Geology. Козлова Е.П. - 44 стр.

                                Geopathogenic Zones

       This notion is still ambivalent. Some experts attribute geopathogenic zones to
the heterogeneity of so far unknown fields; but others think they are engendered by
deep-seated geophysical and geochemical anomalies, which, directly or indirectly, act
upon biota’s condition. Most likely, geopathogenic zones are area where the
atmosphere, the hydrosphere, the lithosphere as well as the upper and lower mantle of
the earth – and possibly its core – display their characteristics in an unorthodox
fashion. In turn, geophysical anomalies are thought to be the specific characteristics
of corresponding fields – characteristics conditioned by geothermal effects,
gravitation magnetic and electric fields as well as by vibration and acoustic effects of
the lithosphere.
       Geochemical anomalies, the enhanced radiation background among them, are
often of focal occurrence. Such anomalies arise in situ at shallow mineral deposits
exhibiting relatively high radioactivity. This concerns not only respective ore bodies
but also rock with the enhanced concentration of boron, barium, beryllium,
chromium, nickel, lead and other elements whose isotopes are unstable. Also in this
category are anomalies caused by anthropogenic pollution in the process of ore
enrichment and commercial utilization. Geopathogenic zones occur not only at
deposits of high – toxicity compounds but also in the vicinity of mines – say, in
dumps and spoil heaps, in purification (sewage) works, and in aeration ponds.
        Geochemical factors are capable of inducing various pathologies. Some
chemical elements and compounds may be in excess, while others – all too scarce the
natural environment; in either case the effect may be harmful. Some elements are
highly toxic, especially beryllium, the main component of beryl. Its bright – green
transparent varieties are known as emerald – a precious stone dazzling in its beauty;
and another beryl variety is aquamarine, a transparent stone having a pale blue or
bluish – green color, also used as a gem. Beryllium is employed in the production of
superhard alloys for the atomic industry and aerospace technology. Unfortunately,
those who work with beryllium or live near beryllium – producing mills are exposed
to a higher risk of lung cancer.
        Chromium and arsenic are also a health hazard: chromium causes bronchial
cancer, and arsenic compounds induce locomotor diseases and lung cancer. High
toxicity is exhibited by cadmium, mercury, thallium and lead. An excess of cadmium
provokes atherosclerosis, hypertension, prostatic cancer and decay of bone tissue.
Mercury, being a potent mutagen has an adverse effect on heredity.
        Even taken at low concentrations, thallium affects the cardiovascular system;
it causes pathologies of joints as well as baldness. Its high concentrations interfere
with the function of the gastrointestinal tract, result in hallucinations, convulsions and
even death from respiratory paralysis. An excess of lead intoxicates the organisms
and may be responsible for malfunctions of the central nervous system, liver, kidneys
and the sex organs; lead is also a mutagen and destroys red blood cells.
        Besides native elements and compounds, we are now having quite an array of
artificially synthesized organic compounds like benzene that causes leukemia as well
as vinyl, chloride and bitumen’s that induce leukemias and liver malignancy.
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