Jun 17 2010
Dangers of Nephrotoxins in the Workplace
Is your current job putting your kidney health at risk?
According to Clinical Renal Toxicology…
“Chemicals can affect the renal function or structures through a direct toxic action or through various systemic effects, such as intravascular hemolysis, rhabdomyolysis, or cardiac failure.”
Such chemicals include:
- Lead
- Cadmium
- Mercury
- Silica
Certain occupations are far more at risk than others. For instance, individuals that work in brazing or nickel-cadium battery manufacturing are exposed to high levels of Cadium. However, someone working in scrap metal recycling in Los Angeles would also likely be exposed to Cadium in the process of recovering the metal, but not as much as the person working in the manufacturing of nickel-cadium batteries.
Lead is another one you really want to watch out for. Occupations most notorious for causing lead exposure are lead battery manufacturing, soldering, smelting, radio repair, glass & ceramic manufacturing, and also paint stripping (in the case of lead-based paints).
If you are concerned about the health risks associated with your current occupation, especially pertaining to renal health, consult your employer. He or she should have additional details.
Also, check out this in-depth look at occupational renal diseases.