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Arsenic compounds and cancer

O Axelson

    Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health
    |September 1, 1980
    PubMed

    Insights

    Arsenic exposure is linked to lung, skin, and liver cancers in humans. Experimental studies show arsenic may inhibit DNA repair, potentially explaining conflicting cancer findings and cardiovascular risks.

    Area of Science:

    • Environmental Health
    • Toxicology
    • Carcinogenesis

    Background:

    • Epidemiological studies link arsenic exposure to various cancers, including lung, skin, and liver.
    • Arsenic exposure is associated with specific occupations (copper smelters, pesticide workers) and medical treatments (psoriasis).
    • Animal studies have largely failed to reproduce arsenic-induced carcinogenicity observed in humans.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To explore the mechanisms behind arsenic's carcinogenicity.
    • To reconcile conflicting findings between human epidemiological data and animal experimental data.
    • To investigate the potential role of DNA repair inhibition in arsenic's effects.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of epidemiological data on arsenic exposure and cancer incidence.
    • Analysis of experimental animal studies investigating arsenic carcinogenicity.
    • Examination of in vitro and in vivo evidence for arsenic's effect on DNA repair pathways.

    Main Results:

    • Human studies show clear associations between arsenic exposure and lung, skin, and liver cancers.
    • Animal models have demonstrated limited success in replicating arsenic's carcinogenic effects.
    • Experimental evidence suggests arsenic interferes with DNA repair mechanisms.

    Conclusions:

    • Arsenic's inhibition of DNA repair may explain discrepancies in carcinogenicity findings.
    • Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for assessing arsenic-related health risks.
    • Further research is needed to fully elucidate arsenic's impact on human health, including cardiovascular effects.

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