Human Health Effects of Oral Exposure to Chromium: A Systematic Review of the Epidemiological Evidence

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#humans #chromium #environmental-exposure #female #pregnancy

Human Health Effects of Oral Exposure to Chromium: A Systematic Review of the Epidemiological Evidence

Sazakli et al., 2024 | Int J Environ Res Public Health | Systematic Review

Citation

Sazakli Eleni. Human Health Effects of Oral Exposure to Chromium: A Systematic Review of the Epidemiological Evidence. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2024-Mar-27;21(4). doi:10.3390/ijerph21040406

Abstract

The toxicity and carcinogenicity of hexavalent chromium via the inhalation route is well established. However, a scientific debate has arisen about the potential effects of oral exposure to chromium on human health. Epidemiological studies evaluating the connection between ingested chromium and adverse health effects on the general population are limited. In recent years, a wealth of biomonitoring studies has emerged evaluating the associations between chromium levels in body fluids and tissues and health outcomes. This systematic review brings together epidemiological and biomonitoring evidence published over the past decade on the health effects of the general population related to oral exposure to chromium. In total, 65 studies were reviewed. There appears to be an inverse association between prenatal chromium exposure and normal fetal development. In adults, parameters of oxidative stress and biochemical alterations increase in response to chromium exposure, while effects on normal renal function are conflicting. Risks of urothelial carcinomas cannot be overlooked. However, findings regarding internal chromium concentrations and abnormalities in various tissues and systems are, in most cases, controversial. Environmental monitoring together with large cohort studies and biomonitoring with multiple biomarkers could fill the scientific gap.

Key Findings

Environmental monitoring together with large cohort studies and biomonitoring with multiple biomarkers could fill the scientific gap.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 65
Age Range See abstract
Condition stress

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Chromium
  • Environmental Exposure
  • Female
  • Pregnancy
  • Administration, Oral

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Systematic Review, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Vertical: chromium

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09