New research reveals a link between cadmium exposure and increased mortality from respiratory infections in the United States.

What is Cadmium?

Cadmium is a naturally occurring element that can be found in rocks and soil. It is used in a variety of industries, including battery manufacturing, paint production, and electronic production.

Cadmium exposure can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or dermal contact.

The Study

The new study, which was published in the journal “Environmental Health Perspectives,” used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to examine the relationship between cadmium exposure and respiratory infection mortality rates in the United States. NHANES is a large survey that collects information on the health and nutritional status of individuals in the U.S.

The study found that individuals with higher urinary cadmium levels had a higher mortality rate from respiratory infections compared to those with lower levels of cadmium.

The study accounted for other factors that could impact respiratory infections, such as smoking status and age.

Why does Cadmium increase mortality rates from respiratory infections?

Previous studies have shown that cadmium exposure can cause lung damage and impair the immune system. The damage to the immune system can make individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections.

Cadmium also has been shown to impact the production and function of cytokines, which are important for mounting an appropriate immune response against infections.

Cadmium can also increase oxidative stress in the lungs, which can impair lung function and make individuals more susceptible to respiratory infections.

Who is at risk for cadmium exposure?

Individuals who work in industries that use cadmium, such as battery manufacturing, are at higher risk for cadmium exposure. However, cadmium exposure can also occur in the general population through contaminated air, water, or soil.

Cadmium exposure also occurs through smoking cigarettes, as tobacco plants naturally accumulate cadmium.

How to reduce your risk of cadmium exposure?

Reducing exposure to cadmium can be challenging because it is found in a variety of industries and products. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of exposure:.

Avoid smoking cigarettes or being around second-hand smoke.
Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating, to reduce ingestion of cadmium.
Eat a healthy diet that includes foods high in vitamins and minerals that can help protect against cadmium toxicity.
If you work in an industry that uses cadmium, be sure to follow proper safety procedures, such as using protective equipment and following proper disposal procedures.

: The Bottom Line

Cadmium exposure is linked to increased mortality rates from respiratory infections in the United States. The new research highlights the importance of reducing cadmium exposure to protect public health.