Cadmium is a metal that is usually found in combination with other elements. Most cadmium used in the United States is obtained as a byproduct from the smelting of
zinc,
lead, or
copper ores. Such cadmium is then used to manufacture pigments and batteries used in the metal-plating and plastics industries.
Exposure to cadmium happens mostly in the
workplace where cadmium products are made. The general population is exposed from breathing
cigarette smoke or eating cadmium
contaminated foods.
Long term exposure to cadmium may cause
kidney problems, including
kidney failure. Studies have shown that chronic exposure to cadmium may cause
lung cancer. While evidence of
birth defects in humans exposed to cadmium is inconclusive, some animals seem to be prone to such birth defects after such exposure. This substance has been found in at least 776 of the 1,467 National Priorities List
sites identified by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
See your doctor if you have experienced serious health problems because of cadmium exposure. In addition, it may be important to
contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there may be
time limits within which you must commence suit.
See Also
- Toxic & Hazardous Substances
- Anemia
- Birth Defects
- Bone, Joint & Muscle Disorders: Overview
- Cancer
- Diarrhea: Overview
- Digestive Disorders: Overview
- Head, Spinal Cord, Brain & Nerve Disorders: Overview
- High Blood Pressure (hypertension): Overview
- Kidney Failure
- Liver & Gallbladder Disorders
- Lung & Airway Disorders
- Lung Cancer: Overview
- Cadmium: Frequently Asked Questions