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?
The document presents a systematic review examining the cardiovascular risks associated with low-to-moderate arsenic exposure. It focuses on how even small amounts of arsenic, often found in drinking water and other environmental sources, can contribute to cardiovascular diseases such as stroke, ischemic heart disease (IHD), and myocardial infarction (MI). The review compiles data from multiple studies to assess the impact of arsenic exposure at concentrations below 100 µg/L, a level not widely covered in previous research. It underscores the importance of understanding the subtle but cumulative health effects of arsenic, particularly in areas where contamination is common but not widely addressed.
Who is affected?
Populations in regions with arsenic contamination in drinking water or food are most affected by these findings. Communities in countries like Bangladesh, India, and parts of the United States, where arsenic levels in water exceed safe limits, are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, individuals in agricultural and industrial regions, where arsenic is introduced through pollution and waste, also face significant risks. Vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, may experience exacerbated health effects from arsenic exposure. Pregnant women and children are also particularly at risk, as arsenic can have long-term developmental and health impacts on the offspring.
Most important findings
The review highlights that even low-to-moderate arsenic exposure is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and ischemic heart disease. The data indicates a clear association between arsenic in drinking water and the incidence of these diseases. The findings also reveal a notable connection between arsenic exposure and myocardial infarction mortality, especially in men. Although the review emphasizes the risk of stroke and ischemic heart disease, it also acknowledges the growing concern over heart failure, with some studies showing suggestive evidence, although fewer studies have explored this outcome. The evidence suggests that arsenic exposure, even at levels below 100 µg/L, contributes significantly to cardiovascular risks, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Key implications
These findings stress the need for a reassessment of current arsenic exposure standards, particularly those related to drinking water. While many guidelines limit arsenic to 10 µg/L, the evidence suggests that even lower levels may be harmful. Regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), may need to tighten arsenic standards to better protect public health, especially in areas where arsenic concentrations in water are regularly found to exceed current limits. For the public health sector, these findings underscore the importance of developing more targeted interventions to mitigate exposure and educate communities at risk. The food and beverage industry must also be mindful of arsenic levels in their water sources, as they may have a direct impact on the health of consumers. Public health campaigns should focus on increasing awareness of the risks of arsenic exposure and advocating for stricter regulations and better water treatment solutions.
Citation
Gopang, M., Yazdi, M. D., Moyer, A., Smith, D. M., & Meliker, J. R. (2025). “Low-to-moderate arsenic exposure: A global systematic review of cardiovascular disease risks”. Environmental Health, 24, 29. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12940-025-01184-5
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.
