Heavy metal

Sources

Effect(s) to human health

References

Mn

Rocks weathering, wastewater discharges.

Disturbances in circulatory system, brain damage, promote tumour development, hypotension, and retard foetus development.

[56]

Pb

Production of batteries, smelting and metal plating process, exhaust from vehicles, pigment additives, gasoline, fertilizers and herbicides.

Brain and kidney damage, hypertension, arthritis, mental retardation, birth defects, autism, hyperactivity, psychosis, dyslexia, hallucinations, insomnia, dizziness, muscular weakness, fatigue, allergies, headache, appetite loss, weight loss.

[40]

V

Weathering of earth crust, volcanic emissions, metallurgical works, crude oil and coal burning.

Potent inhibitor of many enzymes and cholesterol biosynthesis, reduce plasma cholesterol level, respiratory irritation.

[59] [60]

Zn

Mining activities, smelting process, steel production, coal burning.

Nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, lethargy, and fatigue.

[61]