Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. 
Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. What was studied?
This review explored the health effects of mercury exposure across different systems of the human body and the environmental sources of mercury. The study examined the toxicological impact of mercury in various forms: elemental, inorganic, and organic, with a focus on its harmful effects even at low concentrations. The authors highlighted the impact of mercury on the nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, reproductive, and immune systems, as well as its connection to several cancers and developmental disorders. The paper also delved into mercury’s ability to bioaccumulate in the environment, particularly in aquatic ecosystems, through sources like contaminated food, industrial waste, and certain medical products.
Who was studied?
The study did not focus on a specific group of individuals, but instead, it examined global trends in mercury exposure, particularly in populations at risk. Workers in industries such as electronics, mining, and waste disposal were highlighted as having higher exposure risks. The study also reviewed the general public, including pregnant women and children, who are particularly vulnerable to mercury’s neurotoxic effects. The review included data from various regions worldwide, including the U.S., Europe, China, and Africa, highlighting the widespread use of mercury in industry and the consequent exposure risks. Specific case studies, such as the Minamata disease in Japan and incidents from gold mining regions, were also discussed to demonstrate the severe health impacts of long-term mercury exposure.
Most important findings
The review emphasized that mercury, regardless of its form, poses significant health risks even at low levels of exposure. It affects nearly every organ system in the human body, with the nervous system being the most vulnerable. Exposure to methylmercury, in particular, was found to have detrimental effects on neurodevelopment, leading to cognitive deficits, motor impairments, and other neurological disorders in children. Mercury exposure during pregnancy was shown to increase the risk of developmental disorders, low birth weight, and miscarriages. Chronic exposure can lead to severe respiratory and cardiovascular issues, including lung dysfunction and increased risk of heart disease.
The study also found that mercury is a potent endocrine disruptor, causing hormonal imbalances, particularly in thyroid, estrogen, and testosterone levels. The toxic metal can also lead to skin lesions, vision impairment, and, in severe cases, death. Furthermore, there is increasing evidence of mercury’s role in promoting various cancers, such as kidney, liver, and prostate cancers, and its involvement in the development of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and systemic sclerosis. The review also highlighted the persistent environmental impact of mercury, particularly in aquatic ecosystems, where methylmercury accumulates in fish, posing a risk to those consuming contaminated seafood.
Key implications
Mercury levels in fish should be regularly tested, and HTMC programs should advocate for the reduction of mercury emissions in industries, particularly those involved in gold mining, electronics recycling, and coal combustion. Ensuring that products meet strict mercury exposure standards, particularly for vulnerable populations like pregnant women and children, will be crucial in mitigating the health impacts of mercury. Furthermore, HTMC guidelines should support initiatives to phase out mercury-containing products and replace them with safer alternatives in medical and industrial settings. Public health campaigns should focus on educating consumers about the risks of mercury exposure and provide clear guidelines on safe fish consumption and product use.
Citation
Charkiewicz, A. E., Omeljaniuk, W. J., Garley, M., & Nikliński, J. (2025). Mercury Exposure and Health Effects: What Do We Really Know? International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(5), 2326. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26052326
Mercury (Hg) is a neurotoxic heavy metal found in various consumer products and environmental sources, making it a major public health concern. Its regulation is critical to protect vulnerable populations from long-term health effects, such as neurological impairment and cardiovascular disease. The HMTC program ensures that products meet the highest standards for mercury safety.
