Aluminium Health Concerns

Aluminium  Health Concerns

In very high doses, aluminium is associated with altered function of the blood–brain barrier.[92] A small percentage of people are allergic to aluminium and experience contact dermatitis, digestive disorders, vomiting or other symptoms upon contact or ingestion of products containing aluminium, such as antiperspirants and antacids. In those without allergies, aluminium is not as toxic as heavy metals, but there is evidence of some toxicity if it is consumed in amounts greater than 40 mg/day per kg of body mass.[93] The use of aluminium cookware has not been shown to lead to aluminium toxicity in general, however excessive consumption of antacids containing aluminium compounds and excessive use of aluminium-containing antiperspirants provide more significant exposure levels. Studies have shown that consumption of acidic foods or liquids with aluminium significantly increases aluminium absorption,[94] and maltol has been shown to increase the accumulation of aluminium in nervous and osseous tissue.[95] Furthermore, aluminium increases estrogen-related gene expression in human breast cancer cells cultured in the laboratory.[96] The estrogen-like effects of these salts have led to their classification as a metalloestrogen.

The effects of aluminium in antiperspirants have been examined over the course of decades with little evidence of skin irritation.[8] Nonetheless, its occurrence in antiperspirants, dyes (such as aluminium lake), and food additives has caused concern.[97] Although there is little evidence that normal exposure to aluminium presents a risk to healthy adults,[98] some studies point to risks associated with increased exposure to the metal.[97] Aluminium in food may be absorbed more than aluminium from water.[99] It is classified as a non-carcinogen by the US Department of Health and Human Services.[93]

In case of suspected sudden intake of a large amount of aluminium, deferoxamine mesylate may be given to help eliminate it from the body by chelation.[100]

Occupational safety[edit]
Exposure to powdered aluminium or aluminium welding fumes can cause pulmonary fibrosis. The United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set a permissible exposure limit of 15 mg/m3 time weighted average (TWA) for total exposure and 5 mg/m3 TWA for respiratory exposure. The US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommended exposure limit is the same for respiratory exposure but is 10 mg/m3 for total exposure, and 5 mg/m3 for fumes and powder.

Fine aluminium powder can ignite or explode, posing another workplace hazard.[101][102]

Alzheimer's disease[edit]
Aluminium has controversially been implicated as a factor in Alzheimer's disease.[103] According to the Alzheimer's Society, the medical and scientific opinion is that studies have not convincingly demonstrated a causal relationship between aluminium and Alzheimer's disease.[104] Nevertheless, some studies, such as those on the PAQUID cohort,[105] cite aluminium exposure as a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Some brain plaques have been found to contain increased levels of the metal.[106] Research in this area has been inconclusive; aluminium accumulation may be a consequence of the disease rather than a causal agent.[107][108]