Human geophagy (soil ingestion): Biochemical functions and Potential Health Implications

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (peer-reviewed)peer-review

Abstract

Geophagy (soil ingestion) has been a subject of intrigue in science for many years. In this chapter, we collate, interpret and analyse existing research findings in Africa to improve our understanding of the prevalence, biochemical functions and human health implications of soil ingestion. Geophagy is most prevalent among women and children in sub-Saharan Africa, especially the tropical regions. Established biochemical functions of geophagy include absorption of dietary and bacterial toxins related to gastrointestinal disturbances and supplementation of nutrients like iron, zinc and calcium. The notable importance of geophagy includes the presence of potentially harmful elements (PHEs) including lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic. These PHEs can have adverse human health implications such as disruption of the endocrine and estrogenic properties, the risk of cancer, delay of brain development in children and anaemia. Pathogens in geophagic materials can cause transmission of geo-helminths and intestinal parasites, which could lead to toxocariasis. Indices such as carcinogenic risk, hazard quotient (HQ), hazard index (HI) and permitted maximum tolerable daily intake (PMTDI) are used for risk assessment of geophagic materials. Characterisation of geophagic materials would prove valuable to geophagists as the continent strives towards the UN sustainable development goal of good health and wellbeing and improved nutrition for all.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHealth and Medical Geography in Africa
EditorsYemi Adewoyin
Place of PublicationSwitzerland
PublisherSpringer Nature Switzerland AG
Chapter17
Pages367–385
Number of pages18
ISBN (Electronic)978-3-031-41268-4
ISBN (Print)978-3-031-41267-7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 31 2023

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