What is the effect of cadmium on humans?

Acute inhalation exposure (high levels over a short period of time) to cadmium can result in flu-like symptoms (chills, fever, and muscle pain) and can damage the lungs. Chronic exposure (low level over an extended period of time) can result in kidney, bone and lung disease.

Is cadmium a human carcinogen?

EPA has classified cadmium as a Group B1, probable human carcinogen.

How much cadmium is toxic to humans?

An 8-hour TWA (time-weighted-average) exposure level of 5 mg/m has been estimated for lethal effects of inhalation exposure to cadmium, and exposure to 1 mg/m is considered to be immediately dangerous to human health (Friberg, 1950).

Does cadmium cause birth defects?

Cadmium and cadmium compounds are on the Proposition 65 list because they can cause cancer. Exposure to cadmium and cadmium compounds can cause cancer of the lung and may cause cancer of the prostate and kidney. Cadmium is also on the Proposition 65 list because it can cause birth defects or other reproductive harm.

How are mutagens and teratogens related to cancer?

Studies show that up to 90 percent of all mutagens are carcinogens. The theory that mutation sets the stage for cancer development is based on the fact that many mutagenic physical and chemical agents also are carcinogenic. Mutations giving rise to cancer usually occur in somatic cells.

Are there any chemicals that are carcinogenic to humans?

Although a number of chemicals that occur, or have occurred, in industry have been demonstrated to have carcinogenic activity in man, demonstra- tions of teratogenic, and especially of mutagenic, activities on man within industrial compounds are rarer or non-existent.

How many mutagens are considered to be carcinogens?

Nevertheless, the mark of carcinogenicity is an increase in malignant tumors. For a chemical to be considered a human carcinogen under expected conditions of exposure, it also must be genotoxic. Studies show that up to 90 percent of all mutagens are carcinogens.

When is a mutagen toxic to the reproductive system?

In WHMIS, mutagens are classified as VERY TOXIC if they are shown to affect cells of the reproductive system (sperm and egg cells – the cells from which children develop). Mutagens are classified as TOXIC if studies show genetic changes only in cells (e.g. skin or lung cells) that are not part of the reproductive system.