Which pollutant may lead to 'Black Foot Disease?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

Bihar CET B.Ed Official Paper (Held On: 25 Jun, 2024)

Answer 1

The correct answer is Arsenic (As).

Key Points

Blackfoot disease is a severe peripheral vascular disease that leads to gangrene in the lower limbs.
It is primarily caused by the chronic consumption of arsenic-contaminated water.
The disease is prevalent in areas with high levels of arsenic in groundwater, particularly in parts of Taiwan, China, and Bangladesh.
Arsenic exposure can occur through drinking water, food, air, and industrial processes.
Long-term exposure to arsenic can also lead to other health issues, including skin lesions, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.

Additional Information

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in the Earth's crust.
Sources of arsenic exposure include contaminated water, certain foods, industrial processes, and mining activities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has set guidelines for arsenic levels in drinking water to mitigate health risks.
Arsenic poisoning can be acute or chronic, with chronic exposure being more common in regions with contaminated groundwater.
Methods to reduce arsenic exposure include using alternative water sources, water treatment technologies, and regular monitoring of water quality.