Question map
Which one of the following disease is caused due to presence of excess arsenic in water ?
Explanation
Chronic exposure to excess arsenic in drinking water, often found in contaminated groundwater in regions like the Ganges Delta, leads to severe health complications [1]. Arsenic is a known carcinogen, and long-term ingestion is strongly linked to the development of skin cancer, as well as cancers of the lungs and bladder [t1][t4]. Higher concentrations of arsenic are specifically noted for causing severe skin diseases and lesions [c2]. While emerging research suggests potential links between heavy metal exposure and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease [t2][t6], skin cancer remains the most established and direct clinical consequence of chronic arsenicosis [t1]. Other symptoms of arsenic poisoning include peripheral neuropathy, cognitive impairment, and cardiovascular issues [t5]. Therefore, among the given options, skin cancer is the primary disease caused by excess arsenic in water.
Sources
- [1] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 5: Environmental Pollution > 3. Hazards of ground water pollution: > p. 77