Both cadmium and hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] are toxic to humans, causing various cancers and organ damage, but cadmium is a potent toxin accumulating in the body over time, particularly affecting the kidneys and liver. Chromium(VI) is a recognized human carcinogen, linked to lung and nasal cancers, and is also associated with asthma and kidney disease. While both metals are genotoxic and induce oxidative stress, hexavalent chromium interacts directly with DNA, forming adducts, whereas cadmium primarily damages DNA by inhibiting repair enzymes.
Cadmium
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Cadmium is highly toxic, even at low levels, accumulating in the body and remaining for years. Exposure occurs through inhalation, food, and water.
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- Cancer: Linked to lung cancer.
- Organ Damage: Causes damage to the liver and kidneys, leading to renal dysfunction and proteinuria (protein in urine).
- Bone: Can cause bone softening (osteomalacia).
- Cancer: Linked to lung cancer.
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Induces oxidative stress by inhibiting antioxidant enzymes and disrupts retinoic acid signaling pathways.
Chromium
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While chromium in its trivalent form (Cr(III)) is essential, hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] is toxic. Exposure is often occupational.
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- Cancer: Recognized as a human carcinogen (Group 1) associated with increased risk of lung and nasal cancers.
- Respiratory Issues: Occupational exposure can lead to asthma and damage to the nasal lining.
- Other: Linked to kidney diseases and may cause gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting.
- Cancer: Recognized as a human carcinogen (Group 1) associated with increased risk of lung and nasal cancers.
