Water governance and population health: Evaluating the efficacy of drinking water standards in Angren, Uzbekistan

Ensuring safe drinking water that meets both hydrochemical and physiological standards remains a key environmental challenge. In industrial regions, evaluating local water sources against international criteria is essential to identifying hidden risks to public health. This study investigates the hydrochemical characteristics of surface and groundwater in Angren, Uzbekistan, and evaluates their specific impact on public health within the framework of national and international safety standards. The salt composition formulas of the water samples were determined, and corresponding Piper diagrams were generated. It was also found that the fluorine content in samples taken from Angren water is much lower than the norm, which may cause several issues for public health. A statistical hypothesis test was conducted to scientifically substantiate the correctness of this idea. The low fluorine content was analyzed in relation to World Health Organization data. Suggestions and recommendations were made to eliminate problems related to the impact of the fluorine element in water below the norm on public health. Although the surface and groundwater in Angren were considered suitable for consumption, some physiological deficiency in essential ions was discovered. The study recommends the adoption of Community Water Fluoridation and systemic mineralization strategies aligned with the “Uzbekistan-2030” strategy to mitigate these long-term public health risks.

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