Arsenic exposure and environmental justice

Abstract

Arsenic exposure occurs mostly through consumption of contaminated groundwater. High concentrations of arsenic in drinking water have been identified in several countries of the world, and there could also be important differences in arsenic concentrations between regions within the same country. Arsenic exposure causes cancer of the skin, bladder, and lungs. Long-term arsenic exposure has also been associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, developmental effects, and neurotoxicity. Previous studies have suggested that arsenic exposure could also have important environmental justice implications, including for example, disparities in exposure, adverse health effects, and lack of adequate interventions. Furthermore, regions of the world where this problem is present may have yet to be identified because of the lack of surveillance, research, or technical capacities at the country or regional level. Have you observed the above-mentioned disparities in relation to arsenic exposure in your country? Are...