Scientists from Columbia University found that long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water increases the risk of heart disease by 42%. Research results It was published In the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.
98,250 teachers, other education personnel and nurses participated in the research. The scientists analyzed the volunteers’ habits and lifestyles and also collected data on where the subjects lived before the study began.
The researchers excluded people over 85 and those with a history of heart disease. They then compared the participants’ health data with information about arsenic levels in drinking water where they lived.
The results showed that people exposed to high levels of arsenic in their water for a decade or more were 42% more likely to develop heart disease. This association persisted even when other risk factors, such as high blood pressure, smoking, and low levels of physical activity, were taken into account.
Arsenic is a naturally occurring heavy metal that can be released into air, water, and soil. The highest concentrations in groundwater are observed in New England, the northern part of the Midwest and some western states of the United States. The main way metal penetrates the human body is through drinking water.
Scientists noted that exposure to even small doses of arsenic can lead to disruptions in the cardiovascular, immune and endocrine systems. People who use private wells without regular water quality monitoring are particularly at risk.
Previous scientists discovered There are toxic “forever chemicals” in bottled water around the world.
What are you thinking?
Source: Gazeta
Barbara Dickson is a seasoned writer for “Social Bites”. She keeps readers informed on the latest news and trends, providing in-depth coverage and analysis on a variety of topics.