Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally, and research has shown that environmental pollutants like heavy metals can increase a person’s risk of heart disease. A study conducted by researchers at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health confirmed this link by analyzing data from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA), which tracked over 6,000 adults from 2000 to 2002. The study participants, who were from diverse ethnic backgrounds, were free from clinical cardiovascular disease and underwent testing to determine levels of various metals in their urine.
The researchers found that exposure to certain metals, such as cadmium, tungsten, uranium, cobalt, copper, and zinc, was associated with increased buildup of calcium in the coronary arteries, a sign of atherosclerosis. Specifically, urinary cadmium levels were 51% higher at baseline and 75% higher over a 10-year period, while tungsten, uranium, and cobalt also showed significant increases in coronary artery calcium levels. Conversely, copper and zinc levels were associated with decreased coronary artery calcium levels, indicating a protective effect against atherosclerosis.
Demographically, the study found higher urinary metal levels in older participants, those of Chinese descent, and those with less education. Participants from Los Angeles, CA, had higher levels of tungsten and uranium, as well as some cadmium, cobalt, and copper. These findings highlight disparities in exposure based on location, previous exposures, and behaviors like smoking. Strategies to reduce exposure to these metals include quitting smoking, testing private well water, using air purifiers, and maintaining a nutritious diet rich in iron, calcium, and B vitamins.
Dr. Katlyn E. McGraw, the lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of environmental protection and regulation to protect communities from metal exposure. While individual measures can help reduce exposure, overarching policies and regulations are needed to address widespread metal pollution in air, water, and food systems. Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, a board-certified interventional cardiologist, noted that environmental exposures, especially pollution, contribute to cardiovascular disease risk. The study’s findings underscore the need for public policy initiatives to reduce contamination and prevent population exposure to these pollutants.
Rebecca Fuoco, director of Science Communications at the Green Science Policy Institute, advised individuals to limit their exposure to metal pollutants by reducing household dust through regular cleaning and removing shoes at the door. Handwashing before eating is also important to minimize inadvertent ingestion of contaminants. Overall, the study’s results emphasize the impact of metal exposure on cardiovascular health and the need for environmental protection measures to reduce risks associated with atherosclerosis and heart disease.
