Geochemistry, soils and cardiovascular diseases

Area of Science:

• Environmental geochemistry
• Public health
• Cardiovascular epidemiology

Background:

• Geochemical variations in local environments are linked to disease distribution.
• Cardiovascular diseases exhibit geographic patterns, suggesting environmental influences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the hypothesis that trace element imbalances in rocks, soils, and water contribute to chronic diseases, particularly cardiovascular conditions.
• To explore the association between geographic geochemical differences and cardiovascular disease prevalence.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of geographic distribution of cardiovascular diseases in relation to soil trace element content.
• Correlation of cardiovascular mortality rates with water mineralization levels (soft vs. hard water).

Main Results:

• Higher cardiovascular mortality rates observed in areas with soils deficient in essential trace elements.
• Areas with soft water supplies exhibit increased cardiovascular pathology compared to areas with hard water.
• A consistent negative association between water hardness and cardiovascular disease prevalence across diverse countries.

Conclusions:

• Trace element deficiencies or excesses in the environment are potential etiological factors for chronic cardiovascular diseases.
• Geochemical factors, including soil composition and water hardness, play a significant role in cardiovascular health outcomes.
• Environmental geochemistry offers insights into the geographic disparities of cardiovascular disease and informs public health strategies.