Exposure to heavy metals may increase risk of calcium buildup in the walls of coronary arteries, which can lead to chronically narrowed arteries, a new study found.

Environmental metal exposure significantly contributes to coronary calcium buildup, comparable to traditional cardiovascular risk factors like smoking. Research from Columbia University indicates that

These and other metals found in the environment can collect in the body and exacerbate heart disease, new research suggests.

People with high levels of metals found in tobacco smoke, fertilizers and batteries are more likely to develop atherosclerosis, a disease that reduces blood flow to organs.