Health risk assessment due to the presence of arsenic in water intended for human consumption in the towns of Sampacho, Las Vertientes and Rio Cuarto, province of Cordoba, Argentina
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63207/ai.v8i16.175Keywords:
arsenic, genotoxicity, micronuclei, carcinogenesis, biomarkersAbstract
This study assessed the impact of chronic exposure to arsenic in drinking water on biochemical and genotoxic biomarkers in populations from Sampacho, Las Vertientes, and Río Cuarto, Córdoba province, Argentina. Arsenic concentrations ranged from 0.010 to 0.25 mg/L, exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended limit (0.01 mg/L) in several cases. A significant correlation was found between higher arsenic levels and increased micronucleus frequency in lymphocytes (CBMN) and buccal mucosa, indicating genotoxic damage. These findings align with previous studies demonstrating arsenic’s capacity to induce chromosomal alterations and oxidative damage. Although no significant differences were observed in enzymatic biomarkers, results highlight the utility of CBMN as an early indicator of exposure and genetic damage. The correlation between arsenic concentration in water and micronucleus frequency underscores the need for monitoring, prevention, and removal strategies, considering not only waterborne but also dietary exposure. These results provide relevant evidence on the carcinogenic risk associated with chronic arsenic exposure, reinforcing the importance of reducing its concentration in drinking water.
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