The effects of arsenic at high concentrations in the body

Arsenic is a metalloid element that occurs naturally in the earth's crust. It comes in two forms - organic and inorganic. The inorganic form is found in water and soil and is the most toxic and dangerous to human health. Arsenic is also used industrially in a variety of products, including pesticides, wood preservatives and semiconductors. Humans can therefore be exposed to arsenic through occupational contact, polluted air, or through the consumption of contaminated food and water.

What can cause elevated concentrations of arsenic?

Arsenic exposure in Sweden is generally low thanks to strict regulations and effective monitoring of drinking water quality. Most municipal waterworks supply water with arsenic levels well below the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended limit of 10 micrograms per litre. Despite the overall low risk, elevated arsenic levels can occur in private wells, especially in areas with specific geology where the bedrock naturally contains higher levels of arsenic.

According to investigations from Sweden's Geological Survey (SGU), up to 5–10% of private wells may have arsenic levels that exceed recommended limit values. This means that thousands of households could potentially be exposed to higher arsenic levels without being aware of it. In addition to exposure to arsenic through drinking water, there are also other sources;

• Contaminated drinking water: The most common cause globally.
• High consumption of rice: Especially if the rice is grown in arsenic-rich water.
• Work environment: Exposure in industries that handle arsenic.
• Tobacco smoking: Tobacco may contain traces of arsenic.

How does arsenic affect the body? Symptoms and conditions caused by elevated levels

Understanding how arsenic affects the body is crucial to taking preventive measures. Being aware of potential sources of arsenic exposure, such as contaminated drinking water and certain foods, can reduce the risk of serious health effects. Regular water quality testing and blood tests can help detect and manage elevated arsenic levels in the body. When arsenic enters the body, it can affect several different organs and cause symptoms.

Long-term exposure to inorganic arsenic has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including skin, lung, bladder and liver cancer. Arsenic affects cells' DNA and can cause genetic mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), arsenic is one of the most potent carcinogens in our environment. Studies have shown that even low levels of arsenic over time can increase the incidence of cancer in the population.

Arsenic can damage blood vessels and the heart, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Exposure to arsenic has been shown to lead to high blood pressure and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). It affects the endothelial cells that line the inside of the blood vessels, which can result in impaired vascular function and inflammatory processes. Epidemiological studies have found a correlation between high arsenic levels in drinking water and increased mortality from cardiovascular diseases.

Arsenic exposure can lead to nerve damage that causes numbness, pain and weakness in the extremities, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. In children, arsenic can affect cognitive development and behavior, which can result in learning difficulties and poorer school performance. Studies have also indicated that arsenic exposure can affect the neurotransmitter system and brain development, which can have long-term effects on neurological health.

Studies have shown a link between arsenic exposure and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Arsenic can affect the beta cells of the pancreas that produce insulin, as well as interfere with insulin signaling in the body. This can lead to insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance. Research has found that populations with high levels of arsenic in their drinking water have a higher prevalence of diabetes.

Symptoms may include changes in skin pigmentation, such as dark spots (hyperpigmentation) or light spots (hypopigmentation), and hardening (hyperkeratosis) on the palms and soles. These skin changes are often early signs of chronic arsenic exposure. In some cases, long-term exposure can lead to the development of skin lesions and ulcers, which in turn can develop into skin cancer if left untreated.

Arsenic can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. It can inhibit the activity of white blood cells and affect the production of antibodies. This means that the body has a harder time fighting bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. In addition, arsenic exposure can affect immune regulation, potentially leading to autoimmune diseases where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues.