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Living in poisoning environments: Invisible risks and human adaptation
Author(s) -
Arriaza Bernardo,
Amarasiriwardena Dulasiri,
Standen Vivien,
Yáñez Jorge,
Van Hoesen John,
Figueroa Leonardo
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
evolutionary anthropology: issues, news, and reviews
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.401
H-Index - 85
eISSN - 1520-6505
pISSN - 1060-1538
DOI - 10.1002/evan.21720
Subject(s) - adaptation (eye) , desert (philosophy) , arsenic , natural (archaeology) , human health , arsenic toxicity , ecology , geography , biology , environmental health , archaeology , chemistry , medicine , philosophy , organic chemistry , epistemology , neuroscience
This article describes the hidden natural chemical contaminants present in a unique desert environment and their health consequences on ancient populations. Currently, millions of people are affected worldwide by toxic elements such as arsenic. Using data gathered from Atacama Desert mummies, we discuss long‐term exposure and biocultural adaptation to toxic elements. The rivers that bring life to the Atacama Desert are paradoxically laden with arsenic and other minerals that are invisible and tasteless. High intake of these toxic elements results in severe health and behavioral problems, and even death. We demonstrate that Inca colonies, from Camarones 9 site, were significantly affected by chemical contaminants in their food and water. It appears however, some modern‐day Andean populations resist the elevated levels of arsenic exposure as a result of positive selection mediated via the arsenic methyltransferase enzyme and display more tolerance to high chemical doses. This article further debate the effects of natural pollution and biocultural adaptation of past populations.