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Heavy Metals

Cadmium Test

As part of comprehensive health screening, a cadmium blood test helps you understand your environmental exposure to this toxic heavy metal. Monitoring cadmium levels supports informed decisions about your long-term health.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

No established reference range

There is no reference interval for cadmium in urine that we can show. The only health-based value (HBM-I, German HBM Commission) is explicitly a "check value": exceeding it is grounds for a repeat measurement, not a diagnosis. The Commission states that exceeding it carries "no relevantly raised risk" of kidney damage. It can also only be assessed together with your urinary creatinine, your smoking status and the trend over time — none of which a single measurement provides. One raised result therefore says little. Discuss it with your doctor.

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Cadmium: what this test measures

This test measures the concentration of cadmium in your blood. Cadmium enters the body primarily through cigarette smoke, contaminated food such as shellfish and organ meats, and occupational exposure in battery manufacturing or smelting.

Cadmium: why this value matters

Cadmium accumulates in the body over time and can be particularly harmful to the kidneys and bones. Long-term exposure is often linked to kidney damage, bone demineralization, and respiratory issues. Early detection allows for timely reduction of exposure.

Cadmium: how the blood test works

Referral
No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
The draw
A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
Which test
on its own €59,-
Where
650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites

Cadmium: when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be recommended if you smoke or are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke, work in industries involving cadmium, or have unexplained kidney or bone issues. Consult a healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

Cadmium: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Low levels of cadmium are generally not a cause for concern and may indicate minimal exposure.

High Levels

Kidney dysfunction, bone pain and fragility, chronic cough, shortness of breath, fatigue.

Cadmium: lifestyle and this value

Quitting smoking is the most effective way to reduce cadmium exposure. Eat a varied diet rich in calcium, iron, and zinc, which may help reduce cadmium absorption. Follow workplace safety protocols if you work with cadmium-containing materials.

Cadmium: frequently asked questions

What is the biggest source of cadmium exposure?

Cigarette smoking is the largest single source of cadmium exposure for the general population. Smokers typically have cadmium levels two to three times higher than non-smokers.

Does cadmium leave the body naturally?

Cadmium has a very long biological half-life of 10 to 30 years, meaning it accumulates in the body over time. The kidneys and liver are the primary organs where cadmium is stored.

Can diet affect cadmium levels?

Yes, certain foods such as shellfish, organ meats, and some leafy vegetables can contain cadmium. A diet adequate in iron, calcium, and zinc may help reduce cadmium absorption. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Medical reviewer

Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
CIBG Ministerie van Volksgezondheid,
Welzijn en Sport Official BIG registration BIG 49928676701 Opens in a new tab

Cadmium

€59,-