“Arsenic”  A Hidden Threat Nearby: Department of Health Warns It May Be Found in Groundwater, Urges Water Quality Checks and Monitoring of Public Health Announcements

The Department of Health has revealed that it is closely monitoring the quality of water used for consumption, particularly river water and groundwater in high-risk areas. The agency is also continuously tracking food and environmental quality to ensure that arsenic levels remain within the safety standards set by the Ministry of Public Health. The public is advised that those who rely on groundwater should regularly test water quality and closely follow announcements from local public health authorities.

 

Dr. Amporn Benjaponpitak, Director-General of the Department of Health, explained that arsenic can be found in two forms: organic arsenic and inorganic arsenic. Organic arsenic is commonly found in living organisms, particularly aquatic and marine animals such as fish, shrimp, shellfish, crabs, and seaweed. These organisms can accumulate arsenic from the environment; however, this form generally has low toxicity and does not pose a health risk when consumed in normal amounts.

 

In contrast, inorganic arsenic poses a greater risk to human health. It can occur naturally in soil, rocks, and groundwater, and may also contaminate the environment through industrial and agricultural activities. Although small amounts may not cause immediate symptoms, long-term exposure and accumulation in the body can lead to serious health problems.

 

Dr. Amporn noted that arsenic can enter the human body through four main pathways:

1. Drinking contaminated water, especially groundwater in certain areas.

2. Consuming contaminated food, such as rice, vegetables, or aquatic animals that accumulate arsenic from the environment.

3. Inhaling dust or smoke from certain industrial processes.

4. Skin contact with contaminated environments.

 

Symptoms of arsenic exposure can occur in two forms. Acute exposure may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, and low blood pressure. Chronic or long-term exposure may result in skin darkening, dark spots on the palms and soles, numbness in the hands and feet, and increased risk of heart disease and neurological disorders. It may also raise the risk of certain cancers, including skin cancer, lung cancer, and bladder cancer. Arsenic is therefore considered a “silent threat,” as symptoms may not appear immediately but can accumulate and cause long-term illness.

 

In conclusion, Dr. Amporn emphasized that the Department of Health recognizes the importance of ensuring that water sources used by the public meet drinking water quality standards. Authorities have instructed local agencies that use river water or groundwater for water supply production to regularly test water quality in accordance with the Department of Health’s Drinking Water Quality Standards (2020).

 

People living near areas with potential arsenic contamination are advised to wash vegetables thoroughly before cooking, consume a variety of foods, and seek medical attention if persistent abnormal symptoms occur. Residents in high-risk areas should also closely follow updates from public health authorities, as awareness and prevention today are key to protecting the long-term health of individuals and their families.

 

 

Source : Thai Health Promotion Foundation