ZINC

Zinc is used in many commercial industries and can be released into the environment during mining and smelting (metal processing) activities. People living near smelters or industries using zinc could be exposed to higher levels of zinc by drinking water, breathing air and touching soil that contains the metal. Drinking beverages stored in metal cans or drinking water that flows through metal pipes coated with zinc also are sources of zinc exposure. A short-term illness called metal fume fever can result if workers breathe very high levels of zinc dust or fumes. This condition, which usually lasts from 24 to 48 hours, causes chills, fever, excessive sweating and weakness. Long-term effects of breathing zinc dust or fumes are not known. Eating or drinking too much zinc in a short period of time can lead to adverse health effects, such as stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting. Eating large amounts of zinc for longer periods may cause anemia, nervous system disorders, damage to the pancreas and lowered levels of “good” cholesterol. There is no evidence that zinc causes cancer in humans.