Metallic Contamination and its Toxicity

Heavy metals, individually & their compounds can affect human health. These are all naturally occurring substances which are often present in the environment at low levels. In high levels, these can be dangerous. Toxic heavy metals entering the ecosystem may lead to geo-accumulation, bio-accumulation and bio-magnifications. Due to their widespread use in human activities such as industry, agriculture and even as medicine numerous health risks may be associated with exposure to these substances. Their toxicity depends on several factors including the dose, route of exposure, and chemical species, as well as the age, gender, genetics, and nutritional status of exposed individuals. These metallic elements are considered systemic toxicants that are known to induce multiple organ damage, even at lower levels of exposure. Considering the importance of this subject, the present book “Metallic contamination and its Toxicity” gives an overview of the main features of heavy metal and their health consequences. The present book provides sufficient information on toxicology and risk assessment & remedial measures. This book will be useful to Environmentalist, Scientist, Researchers, Industrialists, Social workers and Toxicologists providing useful data. This will help to setup standards/guideline to protect human health & environmental hazard from heavy metal.