Cadmium

Cadmium is widely used in mechanical engineering, metallurgy, the production of inorganic pigments, electrodes, and batteries. It can enter the environment due to activities such as steel production, waste incineration, welding, and plastic manufacturing. High concentrations of cadmium are also found in tobacco smoke. Additionally, cadmium is a byproduct of radioactive decay. Poisoning typically occurs through exposure to industrial fumes or inorganic cadmium compounds. Organic cadmium compounds can enter the body through food when industrial pollution contaminates the environment, allowing cadmium from soil to accumulate in vegetables and grains.