Study reveals alarming connection between arsenic exposure and heart disease
A new study has raised concerns over the potential health risks posed by arsenic in drinking water, linking long-term exposure to the metal with an increased risk of heart disease. Researchers from Columbia University examined the health records of 100,000 Californians over 23 years and found that prolonged exposure to arsenic in tap water could significantly raise the likelihood of developing heart disease.
The study found that people exposed to high levels of arsenic for a decade or more were 42% more likely to develop coronary artery disease. Even those exposed to levels below the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) current limit of 10 parts per billion (ppb) faced an elevated risk, prompting calls for a re-evaluation of safety standards.
Research findings prompt review of safety limits
The study’s lead author, Dr. Tiffany Sanchez, an environmental and molecular epidemiologist, emphasized the significance of the findings. “Our results are novel and encourage a renewed discussion of current policy and regulatory standards,” she said, suggesting that the current arsenic limit in drinking water may not adequately protect public health.
The research, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, revealed that individuals exposed to arsenic levels between one and ten ppb were 5-20% more likely to develop ischemic heart disease, which is the leading cause of heart attacks. This risk rose sharply for those exposed to levels above the EPA’s limit, leading to a 42% increased risk of coronary artery disease.
Arsenic exposure widespread across the U.S.
Arsenic is a naturally occurring metal that seeps into water sources through the Earth’s crust. It is found in high concentrations in groundwater in parts of New England, the northern Midwest, and areas of the western U.S., including California. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, around 2.5 million Americans may get their drinking water from private wells contaminated with arsenic.
Those who rely on private wells and do not test for arsenic are at a much higher risk than individuals served by municipal water systems, which provide drinking water to 90% of Americans. The EPA regulates the amount of arsenic allowed in public water supplies, setting the maximum limit at 10 micrograms per liter. However, this study indicates that even lower levels may pose health risks.
Heart disease risk linked to long-term arsenic exposure
Ischemic heart disease, also known as coronary artery disease (CAD), occurs when blood flow to the heart is restricted due to plaque buildup or blood clots in the arteries. This condition is a leading cause of heart attacks. The study’s data showed that prolonged exposure to arsenic in water was specifically linked to coronary artery disease but did not show a clear link to other cardiovascular diseases, such as strokes.
Researchers found that people exposed to low levels of arsenic for over ten years faced an 18-20% increased risk of developing ischemic heart disease. The findings suggest that even relatively low arsenic exposure over a prolonged period can have serious health consequences.
Experts urge further research and review of public health standards
While the study establishes a concerning connection between arsenic and heart disease, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved. Some studies in animals suggest that arsenic may trigger inflammation, affecting the structure of blood vessels near the heart and leading to long-term damage.
Dr. Sanchez believes the findings should serve as a foundation for further studies. “We believe that the data and methods developed in this study can be used to bolster and inform future studies and can be extended to evaluate other drinking water exposures and health outcomes,” she said.
What can be done to reduce arsenic exposure?
For those concerned about arsenic in their drinking water, using reverse osmosis systems, activated alumina filters, or anion exchange resins may help reduce the risk. Popular filtration brands, such as Brita, are generally not effective at removing arsenic. Homeowners using private wells are also encouraged to test their water regularly for arsenic and other contaminants.
With millions of Americans potentially exposed to arsenic-tainted drinking water, this study has sparked a call to re-examine current safety regulations and ensure that public health protections are up to date.