Question

Formation of non-functional methaemoglobin causes blue-baby syndrome. This is due to

• A. Excess of arsenic concentration in drinking water
• B. Excess of nitrates in drinking water
• C. Deficiency of iron in food
• D. Increased methane content in the atmosphere

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Excess of nitrates in drinking water

Excess of nitrates in drinking water are harmful for human health and may be fatal for infants. Excessive use of fertilizers often leads to accumulations of nitrates in water. In infants excess nitrate reacts with haemoglobin to form nonfunctional methaemoglobin that impairs oxygen transport. This condition is termed as methaemoglobinemia or blue baby syndrome. This disease can damage respiratory and vascular systems and even cause suffocation.

So, the correct answer is 'Excess of nitrates in drinking water'