Arsenicosis (chronic arsenic poisoning from groundwater) in India is most prevalent in which states?
- A Kerala and Tamil Nadu
- B West Bengal, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh ✓
- C Rajasthan and Gujarat
- D Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand
Correct answer: B. West Bengal, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh
Explanation
Chronic arsenic poisoning from naturally occurring arsenic in alluvial groundwater is most prevalent in the Gangetic plains, particularly West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and parts of Assam and Manipur. The WHO permissible limit for arsenic in drinking water is 0.01 mg/L (10 µg/L). Clinical features include keratosis, hyperpigmentation, Mees' lines, and skin cancers.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
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