Key benefits of Arsenic (As) testing
- Arsenic exposure tracking
- rice, seafood, and groundwater contamination assessment
- well-studied carcinogen monitoring
What is Arsenic (As)?
Arsenic is a metalloid found naturally in groundwater and accumulated in some crops - particularly rice. It exists in organic forms (in seafood) and inorganic forms (more toxic, from water and rice). Urinary arsenic reflects recent total arsenic exposure. Measured via ICP-MS.
Why is Arsenic (As) important?
Inorganic arsenic is classified as a known human carcinogen by IARC, with research at elevated chronic exposures spanning multiple organ systems. Groundwater in some regions contains high natural arsenic levels. Rice accumulates inorganic arsenic from water and soil. Regular monitoring may be particularly relevant for high-rice-consuming populations and those using well water.
What insights will I get?
Your urinary arsenic level reflects recent total arsenic exposure. Interpreting organic vs. inorganic arsenic speciation requires follow-up testing if elevated. Sources to review include drinking water source, rice consumption frequency, and seafood intake.
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Method: ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry) with creatinine normalization by Jaffe Reaction (CLIA 14D0646470); not cleared or approved by the FDA. Results in µg/g creatinine; reference intervals based on NHANES population data under non-provoked conditions. Not a stand-alone diagnosis; should be interpreted in clinical context.
