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Pablo Martínez-Juarez
WriterEnvironmental economist and science journalist. For a few years, I worked as a researcher on the economics of climate change adaptation. Now I write about that and much more.
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WriterAn established tech journalist, I entered the world of consumer tech by chance in 2018. In my writing and translating career, I've also covered a diverse range of topics, including entertainment, travel, science, and the economy.
Arsenic is one of the most well-known toxic elements. While the presence of traces of arsenic in the rice you consume may sound alarming, it currently poses health risks only at very high intake levels. However, this situation could change in the future.
Increasing concentrations. A recent study published in The Lancet Planetary Health indicates that rising temperatures and increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere may enhance arsenic uptake in rice crops. This could lead to a higher arsenic presence in rice dishes.
This change could have significant implications by 2050. The increased concentration of arsenic in rice may particularly affect populations in Asia, where rice constitutes a substantial portion of the diet.
“Our results suggest that this increase in arsenic levels could significantly elevate the incidence of heart disease, diabetes, and other non-cancer health effects,” co-author Lewis Ziska explained in a press release.
The risk of arsenic. Arsenic is classified as a heavy metal, although it chemically belongs to semi-metals. The level of risk associated with its presence depends on several factors, including the molecular structure where it occurs. Organic structures are typically less harmful than inorganic ones. Obviously, the risk is also influenced by the dose of arsenic encountered.
The health risks tied to arsenic involve its accumulation in the human body. In very young children, arsenic exposure can lead to developmental problems. In adults, it’s been linked to skin disorders, as well as bladder and lung cancer.
28 types of rice. The research team analyzed how rising temperatures and increased carbon dioxide can affect rice. The study examined 28 different types of rice, modeling the changes in their inorganic arsenic content over a decade. The team estimated the potential health impacts of arsenic accumulation in populations across seven Asian countries by 2050.
The findings revealed a significant rise in cancer cases, particularly bladder cancer. Among the countries studied, China stands out, potentially facing more than 13 million new cancer cases linked to arsenic exposure.
All is not lost. Researchers also proposed several measures to mitigate the future impacts of arsenic, such as hybridizing plant varieties to develop strains that absorb less arsenic. Other suggestions include improving soil management practices in rice fields and enhancing food processing methods.
Additionally, experts recommend consumer-focused measures. They believe that education and monitoring could be crucial in reducing the effects of increased arsenic levels. Researchers also caution that frequent alerts regarding arsenic levels in rice could lead to complacency. A problem that seems non-existent today could become real tomorrow.
Image | Ali Mkumbwa
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