Water supplies in two dozen major metropolitan areas around the nation have tested positive for traces of pharmaceutics, including water supplies in Denver and Colorado Springs, according to news reports.

State Rep. Amy Stephens, R-Monument, thinks the issue deserves attention before it becomes a serious problem.

The El Paso County lawmaker will host an educational symposium at Pikes Peak Community College, on the Rampart Range Campus, in Colorado Springs, on Friday, Sept. 26.

"Medications continue to be found in the water supplies of more cities like Colorado Springs and it is becoming an alarming issue," said Stephens. "It is our responsibility to raise awareness of the problem, to bring industries together, and to find a solution to keep our water safe."

The problem is due in part to people flushing unused pills down toilets. The increased use of pharmaceuticals in general has also contributed to the problem because the medications slip through sewage and drinking water treatment plants.

Colorado Springs Utilities found 13 compounds in one if its three water systems.

According to the Associated Press, at least 46 million people in the U.S. are drinking water that contains some traces of pharmaceuticals.

"If we don't become proactive now to address the problem, we will be in a reactive mode with both our water supply and the health of our communities," said Stephens.

At the symposium , organizations and experts will present information and answer questions from concerned citizens from around the state. The group also will explore policy options.

The event is open to the public. To reserve a seat, RSVP no later than Sept. 22 by calling 719-460-2219 or by emailing rgbscuba@aol.com