On 11 January an Associated Press investigation produced the most recent expose’ about unsafe practices of businesses in China threatening human health within and beyond China’s borders. Following earlier revelations; such as the presence of toxic melamine in milk, infant formula, and pet foods; the new AP investigation revealed substitution of the toxic metal lead (Pb), banned from jewelry, with the toxic metal cadmium (Cd). The jewelry containing cadmium most notably includes items marketed to children, such as sparkling charm bracelets and shiny pendants, and imported into the U.S.
Cadmium and lead both are highly toxic metals, and both may adversely affect children’s brains. Unlike lead and most of its compounds, cadmium and its compounds include potent cancer-causing agents. If you are interested in learning more about the properties of cadmium and its compounds, including potential modes of entry into the body, distribution to target tissues and organs, residence time, storage locations, excretion, and toxic properties: the 25-page Toxicological Profile of Cadmium and Compounds, prepared under contract by RAM TRAC Corporation, is available in pdf for purchase from CHRAM (see below).
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