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Why is cadmium dangerous when its dust or fumes are inhaled?
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zinc group element
Modern version of the periodic table of the elements (printable).
Inhaling cadmium dust or fumes is dangerous because it causes severe toxic effects on body tissues and functions.1
When cadmium fumes are inhaled in industrial settings, it produces an acute and extremely severe inflammation of the lungs that can be fatal. Chronic exposure through inhalation can lead to long-term health complications, including:1
- Loss of the sense of smell1
- Persistent coughing and difficulty breathing1
- Significant weight loss1
- Damage to the liver and kidneys1
Because cadmium is a zinc group element that concentrates in fumes during the processing of ores, workers in industries such as smelting must exercise extreme caution to avoid exposure to these toxic particles.12