The role of geochemistry in environmental and epidemiological studies in developing countries

The effects of chemicals in the environment on the health of man and animals pre a matter of increasing public concern. Many developing countries are particularly liable to trace-element toxicities and deficiencies because of local geological, climatic and socio-economic conditions, and these problems are now compounded by the consequences of land degradation, pollution, urbanisation and industrialisation resulting from rapid economic and population growth. Recent work by the British Geological Survey illustrates the value of geochemistry in identifying environmental and health problems resulting from trace-element imbalances or contamination; and in formulating strategies to reduce their impact. An integrated and effective approach to these problems; requires (I) the availability worldwide of regional geochemical data to the standards recommended by the IUGS Working Group on Global Geochemical Baselines and (2) a thorough understanding of the behaviour of the chemical elements in the environment and their pathways from rocks and soils to crops, animals and man.