What is Copper?
Copper is a versatile metal that you can find naturally occurring in the environment. Known for its excellent electrical conductivity, it’s often used as a striking building material and is commonly found in the construction and plumbing sectors. Beyond its industrial uses, copper is also favored for sculptures and has recently been identified for its biocidal properties. Copper compounds are utilized for applications such as treating mildew in plants and preserving materials like leather, fabrics, and wood.
How am I Exposed to Copper?
Exposure to copper, like many toxic metals, can happen through the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we consume. Copper can also make its way into the body through skin contact. If your home features copper plumbing, there’s a possibility that your drinking water could contain elevated amounts of copper. Furthermore, many lakes and streams are treated with copper to control algae growth. If you reside near a copper smelting facility, your soil could contain high levels of copper.
Those working in copper mines or in factories where copper is turned into brass or bronze are at increased risk of exposure to hazardous levels of copper. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified copper in 906 of the 1,647 National Priority Sites, indicating significant contamination concerns.
What are the Symptoms of Copper Exposure?
While the body requires small amounts of copper to function properly, excessive exposure can lead to various health issues. Inhaling copper dust or fumes can irritate your nose and throat. Ingesting copper can lead to symptoms such as:
– Nausea
– Vomiting
– Diarrhea
– Liver Damage
– Kidney Damage
– Death
Although the EPA has not officially classified copper as a human carcinogen, there are ongoing questions about its safety and long-term effects. The impact of copper on human birth outcomes is not well understood, though studies suggest it may reduce fetal growth in animals. Human implications, however, remain uncertain.
How does Copper Enter the Environment?
Copper can naturally enter the environment through processes like vegetation decay, volcanic eruptions, forest fires, and similar natural events. Human activities, including mining, manufacturing, and agriculture, can also release copper into the environment. While copper compounds tend to disintegrate in the open air, pure copper particles remain in our surroundings, including the air, food, and water we rely on.
How do I Test Myself for Copper?
Many medical laboratories offer tests to measure copper levels in the body. However, these tests cannot determine the total amount of copper present in your body or predict the potential harmful effects you might experience.
