Heavy metal | Sources | Effect(s) to human health | References |
As | Weathering of natural mineral, production of paints, dyes and soaps, arsenical pesticides and fertilizers. | Lungs, liver, bladder and skin cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurological problems, diabetes mellitus, reduced erythrocyte and leucocyte production, hypertension, nausea and vomiting, skin lesion (pigmentation and keratosis). | [40] |
Cd | Production of Cu, Pb and Zn, production of alkaline batteries and electrode components, production of pigments, plastic stabilizers, fertilizers. | Kidney and skeletal damage, disturbance in Zn metabolism, reduced haemoglobin and haematocrit concentration, stomach irritation, vomiting and diarrhea. | [34] [40] [54] |
Cu | Fossil fuel combustion, mining activities, smelting and refining process of copper, industry of copper-based material. | Kidney and liver damage, anaemia, gastrointestinal problems. | [55] |
Fe | Mining activities, weathering process. | DNA damage, gastrointestinal problems. | [40] [56] |
Li | Ceramic and glass industry, production of aluminium and batteries, production of pharmaceutical drugs. | Kidney failure. | [57] [58] |
Ni | Oil spillage, combustion of coal and fuel oil, steel industry, forest fire, rocks weathering. | Various kinds of cancer, various respiratory problems, heart disorders, birth defects. | [54] [59] |