Sources and Potential Exposure
The largest sources of airborne cadmium in the environment are the burning of fossil fuels such as coal or
oil, and incineration of municipal waste materials. Cadmium may also be emitted into the air from zinc,
lead, or copper smelters. (1)
For nonsmokers, food is generally the largest source of cadmium exposure. Cadmium levels in some foods
can be increased by the application of phosphate fertilizers or sewage sludge to farm fields. (1)
Smoking is another important source of cadmium exposure. Smokers have about twice as much cadmium
in their bodies as do nonsmokers. (1)