Manickum T, John W and Terry S
Steroid hormones, naturally synthesized by human and animals, as well as synthetic/plant-derived ones usually in contraception, may be eventually released into the environment, especially in excreta. Levels of these hormones have been detected in significant concentration in sewage effluent around the world. These compounds have the ability, at very low concentrations, to alter normal functioning of the endocrine system, which is responsible for growth and development in vertebrate systems. Their eventual discharge into water bodies can affect reproduction and development in wildlife. Recycling of waste water for human domestic consumption necessitates the need to monitor the water quality of the effluent, as well as a check for these estrogens. Treated sewage effluent from the Darvill Waste Water Works (DWWW) is discharged into the Umsunduzi River; re-use options are being investigated. Samples were collected and assayed for estrone and 17-ß-estradiol (estradiol) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The steroid hormone concentrations detected were similar to those reported for sewage effluent in Britain, Italy, Germany, Canada and The Netherlands. Preliminary removal efficiencies were noted to be comparable to those reported.
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