Toxicological Implications of Hexavalent Chromium in Humans

Heavy metals are quite important as far as industrial production is concerned. This may be attributed to several characteristic properties of the metals which include high strength, durability, high melting and/or boiling point, resistance to environmental temperatures and corrosion. Chromium (Cr) is an important heavy metal that finds wide uses in industries and manufacturing processes. Hexavalent chromium or Cr (VI) is one of the stable states of Cr with demonstrably high toxicity. The Cr (VI) is mostly released from anthropogenic sources like industrial and mining activities and is responsible for disturbing the environmental homeostasis. Cr (VI) mostly affects the environmental matrices including soil, water, and air thus leading to severe toxicity. The high mobility and solubility of Cr (VI) makes it permeable through almost all membranes including human skin. Reports indicate Cr (VI) to be a potent human carcinogen thus leading to several health issues including cancer. The present editorial discusses about the various sources of Cr (VI) toxicity in the environment along with its mode of exposure in humans. It further discusses the mechanism of Cr (VI) toxicity in humans and the effects therein. The paper concludes by highlighting the urgent need to address the situation by means of implementing strict governmental regulations along with sustainable remediation practices to control the menace.