Reducing Arsenic Exposure Lowers Chance of Dying

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element. It’s found in soil, water, and air. Long-term exposure can cause health problems. Millions of people rely on water sources with unsafe levels of arsenic. A new study showed that reducing arsenic exposure can lower the chances of death from cancer and heart disease.

The study tracked adults living in Bangladesh. Researchers measured the levels of arsenic in participants’ drinking water and urine. They checked levels multiple times over 20 years. During those years, a mitigation program labeled unsafe wells. The government also installed deeper wells with less arsenic. The scientists tracked deaths from cancer and heart disease over the two decades.

Participants’ arsenic levels dropped by over one-half on average. Their chances of dying from cancer and heart disease also changed. Those whose arsenic levels dropped were less likely to die. People whose exposures rose over time had a higher risk of death. Some participants’ arsenic levels started out high but ended low. They were half as likely to die than people whose levels remained high.

“Our research suggests that improved access to low-arsenic water, periodic testing, and clear signage to mark safer water are useful tools to help improve long-term health around the world,” says Dr. Yu Chen at NYU Langone Health.