Trivalent chromium, in atherosclerosis and diabetes.

The known effects of trivalent chromium (Cr) in lowering blood levels of low density lipoproteins (LDL), raising high density lipoproteins (HDL) and improving glucose tolerance are summarised. Chromium deficiency cannot easily be established by direct means, but can be inferred by the reversal of symptoms and signs following the administration of trivalent chromium. This evidence can be supported by knowledge or suspicion of a deficiency in the diet, common in those who use highly refined cereal foods. It is considered that the beneficial effects of chromium repletion are now so well established and the trivalent form is so free of toxicity that it should now be used in clinical medicine for the benefit of those with some forms of diabetes and its complications and those suffering from atherosclerosis. Of perhaps more importance is the public health aspect, since most chromium is discarded in the cereal refinement process, we now have added evidence for a return to the diets in which complex carbohydrates predominated. In those who refuse or are unable to do this, possibly the addition of chromium to their drinking water may be of value.

On living in an arsenical atmosphere (Part 2). Clinical observations, animal experiments and ecological problems.

Humans and other animals living in an arsenic polluted atmosphere appear to absorb very little through their lungs, but absorb a varying quantity through the gut. A measure of human absorbtion is reflected in that excreted in the urine, but the amount excreted correlates poorly with clinical toxicity. Symptoms of toxicity my exist at as low a level as 0.25 ppm, with clearing of the problems when the patient is treated with BAL. On the other hand, people excreting well over 1 ppm may be free of any symptoms or signs. There is an indication that arsenic does not pass from the human mother for foetus or infant, either through the placenta or through the milk. Experimental animals living in an arsenical atmosphere thrive if fed uncontaminated food, but die rapidly if fed herbage gleaned from the contaminated area. The countryside subtended by atmospheric arsenical pollution becomes seriously ecologically down graded, with high arsenic levels in soil and on foliage. Most of the flora fail to thrive, while there is virtual disappearance of the natural fauna. Once the pollution has ceased, it would appear that the arsenic is rapidly leached away, with a return to ecological normality this recovery was surprisingly rapid and complete. There is statutory provision for closure of polluting industry. Indecision, unwillingness to cut off a source of national wealth, the question of employment, and an apparent lack of serious human toxicity allowed the continuation of the mining and roasting operation until the exhaustion of a payable orebody.

Handicapping and genetic disorders in Zimbabwean institutions: a diagnostic survey.

A diagnostic survey was undertaken in twelve Zimbabwean institutions for deaf, crippled and mentally handicapped individuals. A total of 1396 persons were evaluated of whom 885 were deaf, 356 physically disabled and 155 were mentally retarded. Acquired causes formed the largest aetiological group throughout the survey, but a high frequency of inherited crippling disorders was encountered (125 individuals). Down Syndrome accounted for almost one third of children with mental handicap. Undifferentiated autosomal recessive deafness was found in 87 persons, most of whom were from the Shona people.

Nutritional status of an urban community in Zimbabwe.

PIP: The rural population of many developing countries show an association between poor health and malnutrition, but little information is available on the urban communities. To investigate nutritional status there, the researchers chose Luveve, a black township of Zimbabwe. The heads of the household from each of 70 blocks were interviewed and the circumference of their families' mid upper arms were measured. Of the households visited, incomes ranged from US$30 to $300 per month. Food supplies were purchased from a grocer; the majority also maintained a vegetable garden. Diets were found to consist primarily of refined cereals, vegetables, soft drinks, and some milk and eggs. As regards infant feeding, the 66 mothers interviewed reported weaning their babies from the breast by 5 months. On the basis of arm circumference measurements, the population was not found to be undernourished. In fact, gross obesity was observed in 50% of the adults and many preschool children. Subnutrition was reported in only 3 members of the community. These measures vary considerably from those of the rural populations. The most significant finding was widespread obesity probably due to the high consumption of refined, starchy products. This could translate into obesity related diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.^ieng