Biomarkers of cadmium exposure and renal function in estuarine adult villagers

Objective Assess cadmium (Cd) exposure of adults living in two estuarine communities in Aratu bay, Bahia, Brazil and its association with effects on renal function. Methods This cross-sectional study included 88 volunteers aged 17-55 years, living in the following two communities: Santa Luzia (SL) located more intimately in the bay and Cotegipe (CT), a bit further and closer to a ferro-manganese alloy plant. Cd in blood (CdB) and urine (CdU), along with blood lead (PbB) levels were determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Renal function was evaluated by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and tubular cell biomarkers: retinol binding protein (RBP), beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2M), and N-acetyl-beta-d-glucosaminidase (NAG). Results The median CdU levels in villagers of the two communities were 0.20 and 0.44 mu g/g creat. and SL vs CT, respectively. Age range (> 35 years), cigarette smoking and lower family income were significantly associated with more elevated CdU levels. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated a significant association between LnCdU and LnRBP levels (beta = 0.200, 95%CI 0.074-0.365) after adjusted for sex, urinary creatinine and blood lead levels. Conclusion These data show consistent evidences of association between Cd exposure and elevated tubular cell biomarker excretion in estuarine villagers living close to an industrial site.

Automated summary

The study aimed to assess cadmium exposure and its association with renal function in adults living in two estuarine communities in Aratu bay, Bahia, Brazil. Results showed a significant association between age, smoking, lower income, and elevated cadmium levels in urine. Additionally, there was consistent evidence of an association between cadmium exposure and increased tubular cell biomarker excretion in villagers living near an industrial site.