A review on human health consequences of metals exposure to e-waste in China

Environ Pollut. 2015 Jan:196:450-61. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2014.11.004.

Abstract

As the world's the largest dumping ground for e-waste, much of the population in China is exposed to heavy metals due to informal e-waste recycling processes. We reviewed recent studies on body burdens and human health effects of heavy metals from the major e-waste recycling sites in China. The results showed that the residents in the e-waste recycling sites are facing a potential higher daily intake of heavy metals. Moreover, heavy metals had entered subjects' bodies (the collected 5 tissue samples). Additionally,individual exposure to heavy metals in e-waste has also caused negative health outcomes,especially in neonates and children. We also recorded plausible outcomes associated with exposure to e wast (to heavy metals). A precautionary approach toward exposure, especially in neonates and children, therefore seems warranted.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Body Burden
  • China
  • Electronic Waste*
  • Environmental Exposure / statistics & numerical data*
  • Hazardous Substances / analysis*
  • Hazardous Substances / toxicity
  • Humans
  • Metals, Heavy / analysis*
  • Metals, Heavy / toxicity
  • Recycling

Substances

  • Hazardous Substances
  • Metals, Heavy