Seedlings of Ofada rice (Oryza sativum L.) were raised in sand (swampy) and clay (upland) cultures under 500 µM sodium arsenate and 500 µM Ca(OH)2 aqueous extract for 40 days. The uptake and distribution pattern of arsenic with possible induction of oxidative stress in the rice plants were determined. The inhibitory potential of lime against arsenic-induced oxidative stress in rice seedlings was also assessed. Results showed that rice seedlings grown for 10–40 days under 500 µM sodium arsenate showed significant (P<0.05) increase in level of lipid peroxides in roots, indicating enhanced lipid peroxidation in roots than shoots when compared to control. The results further suggest that arsenic-induced lipid peroxidation is a potential threat and could possibly be salvaged by lime in growing rice plants.

Introduction: Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are assuming increasing importance among the adult population worldwide and one of the major emerging health problems affecting both males and females. Over the last few years, India is experiencing a rising burden of NCDs, which mainly includes: cardiovascular diseases, stroke, diabetes, cancer, MSD, chronic respiratory diseases, accidents and injuries and mental health. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to find the epidemiological profile and prevalence of NCDs among 140 workers in a private Iron Ore Mine in Jharkhand. Results: The study revealed, most of the employees (47%) were pre-obese or obese with a Body Mass Index (BMI)> 25. 41% of the workers were smoker, 31% alcoholic. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD), Hypertension and Diabetes found in 23%, 19% and 14% respectively. BMI was significantly associated (at p<0.05) with hypertension (x2=5.1171, p=0.023691) and diabetes (x2=4.8922, p=0.026979). Smoking also showed statistically significant association (x2=6.86, p=0.008815, p<0.05) with hypertension. Conclusions: NCDs were common among the mining workers. The study emphasized the need of communitybased wellness program along with some specific recommendations to prevent NCDs among the mining workers.