The Deadly Connection Between Heavy Metals and Heart Health

Chronic exposure to low levels of lead, cadmium and arsenic through commonly used household items, air, water, soil and food is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a new American Heart Association scientific statement published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

This scientific statement reviews evidence linking chronic exposure to low or moderate levels of three contaminant metals — lead, cadmium and arsenic — to cardiovascular diseases including coronary artery disease, stroke and peripheral artery disease. It highlights clinical and public health implications. The field of environmental cardiology identifies exposure to pollutants including contaminant metals as modifiable risks for cardiovascular disease.

While exposure and risk occur across diverse populations regardless of socioeconomic level, some people experience greater exposure to toxic metals, according to the statement. Risk of exposure is higher for people who live closer to major roadways, industrial sources and hazardous waste sites; reside in older houses; or in areas where environmental regulations are poorly enforced and responses to community complaints are inadequate.

The scientific statement outlines global epidemiologic research confirming that lead, cadmium and arsenic are associated with premature death, due in large part to increased cardiovascular disease risk.

Reference:

Contaminant Metals as Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association,Circulation,DOI 10.1161/JAHA.123.0298521