Toxicants in daily fresh produce in Bangladesh: A potential cause of kidney damage

Toxicant contamination poses a significant global health crisis. Various studies have found that levels of heavy metals in Bangladeshi fruits and vegetables often exceed international safety standards, particularly in fresh produce grown near industrial areas or irrigated with contaminated water [1-5]. Cadmium and lead, in particular, are frequently present at levels above the maximum allowable concentration, with some vegetables and fruits [1, 6, 7]. These metals enter the food chain through industrial emissions, wastewater irrigation, and the overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides 2, 8.

Higher ingestion of cadmium and lead is well-established as a cause of kidney dysfunction, including tubular damage, reduced glomerular filtration rate, and increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) [8]. Animal studies have found that long-term use of arsenic-contaminated rice and vegetables leads to kidney inflammation and kidney dysfunction 9. Human studies have also found elevated levels of toxic metals in the serum of CKD patients in Bangladesh 10. Even if the levels of each metal in vegetables are below the levels that cause acute toxicity, the cumulative hazard index for several metals is often higher than acceptable levels. It suggests that there is a significant risk for chronic health effects, such as kidney damage 1, 4.

This situation demands immediate attention from policymakers, health professionals, and agricultural professionals. Systematic monitoring of heavy metals in fresh produce, public awareness, and strict food safety roles are essential to protect kidney health and prevent a future epidemic of CKD [1, 2, 10].

In conclusion, the presence of toxicants in daily fresh produce is harmful to kidney health. Without prompt response, the nation may risk a surge in CKD linked to contaminated food. Therefore, this is high time to act through regulation, monitoring, and public awareness in order to protect the health of current and future generations in Bangladesh.

None.

MJU designed outlines and drafted the manuscript. AM and MJU wrote the initial draft of the manuscript. MJU, MAH, and AM reviewed the scientific contents described in the manuscript. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

The authors do not declare any conflict of interest.