1. Check the Cadmium Content In Household Products
Cadmium can be found in batteries, in fertilizer, in types of metal and ceramic, and in industrial components such as glazing for glass or pottery. You can check the packaging to determine any significant amounts of cadmium in those products or simply be aware of the possibility if you have a lot of them in your home or workplace.
2. Test Nearby Surfaces for Cadmium
Cadmium can build up on surfaces over time, especially in areas that are susceptible to it. Homes that are near factories or industrial plants, areas near busy highways (which can pick up cadmium from car exhaust), and areas decorated with certain kinds of paint may all contain levels of cadmium that can become dangerous if they are allowed to accumulate in the body over time. You can conduct a test of surfaces in your home with over-the-counter cadmium test kit like those from Lead Check. They're available online and at many local hardware stores. The local health inspector can also conduct more reliable tests for cadmium poisoning in your home.
3. Get Tests From Your Doctor
Levels of cadmium can be measured in samples of your blood, hair and nails. Most people consume about 30 micrograms of cadmium a day as part of their food, and about 10 percent of that remains in the body. Regular smokers absorb about the same amount from cigarette consumption. Exact levels eventually show up on blood tests, urine tests, and tests of hair and nail samples, which your doctor can pinpoint. Chest X-rays are also useful in detecting cadmium poisoning, as are tests on the kidneys and liver. Cadmium causes considerable damage to those two organs, and functionality tests can determine how far the damage has extended. Damage from cadmium cannot be treated or reversed, but the deterioration can be halted if the doctor detects the problem soon enough and you are able to significantly reduce the amount of cadmium in your environment.
