Question

How does contaminated water affect the digestive system?

1.How structures may change(think organ layer,protein shape,fluid losses,etc).

2.How altered structures affect the physiology

3. How cells and tissues may be affected

4.New exposure to toxins or carcinogens

Answer 1

The water may be contaminated either by microorganisms or by the presence of toxic substances such as chemicals and minerals. The pathogens present in the contaminated water main lead to development of diseases such as diarrhoea and dysentery. These disease processes affect the the brush border lining of the intestines. These changes affect the normal secretion of enzymes and therefore digestion and absorption of nutrients from the digestive tract are compromised. The toxic substances present in the contaminated water impair the ability of enterocytes from performing its normal function. These harmful substances may also lead to development of gastrointestinal carcinoma.