Chromium

Chromium

Chromium

Made famous in the movie Erin Brockovich, hexavalent chromium is toxic if inhaled or ingested. Chronic exposure has proven to lead to a number of different cancers and autoimmune disorders. Companies across the United States have lost billions of dollars in lawsuits for contaminating the environment with chromium.

Chromium - Bio Compatibility

Chromium is a very toxic metal, and chromium vapor is as deadly as mercury. This is the material from batteries that is now forbidden! Chromium grinders are a little heavy, like iron, and you can see them everywhere. Don't get fooled by their shiny looks—chromium grinders are cheap to make! You can recognize them by their weight; they feel like a brick.

What Are the Effects of Chromium Over-Exposure?

  • When inhaled, chromium compounds are respiratory tract irritants and can cause pulmonary sensitization.
  • Chronic inhalation of Cr(VI) compounds increases the risk of lung, nasal, and sinus cancer.
  • Severe dermatitis and usually painless skin ulcers can result from contact with Cr(VI) compounds.
  • Chromium compounds can be sensitizers as well as irritants.
  • DHHS, EPA, WHO, and IARC have all recognized Cr(VI) as a human carcinogen.
  • Occupational exposure to Cr(VI) compounds in a number of industries has been associated with increased risk of respiratory system cancers.
  • Latency for Cr(VI)-induced lung cancer can be greater than 20 years.
  • Some studies indicated that reversible renal tubular damage can occur after low-dose, chronic Cr(VI) exposure.
  • Occupational exposure to Cr(III) does not appear to be associated with renal effects.
  • Cr(VI) compounds can cause mild to severe liver abnormalities.
  • Some Cr(VI) compounds, such as potassium dichromate and chromium trioxide, are caustic and irritating to gastrointestinal mucosal tissue.
  • Ingestion of a lethal dose of chromate can result in cardiovascular collapse.
  • Oral exposure to Cr(VI) compounds may result in hematological toxicity.
  • Potential reproductive effects of chromium in humans have not been adequately investigated.
  • Data indicate that Cr(VI) compounds are teratogenic in animals.
  • Cr(VI) compounds induced DNA damage, gene mutation, sister chromatid exchange, and chromosomal aberrations in a number of targets, including animal cells in vivo and animal and human cells in vitro.

Source: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/csem/csem.asp?csem=10&po=10



Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.