An important feature of Finkelman’s work is its focus on how elements in geological materials actually reach people through specific exposure pathways.
More information on this topic is available in the Medical Geology section.
Domestic Exposure
A 2002 USGS record describes severe health problems in parts of China associated with domestic use of coals enriched in arsenic, fluorine, selenium and possibly mercury.
The example demonstrates that the way a geological material is used can strongly influence health outcomes.
Water and Organic Compounds
The same work discusses a proposed link between Balkan endemic nephropathy and organic compounds potentially leached from lignite into groundwater.
The methodological lesson is to trace dissolution and exposure pathways rather than focus only on the parent rock or mineral.
Lesson for Natural Mineral Products
Evaluation of natural products such as rock salt likewise benefits from considering quantity used, solubility, preparation and exposure route.
This prevents conclusions based solely on a list of minerals.
Related article: Robert Finkelman’s Trace-Element Research.
Sources
Rock Salt Brands and Supply Channels
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