What to Know About Arsenic in the Environment

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth's crust. It can be released into the environment through both natural processes (such as volcanic eruptions and weathering of rocks) and human activities (such as mining, smelting, and burning fossil fuels).

Arsenic is a known carcinogen, and exposure to it has been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer of the skin, lungs, bladder, and kidney. It can also cause damage to the nervous system, reproductive system, and immune system.

The primary sources of arsenic exposure for humans are contaminated drinking water, food, and air. Arsenic can also be absorbed through the skin.

Drinking water

The maximum allowable level of arsenic in drinking water set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is 10 parts per billion (ppb). However, some communities in the United States have arsenic levels in their drinking water that exceed this limit.

Arsenic can enter drinking water supplies from natural sources, such as groundwater contamination, or from human activities, such as mining and smelting.

Food

Arsenic can be found in a variety of foods, including rice, wheat, fruits, vegetables, and meat. The amount of arsenic in food depends on the type of food and how it is grown.

Rice is one of the foods most commonly contaminated with arsenic. This is because rice plants absorb arsenic from the water they are grown in. Arsenic levels in rice can vary depending on the type of rice, the country where it is grown, and the farming practices used.

Air

Arsenic can be released into the air from industrial activities, such as mining, smelting, and burning fossil fuels. Arsenic emissions from these activities can contaminate the air we breathe.

Arsenic can also be released into the air from natural sources, such as volcanic eruptions and forest fires.

Exposure to arsenic

The amount of arsenic that a person is exposed to depends on a number of factors, including their location, diet, and occupation.

People who live in areas with high levels of arsenic in their drinking water or air are at increased risk of exposure to arsenic. People who eat a lot of rice are also at increased risk of exposure.

Workers who are involved in mining, smelting, or other industries that use arsenic are also at increased risk of exposure.

Health effects of arsenic

Exposure to arsenic can have a number of health effects, including:

* Cancer: Arsenic is a known carcinogen, and exposure to it has been linked to a number of types of cancer, including cancer of the skin, lungs, bladder, and kidney.

* Nervous system damage: Arsenic can damage the nervous system, causing symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness.

* Reproductive system damage: Arsenic can damage the reproductive system, causing problems such as infertility and miscarriage.

* Immune system damage: Arsenic can damage the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections.

Preventing exposure to arsenic

There are a number of things that you can do to reduce your exposure to arsenic:

* Drink filtered water: If you are concerned about arsenic levels in your drinking water, you can have your water tested and filtered.

* Eat less rice: If you are concerned about arsenic levels in rice, you can reduce your consumption of rice.

* Avoid contaminated air: If you live in an area with high levels of arsenic in the air, you can avoid spending time outdoors.

* Wear protective clothing: If you work in an industry that uses arsenic, you should wear protective clothing and follow safety precautions.

If you are concerned about your exposure to arsenic, you should talk to your doctor.