Question

What is the main source of cadmium exposure for the general population?

• A. Inhalation of dust
• B. Drinking water
• C. Food
• D. Occupational exposure

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Food

• The margin of safety between the present daily intake of cadmium in the diet and the intake that can result in effects is very narrow and, for highly exposed sub populations, even non-existent.

• Population groups at risk include the elderly, people with diabetes, and smokers. Women may be at increased risk because they have lower iron stores than men and, consequently, absorb more cadmium at the same level of exposure.

• Food is the main source of cadmium exposure in the general population (representing >90% of the total intake in non-smokers).

• In heavily contaminated areas, dust resuspension can constitute a substantial part of the crop contamination and exposures via inhalation and digestion.