The Dangerous Toxin: Arsenic

http://www.irinnews.org/report/94734/analysis-when-aid-meets-arsenic-nepal

Arsenic is an element naturally found in the Earth’s crust and can be found in various ionic states such as As 3+ and As 5+ (Dangic, 2007). This element has the ability to seep into groundwater, and can also be taken up by most crops (Dangic, 2007). Along with impacting the quality of Nepal’s water and produce, arsenic affects the health of Nepal’s population (Dangic, 2007). There has not been strong evidence provided indicating that arsenic in its organic forms impacts Nepal’s health, but there is an abundance of proof indicating that the inorganic form of arsenic could act similar to a carcinogen (Dangic, 2007). There is a strong correlation between exposure to large amounts of arsenic and the health of a person’s skin and respiratory system (Dangic, 2007).