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Heavy Metals

Cadmium

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.

What It 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.

Why It 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.

When to Test

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.

Symptoms

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.

Lifestyle Tips

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.

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.

Cadmium

€59,-