Abstract

TOMMASO, Tosiani. Pathologies associated with the natural distribution of se, ca and mg on the earth crust. INCI [online]. 2008, vol.33, n.3, pp.172-178. ISSN 0378-1844.

The distribution of the elements in the earth surface depends on the properties of the minerals containing the elements, the lithology and the weathering processes. The natural distribution and concentration of trace elements such as Ca, Mg and Se in water, soil and sediments, have been recognized as important factors in maintaining good health. Medical Geology is the interdisciplinary science that studies the influence of the natural environmental geologic factors and geologic processes on animal and human health. It has been shown that the deficiency of Ca, Mg and Se has detrimental effects on the health of populations worldwide, independently of their social condition. In Venezuela, the statistical distribution of the primary causes of mortality could partially be determined by regional geologic factors studied by Medical Geology, which may not have been detected and/or recognized by the public health and biomedical communities. Understanding the potential of this discipline for dealing with a wide variety of environmental health problems is of importance in developing a regional and national public health agenda

Keywords : Agua; Calcio; Geología Médica; Geoquímica; Magnesio; Patología; Selenio.