Exposure to heavy metals such as cadmium, uranium, and copper not only causes cancer, neurological or reproductive issues, but also cardiovascular diseases, according to a new study.
According to research published in the journal of the American College of Cardiology, exposure to metals through smoking, drinking water, pollution, food, and consumer products can lead to calcium buildup in the coronary arteries.
Partial or complete blockage of the arteries can lead to conditions such as stroke and coronary heart disease, which can cause arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, or heart failure.
Heavy metals in drinking water or air can cause calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, leading to chronic inflammation. (Illustrative image: Getty Images)
Cardiologists Sadeer Al-Kindi, Khurram Nasir, and Sanjay Rajagopalan describe the correlation between heavy metals and cardiovascular disease as “astonishing,” comparable to smoking or diabetes. They emphasize that exposure to heavy metals could be a hidden risk factor for cardiovascular health.
Dr. Katlyn E. McGraw, the lead author of the study from Columbia University, stated in a press release: “Our findings highlight the importance of considering metal exposure as a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.”
The research team analyzed data from 6,418 individuals aged 45 to 84 from July 2000 to August 2002. The study authors noted: “Although the underlying mechanisms by which these metals may promote atherosclerosis remain unclear,” they hypothesize that the presence of heavy metals may contribute to arterial stiffness partly through increased inflammation.
The study also indicates that not only heavy metals in the air and drinking water but also cadmium, tungsten, uranium, cobalt, copper, and zinc pollution originates from agricultural and industrial activities. Specifically, these metals are widely used in fertilizers, batteries, oil production, mining, and nuclear energy production. This increases human exposure levels and necessitates strong interventions to minimize public health risks.
To reduce exposure to heavy metals, policy measures are essential, but individuals can also take precautions such as quitting smoking (including e-cigarettes), using filtered drinking water, living healthily, and utilizing appropriate personal protective equipment like masks and protective clothing when working in environments with direct exposure to heavy metals.
