Occupational Exposure to Cadmium Increases Inflammation, Leading to Cardiovascular Disease and Reducing Selenium Levels

Abstract

This study offers significant insights into the potential risks associated with oil well workers' exposure to cadmium and heart disease. The study comprised two groups of men. Ninety workers in the first group were exposed to crude oil well sites in Basra, whereas ninety persons in the control group were unexposed. The investigation involved measuring cadmium concentrations, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and selenium levels in the blood of both groups. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) was additionally quantified. Levels of cadmium and selenium were evaluated. The main finding indicated that blood cadmium concentrations were markedly elevated in oil well workers compared to controls (P < 0.0001). The study identified a strong association (P < 0.001) between elevated levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in workers and cadmium exposure. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) serves as a crucial biomarker for inflammation, with elevated levels signifying an augmented risk of cardiovascular disease. The blood tests of the workers indicated a shortage in selenium (P < 0.0001), underscoring the antagonistic interaction between cadmium and selenium. The study concludes that cadmium exposure may elevate the risk of cardiovascular disease by enhancing inflammation and compromising the body's antioxidant defenses.