groundwater protection strategies.