Which of the following is a disease caused by Arsenic as a pollutant?

Correct option is B

Black Foot Disease is caused by chronic arsenic poisoning, primarily due to the contamination of drinking water with arsenic. This condition is characterized by ischemia (reduced blood flow) in the lower extremities, leading to blackening and eventual tissue death. It is common in areas where groundwater is polluted with high levels of arsenic, particularly in regions of Bangladesh, India, and Taiwan. Prolonged exposure to arsenic can also lead to skin lesions, cancer, and other systemic effects.

Key Points:

● Arsenic poisoning occurs due to contaminated groundwater or industrial pollution.
● Black Foot Disease leads to vascular damage and necrosis of tissues in the feet.
● It is more prevalent in regions with poor water treatment infrastructure.
● Chronic exposure to arsenic also increases the risk of skin, lung, and bladder cancers.
● Preventive measures include using arsenic-free water sources and improved filtration technologies.

Additional Knowledge:

• (a) Parkinson's Disease: A neurodegenerative disorder caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons, unrelated to arsenic exposure.
• (c) Hepatitis A: A viral infection affecting the liver, caused by the Hepatitis A virus, not arsenic.
• (d) Huntington's Disease: A genetic disorder involving progressive brain degeneration, unrelated to arsenic.