Introduction
Arsenic is a metal element and can be found in soil, water and food. Arsenic exposure is known to cause a variety of health problems, including cancer of the lung, liver and bladder. The most serious condition associated with arsenic poisoning is lung cancer. There is an increased risk of developing lung cancer in those who have been exposed to arsenic over many years.
What is Arsenic?
Arsenic is an element found in the environment. It can occur naturally in soil, water, and plants and can enter our bodies through drinking water, air pollution, plants and smoking. Arsenic is also produced when burning fossil fuels, such as coal. Arsenic is both a human and environmental health hazard and has been linked to a number of different types of cancer, including lung cancer.
How does Arsenic cause Lung Cancer?
The exact mechanism of how arsenic causes lung cancer is not known. Studies suggest that arsenic has a genotoxic effect, which means it can damage the DNA in our body’s cells. This damage can lead to the cells becoming abnormal. These abnormal cells can then continue to multiply and form a tumor in the lung.
Studies also suggest that arsenic may cause other changes in the body, such as disrupting hormones or through inflammation, that may increase the risk of developing lung cancer.
Who is at risk of developing Lung Cancer from Arsenic exposure?
Those with a history of long-term exposure to arsenic are at the highest risk of developing lung cancer. This includes individuals who are exposed to arsenic through water, soil or air pollution, or through working in industries that use arsenic. It is also possible to be exposed to small amounts of arsenic over time through food or drinking water, although this is less common.
In addition, those with a history of smoking are at even greater risk for developing lung cancer due to arsenic exposure. The combination of asbestos and arsenic is even more dangerous, as this increases the risk of developing lung cancer even more.
Conclusion
In summary, arsenic is a metal element found in the environment, and exposure to it can increase the risk of developing lung cancer. Those who have been exposed to arsenic in the past, especially through drinking water, are at the highest risk for developing this form of cancer. It is important to be aware of the potential risks and to take measures to reduce your exposure to arsenic as much as possible.
