🍽️ cadmium

Kidney Damage: Cadmium is primarily stored in the kidneys after absorption, where it accumulates over time. Chronic exposure to cadmium, even at low levels, can lead to kidney damage and dysfunction. Cadmium-induced kidney toxicity manifests as tubular damage, proteinuria (presence of protein in the urine), decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and eventually, renal failure. Cadmium nephrotoxicity is a significant concern for individuals working in industries involving cadmium exposure, as well as populations exposed to cadmium through contaminated food, water, or tobacco smoke.

Bone Effects: Cadmium exposure is associated with adverse effects on bone health, including osteoporosis and increased fracture risk. Cadmium interferes with calcium metabolism and bone mineralization, leading to decreased bone density and strength. Chronic cadmium exposure may result in a condition known as itai-itai disease, characterized by severe bone pain, osteomalacia (softening of the bones), and skeletal deformities.

Cardiovascular Disease: Cadmium exposure has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and peripheral artery disease. Cadmium may promote oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and dyslipidemia, contributing to the development and progression of cardiovascular disorders. Additionally, cadmium exposure may disrupt vascular homeostasis and impair heart function, leading to adverse cardiovascular outcomes.

Respiratory Effects: Inhalation of cadmium-containing dust or fumes can cause respiratory symptoms and lung damage. Acute inhalation exposure to high levels of cadmium may result in chemical pneumonitis (inflammation of the lung tissue) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Chronic inhalation of cadmium particles or fumes, such as those encountered in industrial settings, can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and lung cancer.

Cancer: Cadmium is classified as a human carcinogen by various regulatory agencies, including the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Chronic exposure to cadmium has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, prostate cancer, and kidney cancer. Cadmium may exert carcinogenic effects through mechanisms such as DNA damage, oxidative stress, inflammation, and disruption of cellular signaling pathways.

Reproductive and Developmental Effects: Cadmium exposure may have adverse effects on reproductive health and fertility. In males, cadmium can disrupt spermatogenesis, impair sperm quality, and reduce fertility. In females, cadmium exposure may lead to menstrual irregularities, infertility, and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Additionally, prenatal exposure to cadmium has been linked to developmental abnormalities in children, including neurobehavioral deficits and growth retardation.

Neurological Effects: Cadmium toxicity may have neurotoxic effects, although the mechanisms are not fully understood. Chronic cadmium exposure has been associated with cognitive impairment, neurobehavioral deficits, and increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Cadmium may disrupt neuronal function, induce oxidative stress, and promote neuroinflammation, contributing to neurological dysfunction.