Abstract:
Serpentine is a mineral rich with Nickel, Chromium, Cobalt and Iron.
Weathering of Serpentine rock can liberate such elements into the environment.
Excessive exposure to such elements can damage human health by means of skin
rashes, redness of skin, and Kidney diseases. Previous studies carried out in the
Ginigalpelessa area off Ambilipitiya has concluded that major part of the area is
underlain by serpentinite bodies and high amount of such elements are present in
the soil, weathered rocks and fresh rocks of the area. To identify health issues
associated within the area, a questionnaire was carried out in Gingigalpalessa
village and in Angunakolapalessa village which is located about 15 km away from
Ginigalpelessa area, where similar weather conditions,cultivations and social
activities are found but not geology. Data gathered from the questionnaire shows
skin rashes are common among the people living in Ginigalpellassa area. The
survey also revealed that 54% of the patients are children, age below 15 years and
38% of them are adults, age above 45 years. Furthermore such deseases are common
among the families living in the area for a longer period. The results also reveal that
majority of the patients live in highly concentrated zones of such elements in
Ginigalpelessa area and no such cases are found in Angunukolapellessa village
where geological conditions are different.
