Chronic arsenic exposure in Chumbivilcas, Cusco, Peru: magnitude and risk factors in the general population, 2024
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objectives: To determine the prevalence and factors associated with high arsenic exposure in the adult population of the province of Chumbivilcas in Cusco, Peru 2024. Materials and methods: Analytical cross-sectional study in 370 adults selected through stratified cluster probability sampling by district. The urinary arsenic concentration was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and adjusted for creatinine; high exposure was defined as a concentration ≥20 μg As/g of creatinine. Sociodemographic and occupational characteristics, epidemiological history of exposure, and environmental factors were evaluated as potential associated factors. Adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were estimated using Poisson regression models with a log link. Results: The prevalence of high arsenic exposure was 68.2% (95% CI: 61.9-73.9). Exposure at work was associated with a higher prevalence of high arsenic (aPR 1.29; 95% CI: 1.07-1.56), as was the consumption of spring water (aPR 1.19; 95% CI: 1.01-1.40). Exposure at home (aPR 0.83; 95% CI: 0.69-0.99) and the respiratory route (aPR=0.82; 95% CI: 0.72-0.92) showed a lower prevalence of high arsenic. Conclusions: The adult population of Chumbivilcas presented a high prevalence of arsenic exposure. Exposure at work and the use of spring water were associated with a higher prevalence. Studies incorporating environmental measurements are required to guide surveillance and prevention actions.
Language: English
Subfield: Environmental Chemistry
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7220425242