Arsenic

Overview

Arsenic is a naturally occurring chemical element that can be found in the environment through both natural sources and human activities. While trace amounts of arsenic are present in air, water, and soil, elevated levels in the body can indicate harmful exposure from contaminated drinking water, certain foods, industrial processes, or occupational hazards. Arsenic exists in different forms, with inorganic arsenic being more toxic than organic forms. The body processes arsenic through the liver and eliminates it primarily through urine, making urine testing the most reliable method for detecting recent exposure. Chronic arsenic exposure has been linked to various health problems including skin changes, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Testing for arsenic levels helps healthcare providers assess potential environmental or occupational exposure, investigate unexplained symptoms that might be related to arsenic toxicity, and monitor individuals who may be at higher risk due to their living or working conditions. Since arsenic can accumulate in hair and nails over time, these samples may also be used to detect longer-term exposure patterns.

Testing Levels:

• High ( ) -
  
  
• Mid -
  
  
• Low ( ) -

Why We Test Arsenic

Testing for arsenic levels is important because this toxic heavy metal can accumulate in the body through contaminated water, food, or occupational exposure, leading to serious health complications including skin disorders, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Arsenic testing helps identify chronic exposure before severe symptoms develop, allowing for early intervention and source elimination. Regular monitoring may be particularly valuable for individuals living in areas with known groundwater contamination, those working in industries involving arsenic compounds, or people experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms, skin changes, or gastrointestinal issues that could indicate arsenic poisoning.

What Affects It

Factors influencing arsenic levels include occupational exposure (mining, smelting, pesticide manufacturing), environmental contamination from industrial activities, consumption of contaminated drinking water or food (particularly rice and seafood from polluted areas), and use of arsenic-containing medications or traditional remedies. Geographic location, with higher levels in areas with natural arsenic deposits or industrial pollution, significantly impacts exposure. Individual factors such as kidney function, which affects arsenic elimination, genetic variations in metabolism, smoking, and certain dietary patterns can also influence arsenic biomarker levels.

How to Improve

For high arsenic levels, the primary focus should be on identifying and eliminating exposure sources such as contaminated drinking water, certain foods (rice, seafood), occupational hazards, and some traditional medicines. Installing water filtration systems, diversifying diet away from high-arsenic foods, and ensuring proper workplace safety measures are essential. Supporting the body's natural detoxification through adequate hydration, consuming foods rich in selenium and sulfur compounds (garlic, onions, cruciferous vegetables), and maintaining optimal liver function can help reduce arsenic burden. Regular testing of water sources and periodic biomonitoring ensure arsenic levels remain within safe ranges and help prevent long-term health complications.

Common Name: Arsenic