A Survey-Based Analysis of the Extent of Aluminium Involvement in our Lives for Risk Assessment

Abstract

Despite being a non-essential metal in the body, we acquire aluminium via various sources such as aluminium cookware, foil, medicines, cosmetics, food, water, and aluminium-industries. Though it can be eliminated from our body, the excess and cumulative effect can’t be ignored. Aluminium load above the threshold causes several diseases like Alzheimer’s, osteomalacia, anaemia, and cancer. Hence, the current study was designed to explore the frequency of aluminium usage in various forms in the Indian population of northwest rural and urban regions of Maharashtra and investigate any preferential difference in aluminium usage with occupation, education, income, and family structure. It is a correlational study designed to check the extent of aluminium involvement in their lives and their perception of awareness. A non-random sampling method using social media was utilized for data collection, and data were analyzed using a statistical tool, Jamovi. A survey-based analysis of the responses to a pre-designed questionnaire was done. The prominent factor contributing to the aluminium load was found to be the aluminium vessel used in our kitchen. Boiling, storing, and baking edible items facilitate its leaching into food to toxic levels. Further analysis revealed a significant correlation of financial and educational status with aluminium usage. Reducing aluminium vessel usage for cooking can significantly reduce aluminium load in our bodies. However, we still need to be vigilant about the aluminium load which the other products are imparting upon us. Hence, awareness and exploring the alternatives are the only options to keep a check on the aluminium load.