Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. 
Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. What was issued?
This study examined the prevalence of arsenic-induced skin lesions in Ethiopia, specifically in the Adami Tulu Jido Kombolcha district. It utilized a community-based cross-sectional study design involving 403 participants from June 2022. The research aimed to assess the health impacts of arsenic exposure, primarily focusing on skin lesions such as keratosis, hyperpigmentation, and hyperkeratosis. The study found that well water consumption, smoking, and chewing khat were significant factors contributing to the prevalence of arsenicosis in the region.
Who is affected?
The study primarily affects populations living in areas with high arsenic concentrations in groundwater, particularly in rural regions like Adami Tulu Jido Kombolcha. Populations using well water for domestic purposes, smokers, and khat chewers are more likely to experience arsenic-induced skin lesions. These groups are at heightened risk due to their exposure to arsenic through drinking water and lifestyle factors. This study also provides valuable data for public health officials and stakeholders involved in arsenic exposure mitigation and awareness campaigns.
Most important findings
The study revealed a prevalence of arsenic-induced skin lesions (arsenicosis) of 2.2%, with the most common symptoms being keratosis (55.6%), hyperpigmentation (33.3%), and hyperkeratosis (11.1%). The research identified several key factors contributing to arsenicosis, including the consumption of groundwater from shallow and deep wells, smoking, and chewing khat. Multivariate analysis showed that people consuming well water were 1.86 times more likely to develop arsenicosis compared to those who did not consume well water. Smoking and khat chewing were also identified as significant risk factors.
Key implications
The findings underscore the need for targeted health interventions in areas with high arsenic exposure, especially in rural districts relying on well water. Public health policies should focus on improving access to safe drinking water and raising awareness of the risks associated with smoking and chewing khat. The study highlights the importance of monitoring arsenic levels in groundwater and adopting preventive measures. Furthermore, it calls for further research into arsenic-related health risks, particularly in regions with limited data on arsenic exposure, like Ethiopia.
Citation
Demissie, S., Mekonen, S., Awoke, T., Teshome, B., & Mengistie, B. (2023). Prevalence of arsenic-induced skin lesions and associated factors in Ethiopia: Community-based study. Toxicology Reports, 11, 153. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxrep.2023.07.007
Arsenic is a naturally occurring metalloid that ranks first on the ATSDR toxic substances list. Inorganic arsenic contaminates water, rice and consumer products, and exposure is linked to cardiovascular disease, cognitive deficits, low birth weight and cancer. HMTC’s stringent certification applies ALARA principles to protect vulnerable populations.
