Medical Geology and its relevance in Africa

The idea of Africa Alive Corridors (AAC) evolved from Gondwana geological mapping to a comprehensive, more inclusive and dynamic approach to transdisciplinary research known as Earth Stewardship Science. Twenty designated corridors explore the geo-biological and cultural heritage of different regions of Africa over various periods, from deep time to the Anthropocene. Each corridor reveals a specific lens through which to investigate some of the rich scientific narratives embedded within it. The concept also facilitates learning and knowledge exchange across numerous disciplines: archeology, geology, geophysics, oceanography, glaciology, biology, botany, ecology, agriculture, engineering, spatial statistics, social sciences, and the humanities. This contribution analyses ten selected corridors in southern and western Africa, the Congo Basin, East Africa, and Madagascar. The various research themes explored include Earth impact hazard, origins of humankind, Snowball Earth, coastal food systems and conservation, the biogeography of lemurs, human settlement dynamics in Cameroon, tectonically linked earthquake occurrences in Algeria and Morocco, modelling land-use changes in the Western Rift Valley, trades and civilizations of the Mali Empire, Mbira music, and contemporary art. The ongoing work on these—and ten other—corridors has considerable potential to host new international collaborations to develop the links between society and natural sciences in Africa. Ultimately, AAC will benefit all stakeholders, especially the youth, in understanding and responding to societal needs and current global challenges.

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Medical geology and overview of studies from Africa and Asia

Warra,

Aziz,

Abidin

2023

CABI One Health

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Despite some appreciable development of Medical Geology reported in various parts of the world, Africa and Asia are still developing. Indeed, there is substantial evidence to demonstrate that research in this area holds significant relevance for the African and Asian continents. Given the importance of geo-environmental materials, factors, and processes, including both geogenic and anthropogenic activities, as well as the consistently reported cases of diseases associated with such activities in Africa and Asia, it has become imperative to explore genuine relationships. This review delves into comprehensive studies on the impact of geological factors on human health. The geologic sources of contamination by toxic elements in the environment, which lead to human exposure through food and water, are examined closely. Recent case studies, research, and development (R&D) efforts undertaken by scholars, researchers, and government institutions are also thoroughly reviewed, with the aim of charting a course toward viable solutions. Furthermore, the discussion extends to raising awareness about the harmful effects of water contamination caused by toxic metals, such as arsenic and fluoride, and addressing mining hazards in Africa and Asia. The issue of exposure to toxic metals and metalloids, including lead and chromium (II), is also tackled. Recommendations are put forth emphasizing the necessity of synergy among medical scientists, geologists, geochemists, biochemists, and other stakeholders involved in environmental health studies. The importance of creating an environment conducive to brainstorming ideas that contribute to understanding the emergence of new pathologies, as well as the development of pertinent curricula for institutions in Africa and Asia, is also thoroughly discussed.

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Medical Geology and its relevance in Africa

Cited by 3 publications

References 6 publications

Medical Geology in Africa: An Example of a Successful Educational and Research Initiative at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Medical Geology in Africa: An Example of a Successful Educational and Research Initiative at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Africa Alive Corridors: Transdisciplinary Research based on African Footprints

Medical geology and overview of studies from Africa and Asia

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