Sources and Effect of Mercury on Human Health

Abstract

One of the common environmental pollutants that naturally exists on Earth as a result of volcanic eruptions and soil erosion is mercury. Additionally, a variety of human activities, such as the burning of coal in power plants, the smelting of zinc, the artisanal gold mining industry, etc., emit this environmental contaminant. Mercury can be found in various forms, including elemental, organic, and inorganic, and when consumed or administered, it can have a variety of negative health impacts. Mercury can be found in a variety of places, including soil, fish (such as swordfish and shellfish), and more. The mercury is bioaccumulated by the fish through its consumption of planktons and smaller fish. Because of various anthropogenic activities, there is mercury in the soil, which is then absorbed by the rice that is planted there. People who work in dental clinics, in companies that produce pesticides and insecticides, and in alkaline alkali factories are exposed to mercury. When consumed directly, the element is non-toxic; nevertheless, inhaling its vapor or agitated form makes it hazardous. It damages the brain system, liver, kidneys, and lungs. It is very harmful to children’s central and peripheral nervous systems. Fetuses are exposed to mercury through placental blood, and nursing newborns also experience serious side effects since they receive mercury through their mothers’ milk. This review provides an overview of mercury’s physico-chemical characteristics. In our environment, it draws attention to the various visible and unseen sources of mercury. It explains mercury’s pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects. It also has hazardous impact on humans at all ages.

DOI - https://doi.org/10.65525/SVUP.9788198471956.2025.46-54