Chronic exposure to low levels of lead, cadmium and arsenic through commonly used household items, air, water, soil and food is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, according to a new scientific statement by the American Heart Association.

The scientific statement, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, outlines global epidemiologic research confirming that lead, cadmium and arsenic are associated with premature death, due in large part to increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease, stroke and peripheral artery disease. It showed that these metals interfere with essential biological functions. For example, lead and cadmium accumulate in the body and remain in bones and organs for decades.