Cadmium (Symbol= Cd, Greek kadmia earth)-A bivalent metal similar in properties to Tin. However, cadmium and its salts are poisonous. Cadmium and its compounds are used in photography, engraving and many other industrial processes.

Toxicity of Cadmium

Cadmium, its salts and other cadmium contaioing compounds or mixtures are poisonous. For example, if cadmium bromide (CdBr₂), is ingested, it causes abdominal pain, choking, increased salivation, tenesmus, and other painful symptoms. Inustrial cadmium can also cause bronchitis. The problem with cadmium is that it tends to accumulate in tissues over time. The organ that seems to be affected the most is the kidneys. In the diet cadmium is poorly absorbed, but once absorbed, it is difficult to get rid of. Vegetables and plants growing near mining villages may have increased amounts of cadmium in the soil. This can be taken up by plants via their roots. There have been a few reports of villages or towns that have suffered because of increased amounts of cadmium placed into the soil. In these areas, there was an increase in osteomalacia (inadequate mineralization of the bone) and other side effects.