(August 19, 2008 - Insidermedicine) Exposure to arsenic is linked with an increased risk for type 2 diabetes, according to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Here are some facts about arsenic:

•    It is a metal that can bind with other elements to form a number of poisonous compounds.

•    Arsenic is widely found in the earth's crust, which means it often finds its way into groundwater used as a source of drinking water.

•    Arsenic is used widely in industry and is produced by the combustion of fossil fuels.

Researchers from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health explored the relationship between arsenic levels found in urine and rates of type 2 diabetes among nearly 800 adults participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey study.

After controlling for risk factors for diabetes and for seafood intake (a source of organic arsenic believed to be nontoxic), those with type 2 diabetes had a 26% increased level of arsenic in their urine. In addition, those with the highest levels of arsenic in their urine were 3.6 times more likely to have type 2 diabetes than those with the lowest levels.

Today's research highlights the need to pay closer attention to sources of arsenic, with drinking water being a primary culprit. In addition to diabetes, arsenic exposure has been linked to heart and reproductive problems as well as the development of cancer.

For Insidermedicine in Depth, I'm Allison Chow.