Cadmium poisoning is an occupational hazard associated with industrial processes. The primary route of exposure in industrial settings is inhalation which can result initially in metal fume fever but may progress to chemical pneumonitis, pulmonary edema, and death. Tobacco smoking is the most important single source of cadmium exposure in the general population. It has been estimated that about 10 percent of the cadmium content of a cigarette is inhaled through smoking.
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