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 study examines the impact of chronic lead exposure on cardiovascular disease (CVD) worldwide. Using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2019, the research assesses trends in age-standardized death rates and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) attributable to lead exposure over three decades. It highlights the global, regional, and demographic variations in CVD burden and emphasizes the need for effective lead mitigation strategies.
Who is affected?
Populations in low and middle-income regions face the highest risk, particularly in South Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East. Elderly individuals and males experience higher mortality and DALY burdens due to occupational exposure and cumulative lead accumulation. Governments, regulatory agencies, and public health authorities are responsible for implementing policies to reduce exposure, while food manufacturers and industries handling lead face increased regulatory scrutiny.
Most important findings
Globally, chronic lead exposure caused approximately 850,000 deaths and 17.7 million DALYs in 2019, increasing compared to 1990. Age-standardized death rates and DALYs gradually declined, especially after 2013, reflecting successful mitigation in high-income regions. The High-income Asia Pacific and the Republic of Korea recorded the greatest reductions, while Central Asia and Afghanistan experienced increases. Males and elderly populations bore the highest burden due to occupational exposure, lifestyle factors, and biological vulnerability. Ischemic heart disease and stroke accounted for the majority of lead-related CVD, with hypertensive heart disease contributing significantly. Lead exposure elevates blood pressure, induces vascular inflammation, impairs kidney function, and promotes endothelial dysfunction, all of which increase cardiovascular risk.
Key implications
The findings indicate that industries and food manufacturers must implement stricter control measures to limit lead exposure and adhere to regulatory standards. Governments in low-SDI regions must strengthen lead reduction policies, improve enforcement, and raise public awareness. Public health initiatives should prioritize screening, treatment, and education on cardiovascular risks associated with lead. The study reinforces the importance of integrating lead exposure monitoring into food safety, environmental regulations, and global certification standards to prevent chronic disease and protect vulnerable populations.
Dang, P., Tang, M., Fan, H., & Hao, J. (2024). Chronic lead exposure and burden of cardiovascular disease during 1990–2019: A systematic analysis of the global burden of disease study. Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 11, 1367681. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2024.1367681
Lead is a neurotoxic heavy metal with no safe exposure level. It contaminates food, consumer goods and drinking water, causing cognitive deficits, birth defects and cardiovascular disease. HMTC’s rigorous lead testing applies ALARA principles to protect infants and consumers and to prepare brands for tightening regulations.
