Study Links Metal Exposure to Increased Cardiovascular Disease Risk #

A new study has added to emerging research showing that exposure to metals such as cadmium, uranium, and copper may be associated with cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide.

The study found that metal exposure is associated with accumulation of calcium in the coronary arteries. The magnitude of these associations is comparable to those observed for classical risk factors such as smoking and diabetes.

Coronary calcium buildup causes atherosclerosis, a chronic and inflammatory cardiovascular disease marked by narrowed arterial walls and reduced blood flow. This can lead to conditions such as stroke and coronary heart disease.

The researchers analyzed data from 6,418 adults aged 45 to 84 who participated in a multi-ethnic study. Participants provided urine samples, and their arterial calcium was measured over a 10-year period.

Key findings include:

• Participants with the highest urinary cadmium levels had 51% higher calcification levels at the study’s start and 75% higher levels over the 10-year period.
• High urinary tungsten, uranium, and cobalt levels were associated with 45%, 39%, and 47% higher coronary calcification levels over the follow-up period, respectively.
• For those with the highest amounts of urinary copper and zinc, calcification levels increased by 33% and 57% over 10 years, respectively.

These findings remained after considering sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle aspects, and cardiovascular risk factors.

While the study shows association, it doesn’t establish causation. The potential mechanisms by which these metals might promote atherosclerosis progression remain to be elucidated.

The study supports the need for large-scale public health action, including lowering acceptable limits of metals in air and water and improving enforcement of metal pollution reduction.

Individuals can take some steps to reduce metal exposure, such as:

• Quitting smoking or vaping
• Testing drinking water and using filters if needed
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet and exercise
• Using appropriate personal protective equipment in jobs with metal exposure

The study highlights the importance of considering metal exposure as a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.