[Heavy metals in the environment and their impact on the organism]

Heavy metals are chief contaminants of the environment, having an adverse effect on the population, especially on children. Results of hygienic and clinical observations suggest to us that compounds of heavy metals might cause changes in functions of metabolism and structure of some organs and systems raising the level of morbidity. It is necessary that a common system be set up of investigations, based on achievements of hygienic science both in this country and abroad; comprehensive investigations designed to study effects of heavy metals on human health be conducted; methodological approaches to the assessment of complex studies be worked out.