Cadmium

Overview

Cadmium is a heavy metal naturally found in the Earth's crust. While it has industrial uses in batteries and coatings, it doesn't serve any purpose in the human body. Instead, cadmium can accumulate over time, especially through exposure to cigarette smoke, certain foods, or polluted air and water. Think of cadmium as an unwelcome guest that sneaks into your body and decides to stay, potentially causing harm over the long term. It tends to settle in organs like the kidneys and lungs, and can even affect bone health. By checking cadmium levels, we can see if this unwelcome guest has made itself at home, allowing us to take steps to reduce exposure and protect our health.

Testing Levels:

• High (5 µg/L) - If your cadmium levels are higher than what's considered normal, it's a sign that you've been overexposed to this heavy metal. High levels can lead to kidney damage, as cadmium builds up and interferes with how your kidneys filter waste. It might also weaken your bones, making them more prone to fractures. In some cases, it can affect your lungs, especially if you've inhaled cadmium particles. You might not notice symptoms right away, but over time, issues like fatigue, trouble breathing, or bone pain could develop. Knowing your levels are high means it's important to find and reduce the sources of cadmium in your life to protect your health.
  
  
• Mid - Having cadmium levels within the normal range is a good sign. It means that your exposure to this heavy metal is low, and it's not building up in your body in a harmful way. Essentially, your body isn't hosting that unwelcome guest, and your kidneys, bones, and lungs are less likely to be affected by cadmium-related problems. Maintaining this status involves continuing healthy habits that minimise exposure.
  
  If your cadmium levels are creeping up toward the higher end of normal, it's a yellow light - a caution to pay attention. This suggests that while you might not be overexposed yet, you're getting close. It's a good time to look at your lifestyle and environment to see where cadmium might be coming from. Maybe it's time to quit smoking, adjust your diet, or use protective gear at work. Taking action now can help prevent levels from rising further and keep potential health issues at bay.
  
  When your cadmium levels are near the lower end, that's great news. Since cadmium doesn't play any beneficial role in your body, having less of it is better. It indicates minimal exposure and a lower risk of any potential health issues related to cadmium. Keep up the good work in avoiding sources of cadmium to maintain this low level.
  
  
• Low ( µg/L) - Unlike nutrients that you need in certain amounts, cadmium isn't one of them. Lower levels simply mean less exposure and a reduced chance of cadmium-related health problems. It's a positive sign that you're effectively keeping this toxic metal out of your body.

Why We Test Cadmium

Testing for cadmium is important if you might have been exposed to it, especially if you smoke, work in certain industries, or live near industrial sites. Knowing your cadmium levels can help you take steps to reduce exposure and prevent possible health issues like kidney damage or bone weakness. It's a proactive way to safeguard your long-term health by catching any problems early on.

What Affects It

Several factors can influence cadmium levels in your body. Smoking is a major one, as tobacco plants absorb cadmium from the soil, which then enters your body when you inhale cigarette smoke. Your job might also play a role - working in industries like battery manufacturing, welding, or metal processing can increase exposure. Even your diet matters; foods like shellfish, liver, and some grains can contain higher levels of cadmium. Environmental factors, such as living near industrial areas or consuming contaminated water, can also raise cadmium levels.

How to Improve

If your cadmium levels are high or nearing the high side, it's time to reduce exposure. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective steps you can take. If your job exposes you to cadmium, use protective equipment and follow safety guidelines to minimise contact. Adjusting your diet to limit foods high in cadmium can also help. Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients like calcium and iron may reduce how much cadmium your body absorbs. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can guide you in lowering your cadmium levels and keeping them in a safe range. If your levels are low or near the lower end, continue with your healthy habits to maintain this beneficial state.

Common Name: Cadmium