Association of environmental metallic and metalloid contaminants with cardiovascular and all-cause mortality: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

Non-essential environmental metallic and metalloid contaminant exposure is associated with a higher risk of CVDs and all-cause mortality, whereas essential metallic and metalloid may confer a protective benefit.Non-essential metallic and metalloid contaminants, such as arsenic, lead, and cadmium, raise the possibility of CVD events, CHD, and all-cause mortality, with lead and cadmium associated with higher risk of stroke.Essential metallic and metalloid contaminants like zinc and selenium can protect against CVD events and CHD, but too much selenium or copper may be harmful.