How can acid mine drainage affect people's health?

Acid mine drainage (AMD) can significantly impact people's health by contaminating drinking water sources with toxic metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium, which can lead to serious health issues, including neurological damage and cancer. The acidic waters can also harm aquatic ecosystems, which diminishes local fish populations and affects food security for communities relying on fishing. Additionally, exposure to contaminated soil and dust can result in respiratory problems and skin irritations. Overall, AMD poses both direct and indirect health risks to populations living near mining sites.