Medical geology

Using a portable XRF to determine contaminant concentrations in soil
Using a portable XRF to determine
contaminant concentrations in soil

This is study of the relationship between natural geological factors and health in man and animals, and the influence of ordinary environmental factors on the geographical distribution of such health problems. The team has a wide ranging research portfolio including

  • international studies on the geological controls on deficiency and toxicity of selenium and iodine in human health
  • measurement and spatial distribution of the bioaccessibility of potentially toxic elements (e.g. As, Pb, Cd) and organic substances (e.g. PAH and PCB) in soils. See Preservation of simulated stomach & intestinal fluids from the Unified BARGE Method
  • studies relating to the impacts of climate change on human and ecological health, particularly the effects of contaminant mobility resulting from extreme weather events such as flooding or increased temperatures
  • measurements of geogenic inputs to atmospheric particulate matter and their potential impact on human health
  • method development and associated studies related to the bio-monitoring of potentially toxic elements such as As in toenails, hair and urine

Medical Geology Conference March 2009

Raising the profile of Medical Geology with emphasis on Practical Applications.

Contact

Contact Dr Mark Cave for more information.