Investigation of Nitrate and Nitrite Concentration in Drinking Water of some Universities of Iran

Introduction: Water is vital for life. Its inadequate quality causes significant effects on the health condition of the individuals and society. Groundwater is one of the sources of Nitrate that level over standard limits may lead to several health problems such as hemoglobin metabolism and the formation of nitro amino compounds. Therefore, the aim of this study is determining nitrate and nitrite level in drinking water of some universities of Iran. Method: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted during the period from 2016 to 2017 for determining nitrate and nitrite level in drinking water of some universities of Iran including Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Gilan University, Kerman University, Hamedan University, Chamran University of Ahvaz, Shiraz University, Qom University, Isfahan University, Sabzevar University, and Tehran University. 156 samples were collected and Nitrate and nitrite concentrations were tested by a HACH DR-5000 (Germany) spectrophotometer. Results: The results showed that the nitrate content in all samples was below the limit. The highest amount of nitrate was from drinking water samples from Sabzevar University and the lowest amount was obtained from drinking water samples from Gilan and Kerman universities. Nitrite content not detected in all samples. Conclusion: The World Health Organization standard for nitrate and nitrite in drinking water is less than 50 and 3 mg / L respectively. Drinking water with levels of nitrate and nitrite at or below 50 and 3 mg/L is considered safe for everyone. However, comprehensive studies for monitor the chemical quality of water supply sources and provide practical applications for avoiding the rise of these ions is required.