Connecting
Arsenic with Type 2 Diabetes
[Posted 09/03/2008]
The
August 20 issue of JAMA describes an analysis
of NHANES data that links arsenic with type 2
diabetes. NHANES (National Health and Nutrition
Examination Survey) is a government-conducted survey
from 2003-2004.
The urine collected from 788 adults was tested for
arsenic levels. After adjusting for diabetes risk
factors and biomarkers of seafood intake (i.e.,
arsenobetaine), participants identified with type 2
diabetes had a 26% higher level of total arsenic
contained in their urine.
Arsenic may impact insulin uptake and insulin
sensitivity, as well as contribute to oxygen-related
cell damage, inflammation, and cell death.
Millions of people worldwide are exposed to
inorganic arsenic through contaminated drinking
water. Inorganic arsenic is already known to have
carcinogenic, cardiovascular, developmental, and
reproductive effects. Organic arsenic (arsenobetaine)
is found in seafood and is considered non-toxic.
Related Links:
Summary of JAMA Article
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