Arsenic in Drinking Water Linked to Diabetes in Mexico
Author Information
Author(s): Del Razo Luz M, García-Vargas Gonzalo G, Valenzuela Olga L, Castellanos Erika Hernández, Sánchez-Peña Luz C, Currier Jenna M, Drobná Zuzana, Loomis Dana, Stýblo Miroslav
Primary Institution: Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México DF, México
Hypothesis
Is there an association between chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic in drinking water and the prevalence of diabetes?
Conclusion
The study confirms a link between arsenic exposure in drinking water and an increased risk of diabetes, particularly associated with the toxic metabolite DMAsIII.
Supporting Evidence
- The prevalence of diabetes increased with higher arsenic levels in drinking water.
- Fasting plasma insulin and HOMA-IR were negatively associated with arsenic exposure.
- Urinary concentrations of DMAsIII were positively associated with diabetes risk.
Takeaway
Drinking water with arsenic can make people more likely to get diabetes, and one of the harmful substances made from arsenic might be causing this.
Methodology
The study used blood tests and urine samples to measure diabetes indicators and arsenic exposure in residents of Zimapán and Lagunera.
Potential Biases
Potential misclassification of diabetes status and lack of adjustment for social class may introduce bias.
Limitations
The study had a predominantly female population and relied on self-reported diabetes status, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
258 participants, including 147 from Zimapán and 111 from Lagunera, with a mix of ages and predominantly female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.05-1.22
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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