Geogenic diseases and their origins

Some elements are essential for the human body and other organisms. Iron in hemoglobin, and phosphorus and calcium in the structure of teeth and bones, play fundamental roles. However, certain compounds such as nitrates and elements like mercury, arsenic, lead, and cadmium are harmful to human health. When these elements enter the body by any means, they can cause disease. Sometimes, due to mining activities and sometimes because of natural mineralization within the Earth, these toxic elements enter the human body.

Arsenic typically enters the body through arsenic-contaminated water, leading to keratosis of the palms and soles, and in advanced stages, it can result in skin cancer.

Cadmium exposure causes bone deformity, bone softening, and leads to Itai-Itai disease.

Long-term exposure to mercury—through ingestion (water and food) or dermal contact—causes damage to the nervous, digestive, and immune systems.

Fluorine is an essential element, but both deficiency and excess can cause disease. Its primary source and pathway into the body is through drinking water. Fluorine deficiency in the diet has long been recognized as a major cause of tooth decay, while excessive intake and accumulation lead to fluorosis, resulting in yellowing and mottling of the teeth.

Selenium deficiency causes impaired muscle development, while its excessive accumulation leads to dermatological lesions.