Effects of Nickel Exposure
Nickel is a carcinogenic metal that poses significant environmental and occupational health risks. According to the New York University School of Medicine, long-term exposure to nickel can increase the risk of lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurological issues, developmental problems in children, and high blood pressure.
Exposure to nickel generates free radicals, leading to oxidative damage, and can also harm the kidneys and liver. In 2012, Egypt’s Ministry of Agriculture conducted liver function tests on 25 nickel-plating workers, revealing that most of them had compromised liver function.
Researchers at Dominican University of California have linked nickel exposure to breast cancer. Nickel is believed to bind to estrogen receptors, mimicking estrogen’s actions. Since lifetime estrogen exposure is a known risk factor for breast cancer, this “imposter estrogen” also contributes to the risk.
Additionally, nickel is a toxin that can severely damage reproductive health, potentially leading to infertility, miscarriage, birth defects, and nervous system defects.
Why is Nickel Toxic?
Having toxic metals in your body is akin to putting sugar in a gas tank; the body isn’t designed to process these materials, leading to severe health issues. The National Cancer Institute at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences explains that metals are biologically active and not inert.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that nickel toxicity involves a multi-tiered attack. It causes essential metal imbalances, disrupts enzyme action and regulation, and contributes to significant oxidative stress.
Occupational Exposure to Nickel
Nickel is widely used in industries such as refining, electroplating, and welding. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health warns that workers inhaling nickel-laden dust and fumes are at increased risk for lung cancer and fibrosis.
The rise of nanoparticles has introduced new health concerns. South Africa’s National Institute for Occupational Health recently linked the death of a 38-year-old man to respiratory distress caused by inhaling nickel nanoparticles during industrial manufacturing.
Casual Exposure to Nickel
Did you know that orthodontic braces may contain nickel? The United Kingdom’s Bristol Dental Hospital warns that corrosion and subsequent ingestion of nickel from braces can be a concern due to their contact with saliva, acidic fluids, and temperature changes.
Nickel is also commonly found in jewelry because of its shiny appearance. However, “nickel-free” jewelry is available for the 10-20% of the population who are sensitive to nickel and may develop a rash upon skin contact.
Mitigating Nickel Exposure
Tests can determine the presence of nickel in the body, but predicting the resulting adverse health effects is challenging. Minimizing exposure is a prudent approach. Most people can avoid nickel-containing jewelry, but those working in affected industries should seriously consider their potential health risks.
There is a silver lining. A study from Saudi Arabia confirmed the toxic effects of nickel nanoparticles on the airway and lungs. Interestingly, researchers found that introducing curcumin reduced toxicity and oxidative stress.
