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[Arsenic - Poison or medicine?]
Karolina Kulik-Kupka1, Aneta Koszowska2, Anna Brończyk-Puzoń2
1Śląski Uniwersytet Medyczny w Katowicach / Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland (Wydział Zdrowia Publicznego w Bytomiu, Zakład Profilaktyki Chorób Żywieniowozależnych / School of Public Health in Bytom, Department of Nutrition Related Prevention). karolina_kulik@interia.pl.
Medycyna Pracy
|April 6, 2016
Summary
Arsenic (As) is a toxic element with a dual nature, serving as both a poison and a vital medicine. This review highlights its medical applications and the critical need for monitoring environmental arsenic exposure to prevent health issues.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Medical Chemistry
Context:
- Arsenic (As) is a naturally occurring element found in soil and water, leading to its presence in food products.
- Long-term exposure to arsenic can cause severe health problems, including liver damage and myocardial changes.
- The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies arsenic as a carcinogen, yet it is used in cancer treatment.
Purpose:
- To review 2015 publications on arsenic's dual role as a poison and medicine.
- To consolidate information on arsenic's historical and current medical applications.
- To emphasize the importance of monitoring arsenic levels in environmental media and food.
Summary:
- Arsenic has been historically used to treat various diseases, including diabetes, psoriasis, syphilis, skin ulcers, and joint diseases.
- Currently, arsenic is crucial in treating acute promyelocytic leukemia and other neoplastic diseases, showcasing its specific therapeutic effects.
- The review covers arsenic's presence in the environment, its toxicological effects, and the necessity of establishing standards for its presence in food and monitoring occupational exposure.
Impact:
- Highlights the specific and contrasting effects of arsenic, necessitating careful risk-benefit assessment in its medical applications.
- Underscores the critical importance of environmental monitoring and regulatory standards to mitigate health risks associated with arsenic exposure.
- Provides a comprehensive overview of arsenic's multifaceted nature, informing public health strategies and medical practices.
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