A Comprehensive Review on the Health & Ecological Impacts of Chromium, Cadmium and Lead Contamination

Abstract

Environmental systems are increasingly being polluted by heavy metals especially chromium(Cr), cadmium(Cd), and lead(Pb) which are highly dangerous to both the ecosystems and human health. A thorough literature search was carried out utilizing databases like PubMed, Scopus, Google scholar, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science in order to find recent studies on the health and ecological impacts of chromium, cadmium and lead contamination and their remediation approaches. In this review, their sources, toxicological consequences, and cleanup techniques are critically examined. The hexavalent form of chromium [Cr(VI)] is frequently discharged from the tanning and metallurgical sectors, primarily causes oxidative and carcinogenic consequences. Industrial effluents and fertilizers containing phosphate are the main sources of cadmium's environmental entry. It builds up in agricultural systems and damages the kidneys, liver, and nervous system. Lead is a persistent contaminant that impacts the neurological, hematological, cardiovascular, and endocrine systems. These metals induce oxidative damage, genomic instability and epigenetics alternations at the cellular level. The review focuses on sustainable remediation strategies such as bioremediation, phytoremediation, chemical stabilization and new methods aided by nanotechnology. To effectively regulate heavy metal contamination a multidisciplinary and integrated approach is required such as the combination of innovative methods of remediation, strengthening of regulatory policies, and environmental surveillance to ensure the protection of both ecosystems and  human health.