Cadmium Toxicity in Children and Its Detection Using Colorimetric and Fluorimetric Methods

Cadmium is a highly toxic heavy metal that poses severe health risks, particularly to children, due to their increased hand-to-mouth behavior and higher gastrointestinal absorption rates. Once absorbed, cadmium primarily accumulates in the kidneys, leading to progressive toxicity and renal dysfunction. Moreover, it has been linked to neurodevelopmental impairments and cognitive decline, raising significant concerns about its long-term impact on pediatric health. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of cadmium-induced toxicity, with a particular focus on its detrimental effects on kidney function and neurodevelopment in children. Additionally, it highlights recent advancements (2021-2024) in fluorometric and colorimetric chemosensors for Cd²⁺ detection, emphasizing their applications in biological and environmental monitoring. The obtained detection limit of these chemosensor is significantly lower than the maximum permissible level of 3 µg/L for Cd²⁺ ions in drinking water, as recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). By covering the latest research, this review aims to enhance understanding of cadmium exposure risks while promoting the development of highly sensitive and efficient detection methods for improved public health protection.