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 review provides a detailed analysis of the various ways cadmium exposure can impact human health, particularly in terms of its link to cancers such as lung, prostate, and kidney cancer. The review emphasizes the long-term accumulation of cadmium in the human body, its persistence, and its toxic effects, which manifest through multiple organ systems, particularly the kidneys, lungs, and cardiovascular system. Cadmium is primarily encountered through inhalation (e.g., tobacco smoke, occupational exposure) and ingestion (e.g., contaminated food and water). The document outlines the biological mechanisms by which cadmium induces toxicity and highlights the importance of better biomarkers for early detection of exposure.
Who is affected?
Cadmium exposure affects various populations, with significant risks for individuals in certain occupational settings, such as workers in cadmium mining, metal smelting, and battery manufacturing. Moreover, the general population is exposed through environmental sources, particularly from polluted air, food, and water. Smokers are at particular risk as they have significantly higher levels of cadmium in their bodies due to the presence of cadmium in tobacco smoke. Populations in regions with high environmental contamination from industrial activities or improper waste disposal are also vulnerable. The review underscores the need for effective monitoring and reduction strategies for both occupational and environmental exposures.
Most important findings
The document highlights the strong evidence linking cadmium exposure to cancer, particularly lung cancer, with emerging evidence for prostate, breast, kidney, and pancreatic cancers. It notes that cadmium-induced cancers are typically identified first in animal studies before human studies confirm these links. The document emphasizes cadmium’s ability to accumulate in tissues such as the kidneys and lungs, leading to chronic diseases like renal dysfunction, bone diseases, and respiratory conditions. Notably, the review highlights that cadmium exposure does not have a clear threshold, meaning any exposure, even at low levels, can potentially contribute to health risks. Moreover, cadmium-induced diseases are slow to manifest, with a biological half-life of 25 to 30 years, leading to long-term health consequences. Research into cadmium biomarkers for early detection of exposure and health effects is urgently needed.
Key implications
For industry, particularly in sectors like mining and manufacturing, this review suggests the need for stricter exposure limits and better monitoring systems for cadmium in the workplace. Occupational health safety standards should be updated to minimize exposure, with proper protective equipment and exposure assessments in place. In terms of public health, reducing cadmium exposure requires coordinated efforts at both the industrial and environmental levels. The review stresses the importance of regulating cadmium in food and water and ensuring that adequate safety measures are enforced to protect vulnerable populations, including children and workers. As cadmium exposure is linked to various cancers, chronic diseases, and developmental issues, there is a clear need for more comprehensive and proactive public health policies aimed at reducing exposure levels.
Citation
Rasin, P., V, A. A., Basheer, S. M., Haribabu, J., Santibanez, J. F., Garrote, C. A., Arulraj, A., & Mangalaraja, R. V. (2025). Exposure to cadmium and its impacts on human health: A short review.Journal of Hazardous Materials Advances, 17, 100608. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hazadv.2025.100608
Cadmium is a persistent heavy metal that accumulates in kidneys and bones. Dietary sources include cereals, cocoa, shellfish and vegetables, while smokers and industrial workers receive higher exposures. Studies link cadmium to kidney dysfunction, bone fractures and cancer.
