About This Project

A state of emergency has been declared in Peru due to levels of mercury (Hg) exposure. Hg toxicity has a plethora of devastating neurological and cognitive effects that can ravage vulnerable communities, such as the indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon. The goal of this project is to reduce Hg levels in mothers and children through education and the construction of high antioxidant food baskets of locally acquired foods.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

While Hg exposure has been assessed in artisanal and small-scale mining communities, it is seldom examined with regard to the non-mining communities adjacent to the mining areas. Increased Hg exposure through fish consumption has been identified in populations in the Amazon, but the paucity of available data hinders effective intervention. These native communities are thought to experience elevated Hg exposure as a result of dietary factors, most notably, fish consumption. Biomagnification in high trophic level fish species is believed to be a significant risk factor for Hg exposure. Unfortunately, there is a significant lack of scientific evidence to elucidate other dietary options that may positively, or adversely, impact Hg toxicity.

What is the significance of this project?

With the declaration of a state of emergency in Peru, it is imperative that Hg toxicity is addressed in mothers and children in order to preserve the entire next generation of the native communities. Hg toxicity in children causes permanent, irreversible neurological damage and cognitive impairment. With the native communities experiencing a disproportionately high fraction of negative health outcomes, an economically sustainable intervention needs to be implemented in order to protect the next generation. The study aims to address these concerns with regard to native riverine communities in the Amazon, and develop a dietary intervention capable of mitigating Hg exposure.

What are the goals of the project?

The goal of this project is to test the efficacy of two approaches in reducing Hg levels in 3 highly exposed indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon (Boca Manu, Diamante, and Isla de los Valles). We aim to: (1) develop and implement an educational curriculum for children and adults on sources of Hg exposure; and (2) construct a high antioxidant food basket of locally acquired foods. Previous research has indicated the potential relationship between reduced Hg levels and diets rich in select foods, such as quinoa and kiwicha. We anticipate that these two intervention strategies will empower communities to take charge of their health through simple dietary adjustments. The results of this study would inform future public health interventions in the region.