Heavy Metal Exposure and Cancer Risk: A Zoological Perspective on Human Health Implications

Abstract

Heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) are persistent environmental pollutants with significant health risks to humans and wildlife. Chronic exposure to these metals is strongly associated with carcinogenesis, mediated through oxidative stress, DNA damage, and disruption of cellular signaling pathways. This review adopts a zoological perspective to explore the shared vulnerabilities of humans and animals to heavy metal toxicity, emphasizing bioaccumulation in food chains and its cascading effects on ecosystems. Understanding these mechanisms offers valuable insights into preventive strategies, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary approaches to mitigate cancer risks and promote environmental and public health.