Toxic elements

Antimony is a metalloid used in flame retardants, electronics, and alloys. Exposure to antimony can be toxic, potentially causing respiratory irritation, skin problems, and, in severe cases, heart and lung issues. People working in industries that handle antimony or living near manufacturing sites may face higher exposure risks, and proper safety measures and environmental monitoring can help reduce toxicity.

Barium (Ba) is a soft, silvery metal used in various industries, including manufacturing and medical diagnostics. While barium sulfate used in medical imaging is considered safe, exposure to soluble barium compounds can be harmful. Such exposure may affect the heart, cause muscle weakness, and damage the kidneys and liver. Industrial workers and individuals near barium processing plants are at higher risk of exposure through inhalation or contaminated water.

Beryllium, a lightweight metal used in aerospace, electronics, and nuclear industries, poses health risks when inhaled as dust or fumes. Beryllium exposure can lead to chronic beryllium disease (CBD), a serious lung condition, and skin diseases like dermatitis. The greatest risk occurs in industrial environments where beryllium is processed or machined....

Bismuth (Bi) is a heavy metal commonly found in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and certain alloys. While generally considered safe, excessive exposure—particularly from medications containing bismuth—can lead to toxicity. Bismuth toxicity may cause neurological symptoms, including confusion and poor coordination. The primary route of exposure to bismuth is through ingestion of bismuth-containing products.

Gadolinium (Gd) is a rare earth metal used as a contrast agent in MRI scans. While it is generally considered safe, there are concerns about gadolinium deposits remaining in the body, particularly in individuals with kidney issues. Gadolinium retention can sometimes cause symptoms such as skin thickening, bone pain, and cognitive difficulties.

Glyphosphate: Glyphosphate is a chemical compound used as an active ingredient in many herbicides. It works by inhibiting an enzyme essential for plant growth, making it effective for weed control. Glyphosphate is commonly applied to crops such as wheat, soybean, and corn and can be found in food and water. Exposure to glyphosphate has been associated with potential health risks, and its presence in the body can provide insights into environmental and dietary effects.

Microplastic particles refer to tiny fragments of plastic, typically less than 5 millimeters in size, with this test specifically focusing on particles smaller than 30 micrometers. These particles can originate from a wide range of sources, including food packaging, textiles, cosmetics, personal care products, and environmental pollution. Once ingested or inhaled, microplastics may enter the bloodstream and circulate in the body.

Palladium is a metal used in electronics, jewelry, and dental materials. While it is useful across various industries, high levels of inhalation or ingestion can be toxic, especially in occupational settings. Exposure may cause respiratory, skin, and digestive problems, and some individuals may develop allergic reactions such as dermatitis.

Platinum (Pt) is a precious metal used in automotive catalytic converters, jewelry, and chemotherapy drugs. While valuable, it can pose health risks when inhaled or through prolonged skin contact. Exposure may cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and skin irritation, particularly for workers in industries handling platinum or individuals wearing platinum-based jewelry. Proper protective measures and limiting excessive exposure can help reduce these health risks.

Silver is a metal with diverse uses in industry and medicine, but it can become toxic with significant human exposure. While small amounts naturally occur in the environment and consumer products, excessive exposure can cause health issues such as argyria — a condition that permanently turns the skin blue-gray. Ingesting, inhaling, or contacting silver compounds can lead to argyria and may also impact the liver and kidneys.

Tin (Sn) is a metal commonly used in alloys, food packaging, and electronics, and is generally considered to have low toxicity. However, certain organic tin compounds used in industrial processes can pose health risks, such as skin and eye irritation, digestive problems, and in severe cases, neurological effects. People who handle tin in manufacturing or use products containing tin should be aware of these potential risks. Reducing exposure to organic tin compounds and following safety guidelines are important to prevent tin-related toxicity.

Titanium (Ti) is a metal commonly used in medical implants, cosmetics, and paints, prized for its strength and corrosion resistance. While elemental titanium is generally considered safe, inhaling titanium dioxide (TiO₂) particles, especially in powder form, can pose respiratory hazards. People working in industries that handle titanium materials or using certain cosmetic products may be exposed. Adhering to safety guidelines and using protective equipment can help reduce the risk of inhaling titanium particles.

Uranium (U) is a radioactive element used in nuclear power and weapons. It poses health risks mainly through radiation exposure and chemical toxicity. Ingesting or inhaling uranium can damage the kidneys and increase cancer risk due to its radioactivity. The highest exposure risks occur near uranium mining and processing sites or contaminated areas. Reducing exposure involves using water filters and following safety guidelines in affected locations.