Author(s):

Arya, Arun Kumar and Shuchi Upadhyay

Abstract: The total concentration of arsenic in vegetables, fruits, grains and water samples was estimated by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Digestion was carried out with an HNO3-HClO4 mixture on hot plate at 60-120 degree Celsius respectively. Arsenic determination was performed by the standard addition method. The highest arsenic level was found in inner part of vegetables where moisture content is highest. This was found to be higher level than those recommended by WHO and Food Agricultural Organization limits. Arsenic is an element that raises much concern from both environmental and human health aspects. The incidence of arsenic contamination of vegetable samples and ground water samples has taken the dimension of epidemiological problem. Initially it enters into the human body through ingestion, inhalation or skin absorption. After entering into the body it is distributed into large number of organs including lungs, liver, kidney and skin. It is very difficult to diagnose early symptoms of arsenicosis because such non-specific symptoms may also be present in many other diseases. The correct diagnosis depends on awareness of the problem. Medicine used for remedy of arsenicosis has been found to be dissatisfactory. Melanosis may disappear but keratosis is not altered. The symptoms and signs may be reduced by improving the quality of drinking water.

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