Research shows heavy metal poisoning increases the risk of cardiovascular disease

Exposure to heavy metals such as cadmium, uranium and copper can cause not only cancer, neurological and reproductive problems, but also cardiovascular disease, a new study suggests.

Exposure to metals through smoking, drinking water, pollution, food and consumer products can lead to calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, according to research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Cardiology.

Partial or complete blockage of an artery can lead to conditions such as stroke and coronary heart disease, which can cause arrhythmia, cardiac arrest or heart failure.

Heavy metals in drinking water or air can cause calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, leading to chronic inflammation. (Illustration: Getty Images)

According to cardiologists Sadeer Al-Kindi, Khurram Nasir and Sanjay Rajagopalan, the magnitude of the association between heavy metals and cardiovascular disease is 'astounding ,' comparable to smoking or diabetes. They emphasize that exposure to heavy metals may be a potential risk factor for cardiovascular health.

"Our findings highlight the importance of considering metal exposure as a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease," said Katlyn E. McGraw, PhD, lead author of the study from Columbia University, in a press release .

The team analyzed data from 6,418 people aged 45 to 84 between July 2000 and August 2002. 'Although the underlying mechanisms by which these metals may promote atherosclerosis remain to be elucidated ,' the study authors said, they hypothesize that the presence of heavy metals may promote arterial stiffness in part through increased inflammation.

The study also found that in addition to metals in air and drinking water, contamination with cadmium, tungsten, uranium, cobalt, copper, and zinc comes from agricultural and industrial activities. Specifically, these metals are widely used in fertilizers, batteries, oil production, mining, and nuclear power generation. This increases human exposure and requires strong interventions to reduce public health risks.

To minimize exposure to heavy metals, measures from policy makers are necessary, but individuals can also take some precautions such as quitting smoking (including e-cigarettes); using purified drinking water; living a healthy lifestyle; using appropriate personal protective equipment such as masks, protective clothing when working in environments with direct contact with heavy metals, etc.