Humans are exposed to heavy metals through a variety of ways such as inhalation of contaminated air, intake of polluted water and food, skin contact, and occupational exposure. At sufficient levels, heavy metals can elicit detrimental health effects, generally interfering with cellular function, damaging metabolic processes, initiating carcinogenesis, and promoting overall organ system dysfunction.
To protect patients from heavy metal exposure near the Salton Sea, doctors and health workers can treat symptoms early by testing for metals in blood, promoting diets that limit metal absorption, and giving clean water. Communities can also prevent harm by using face masks like N95s, staying indoors when dust levels are high, planting vegetation, and supporting local dust control projects that stop toxic dust from spreading.