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1.3.2.2 Ingestion of Contaminated Geophagic Earths
ОглавлениеThe deliberate ingestion of geophagic earths such as clays and termite mounds, which is referred to as geophagy, may contribute to non-occupational exposure. Geophagy, which is practiced for various cultural and perceived health reasons, is common in several communities in Africa [10, 43]. For example, in Kenya, it is estimated that women consume 40 g per day of geophagic earths, contributing to iron intake of at least about nine times the maximum permissible daily intake [43]. High intake of toxic metals via geophagy has also been reported in other studies [44]. Although data pertaining to geophagy in serpentinitic geological systems are still missing, the intake of toxic contaminants could be higher in such environments compared to non-serpentinitic environments. This risk could be particularly higher among pregnant women and their unborn babies. This is because pregnant women have a high intake of geophagic earths, which is perceived to reduce anemia and nausea [45].