Why beryllium can cause cancer?

Beryllium is considered carcinogenic (cancer-causing) due to its potential to cause lung cancer when inhaled as airborne particles.

The primary route of exposure to beryllium that leads to cancer is through the inhalation of dust or fumes containing beryllium compounds. Once inhaled, the particles can become embedded in the lungs, leading to an immune response.

The New York State Health Research Institute has found that beryllium may cause pneumonia and lung cancer by stimulating the immune system’s response and affecting DNA methylation.The human body recognizes beryllium as a foreign substance and tries to eliminate it, but for some individuals, this immune response becomes chronic and can lead to a condition known as chronic beryllium disease (CBD), which is characterized by the formation of granulomas (inflammatory nodules) in the lungs. In some cases, this chronic inflammation can progress to lung cancer.

The exact mechanism by which beryllium causes cancer is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve genetic changes in the lung cells, possibly as a result of the body’s attempt to encapsulate the particles, leading to mutations that can result in uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation.

Beryllium’s carcinogenic properties are a concern primarily for workers in industries where beryllium and its compounds are processed, such as aerospace, nuclear energy, and electronics. Workers in these industries must take precautions to minimize exposure to beryllium, such as wearing protective equipment and following strict safety protocols to reduce the risk of inhalation or skin contact with beryllium-containing materials.

Routes of exposure

Exposure to beryllium can occur through several routes, primarily in occupational settings where beryllium and its compounds are used or processed. The most common routes of exposure include:

1. Inhalation: This is the primary route of exposure and the most hazardous. Beryllium dust, fumes, or mists can be generated during activities such as machining, grinding, polishing, welding, or sanding beryllium-containing materials. These particles can become airborne and, when inhaled, can deposit in the lungs and cause health problems.
2. Skin Contact: Beryllium can also enter the body through the skin if workers handle materials containing beryllium without appropriate protective measures, such as gloves. While skin absorption is a less significant route of exposure compared to inhalation, it can contribute to overall exposure levels, especially if there is damage to the skin, such as cuts or abrasions.
3. Ingestion: Although less common, beryllium can be ingested if workers consume food, drinks, or smoke cigarettes without washing their hands after handling beryllium-containing materials. This can result in beryllium being transferred from the hands to the mouth.

Occupations and industries where beryllium exposure is a concern include:

1. Aerospace and defense: Beryllium is used in alloys for parts in aircraft and satellites due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and thermal stability.
2. Nuclear energy: Beryllium is used in nuclear reactors as a reflector or moderator for neutrons.
3. Metalworking: Beryllium copper alloys are used in various applications, including electronics, automotive parts, and tools, due to their high conductivity and strength.
4. Laboratory work: Beryllium may be used in research settings, particularly in x-ray windows and as a component in some detectors.
5. Cement and glass production: Beryllium compounds can be found in some ceramics and glass products.

To minimize the risk of exposure, it is essential for workers in these industries to follow safety protocols, such as using local exhaust ventilation, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) like respirators and gloves, and practicing good hygiene, including thorough handwashing and changing out of contaminated clothing before eating or smoking. Regular monitoring and health surveillance programs can also help identify potential exposure and related health issues early on.

If you accidentally inhale beryllium, it is important to take the following steps:

1. Remove yourself from the source of exposure immediately to prevent further inhalation.
2. Seek fresh air to breathe and try to calm yourself to help maintain a regular breathing pattern.
3. If you experience any difficulty breathing, coughing, or chest pain, seek medical attention immediately. Inform the healthcare provider that you may have been exposed to beryllium.
4. If you have been exposed to beryllium dust or fumes and do not have immediate symptoms, it is still advisable to contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible. They can provide guidance on whether any testing or monitoring is necessary and can advise on the potential health risks associated with your exposure.
5. Follow any recommendations provided by the healthcare professional, which may include chest X-rays or lung function tests, to monitor your respiratory health.
6. Keep track of any symptoms you experience, such as shortness of breath, cough, fatigue, or weight loss, and report them to your healthcare provider.
7. If you are employed in an industry where beryllium exposure is a risk, report the incident to your employer and follow any workplace protocols for exposure incidents.

Beryllium-related diseases can take years to develop, so even if you do not experience immediate symptoms, it is crucial to monitor your health and maintain regular check-ups with a healthcare provider experienced in occupational health. Early detection and intervention are key to managing any potential long-term effects of beryllium exposure.