The new map of Argentine population exposed to arsenic in drinking water

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the population exposed to arsenic in Argentina, proposing a key risk indicator. By employing specific criteria selection, a systematic search of the published evidence on arsenic content in drinking water samples at the provincial level was carried out. Considering the limit recommended by the WHO – 10 μg/L – representativeness of evidence was calculated, as well as the percentage of exposed population (PEP) to high levels of arsenic. For this research, 61 useful publications were found and included in the analysis. They provide relevant data for 50% of the provinces, which represent 70% of the national population. The use of the PEP index, to denote the ‘percentage of population exposed’ to high arsenic, is proposed as a summary variable, to homogenize the information in the country, and in this way give it comparative value. Information has been systematized and variables identified that may be useful for analysis in eco-epidemiological studies, detailing the current situation of publications of arsenic in drinking water in Argentina.