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 issued?
The article discusses the increasing contamination of chromium (Cr) in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, highlighting the environmental and health risks posed by chromium exposure, particularly in its hexavalent form (Cr(VI)). The review outlines how Cr(VI) is released into the environment due to various anthropogenic activities, including industrial processes such as metal plating, leather tanning, and textile dyeing. Cr(VI) is a toxic and mobile form that significantly harms the environment and human health, with a noted increase in the prevalence of chromium contamination in regions like India. The article also emphasizes the need for sustainable remediation approaches, such as bioremediation and phytoremediation, to mitigate Cr(VI) pollution. These technologies focus on utilizing natural processes to convert Cr(VI) into less harmful forms, thus promoting environmental health and minimizing the impact on human populations.
Who is affected?
The contamination of chromium affects a wide array of stakeholders, including industrial workers, local communities, environmental regulators, and public health officials. Workers in industries such as chrome plating, leather tanning, and textile dyeing are at the highest risk, especially those exposed to Cr(VI) through inhalation or skin contact. Communities near chromium-contaminated sites, particularly in regions with high industrial activity, are also vulnerable. In these areas, groundwater, soil, and air pollution can lead to serious health effects, including cancer, respiratory issues, and kidney dysfunction. Farmers and agricultural workers are similarly impacted, as chromium contamination can reduce crop yield and quality, ultimately affecting food security and public health.
Most important findings
The review provides significant insights into chromium’s environmental and health impacts. Cr(VI) is particularly harmful due to its solubility and mobility in water, which allows it to spread widely through ecosystems, contaminating water, soil, and food crops. The toxic effects of Cr(VI) include respiratory diseases, lung cancer, kidney damage, and gastrointestinal issues, which are worsened by chronic exposure. The article notes that while Cr(III) is an essential element for human health, Cr(VI) poses far greater risks, including its potential to cause oxidative stress, DNA damage, and immune system suppression. The review also emphasizes the lack of adequate regulatory controls for Cr(VI), with levels in contaminated areas often exceeding permissible limits, resulting in long-term environmental and public health risks.
Key implications
The findings of this review have important implications for both industry and public health. For industries involved in chromium production or handling, stricter regulations and more effective waste management practices are essential to prevent further environmental contamination. Food manufacturers and certifiers must be aware of the potential risks of chromium in water, soil, and crops, especially in regions near industrial areas, and take measures to monitor and limit chromium exposure in their products. The public health sector must prioritize the reduction of Cr(VI) exposure, particularly for vulnerable populations such as workers and communities living near polluted sites. Regulatory bodies must enforce stricter chromium limits in environmental standards, including drinking water and soil, to mitigate the long-term health risks associated with exposure. The adoption of bioremediation and phytoremediation as sustainable solutions for chromium contamination can contribute to more eco-friendly and cost-effective cleanup methods.
Citation
Prasad, S., Yadav, K. K., Kumar, S., Gupta, N., Cabral-Pinto, M. M., Rezania, S., Radwan, N., & Alam, J. (2021). Chromium contamination and effect on environmental health and its remediation: A sustainable approaches. Journal of Environmental Management, 285, 112174. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.112174
Chromium (Cr) is a widely used metal with significant public health implications, especially in its toxic hexavalent form. The HMTC program’s stricter regulations ensure that chromium exposure is minimized, safeguarding consumer health, particularly for vulnerable populations.
