FAQs
1. Are there natural ways to remove heavy metals from the environment?
Yes, methods like phytoremediation—use of plants to absorb or stabilize heavy metals, and bioremediation—use of microorganisms to transform or immobilize heavy metals, are active areas of research and application. Although environmentally friendly, effectiveness of these methods varies depending on the specific metal and environmental conditions.
2. What are some practical steps individuals can take to reduce their exposure to heavy metals?
To reduce heavy metal exposure, individuals can filter tap water, eat a varied diet to avoid over-reliance on single food sources that might accumulate metals (e.g., certain fish like King Mackerel), and be mindful of traditional remedies as they often have heavy metals.
3. Does the presence of heavy metals affect the diagnostic testing for antimicrobial resistance in clinical settings?
Yes, heavy metals might interfere with the growth of certain bacteria on culture media, or affect the activity of antibiotics in in vitro sensitivity tests if not properly controlled. This can lead to inaccurate assessment of bacterial resistance levels or even influence the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values observed.
Reference
1. Jomova, K., Alomar, S. Y., Nepovimova, E., et al. (2025). Heavy metals: toxicity and human health effects. Archives of toxicology, 99(1), 153-209.
2. Vats, P., Kaur, U. J., & Rishi, P. (2022). Heavy metal‐induced selection and proliferation of antibiotic resistance: a review. Journal of applied microbiology, 132(6), 4058-4076.
3. Balta, I., Lemon, J., Gadaj, A., et al. (2025). The interplay between antimicrobial resistance, heavy metal pollution, and the role of microplastics. Frontiers in Microbiology, 16, 1550587.
4. Onyena, A. P., Folorunso, O. M., Nwanganga, N., et al. (2024). Engaging one health in heavy metal pollution in some selected Nigerian Niger delta cities. A Systematic review of pervasiveness, bioaccumulation and subduing environmental health challenges. Biological Trace Element Research, 202(4), 1356-1389.