Heavy metals like cadmium, mercury, lead, and arsenic pose real health risks—and cadmium exposure is a particular concern because many people in Europe already exceed safe levels with very little margin for safety. Cadmium can damage kidneys and bones at lower exposure levels than previously thought, while mercury mainly enters our bodies through fish and dental work (pregnant women should be especially cautious). The good news: emissions have declined in developed countries over the past century, but contamination remains a public health issue globally.

This is a review article that synthesized existing research on heavy metal health effects and exposure sources, drawing on studies reviewed by international health bodies like the WHO rather than conducting new experiments.

Funding not disclosed in abstract