The Level of Arsenic Pollution in the Plains’ Ground Water in the Streams of the Red River, MA River and Mekong River of Vietnam

Groundwater polluted by arsenic is still an environmental issue of particular concern worldwide. High concentration of arsenic in groundwater have been reported in many countries around the world, such as Chile, Mexico, China, Argentina, part of the USA, as well as in West Bengal (India), Bangladesh and Vietnam. An estimated 150 million people worldwide are affected. Arsenic is known as a famous carcinogen - the "king of poison". In the Red River Delta, Ma River Delta, Mekong River Delta, the risk of arsenic pollution has been warned. People are exposed to and absorb arsenic for long period (5-10 years) through drinking water, which can lead to chronic intoxication to arsenic. Symptoms include skin horns, skin cancers, visceral cancers (bladder, kidney, lung), blood vessels in the legs and feet, diabetes, hypertension and reproductive disorders. The article focuses on the level of groundwater pollution in the Red River Delta, Ma River Delta, Mekong River Delta of Vietnam. The extent of arsenic spread in groundwater, its effect in groundwater and some solutions to treat arsenic in groundwater. The issue was studied from the results of field surveys in the study areas, to summarize, compare and analyze according to objective reality. Data used from 2007 to 6/2018.