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Heavy Metals

Arsenic Test

As part of comprehensive health screening, an arsenic blood test helps you understand your environmental exposure to this potentially harmful element. Knowing your arsenic levels is an important step in taking charge of your health.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

No established reference range

There is no reference interval for arsenic in urine, for two independent reasons. First, no health-based limit can exist: inorganic arsenic is a genotoxic carcinogen, and no safe threshold is definable for such substances. The German HBM Commission therefore published only a background-exposure reference value and explicitly no health-based value; EFSA has used a margin-of-exposure approach since 2024 for the same reason. Second, total urinary arsenic is not interpretable on its own: arsenobetaine from fish and shellfish is harmless but raises the result several-fold for days. A result without speciation therefore mostly reflects what you recently ate. Discuss your result with your doctor; we do not state a number we cannot substantiate.

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Arsenic: what this test measures

This test measures the concentration of arsenic in your blood. Arsenic exposure can occur through contaminated groundwater, rice and seafood, pesticides, and certain industrial processes.

Arsenic: why this value matters

Arsenic is a known carcinogen and even low-level chronic exposure may be associated with cardiovascular issues, skin changes, and neurological effects. Early detection of elevated levels can help guide appropriate measures to reduce exposure.

Arsenic: when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be recommended if you live in an area with known groundwater contamination, consume large amounts of rice or seafood, or have occupational exposure. Consult a healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

Arsenic: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Low levels of arsenic are generally not a cause for concern and may indicate minimal exposure.

High Levels

Skin changes, nausea, vomiting, numbness or tingling, cardiovascular issues, abdominal pain.

Arsenic: lifestyle and this value

Use filtered or tested water sources, especially if you rely on well water. Rinse rice thoroughly before cooking and vary your grain intake. Be aware of occupational exposure risks and use appropriate protective equipment.

Arsenic: frequently asked questions

What are common sources of arsenic exposure?
Common sources include contaminated groundwater, rice, seafood, certain fruit juices, and occupational exposure in industries such as mining, smelting, and pesticide manufacturing.
Is arsenic found in food dangerous?
Trace amounts of arsenic can be found in many foods, particularly rice. While occasional consumption is generally not a concern, chronic intake of high levels may be associated with health effects. Varying your diet can help reduce exposure.
How can I reduce my arsenic exposure?
Filtering drinking water, rinsing rice before cooking, varying grain sources, and following occupational safety guidelines can help reduce arsenic exposure. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

Medical reviewer

Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
CIBG Ministerie van Volksgezondheid,
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Arsenic

€104,-