Скачать или смотреть Main sources Of mercury poisoning; Environmental & Industrial, Consumer Products, Dietary Sources

Main Sources of Mercury Poisoning

Mercury poisoning occurs when toxic levels of mercury accumulate in the body, often through environmental or occupational exposure. Mercury exists in three forms—elemental, inorganic, and organic—and each has distinct sources and health risks.

🔍 Top Sources of Mercury Exposure
Eating Contaminated Fish and Shellfish

Methylmercury, a highly toxic organic form, bioaccumulates in large predatory fish like shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tuna.

This is the most common route of mercury exposure globally2.

Inhaling Mercury Vapor

Occurs when fluorescent bulbs, thermometers, or dental amalgams break.

Also common in industrial settings like gold mining and chemical manufacturing2.

Dental Fillings (Amalgams)

Contain elemental mercury that can slowly release vapor over time, especially during chewing or teeth grinding.

Environmental Contamination

Mercury released from coal-fired power plants, waste incinerators, and industrial processes settles into water bodies.

Microorganisms convert it into methylmercury, which enters the food chain3.

Mining Activities

Artisanal gold mining uses mercury to extract gold, often without proper safety measures.

This leads to widespread contamination of soil, water, and air2.

Improper Disposal of Mercury-Containing Products

Batteries, thermometers, and electronics can leak mercury into landfills and water sources if not properly recycled.

⚠️ Who’s Most at Risk?
Pregnant women and children: Methylmercury can cross the placenta and affect fetal brain development.

Subsistence fishing communities: Higher consumption of contaminated fish leads to elevated exposure.

Industrial workers: Especially in mining, manufacturing, and waste processing.

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