Abstract
WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS TOPIC: Lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) are widespread toxic heavy metal pollutants in the environment. Dietary intakes of Pb and Cd have been a major concern in the world. WHAT IS ADDED BY THIS REPORT? The average dietary exposure to Pb and Cd among Chinese adult males from the Sixth China Total Diet Study (TDS) was within acceptable levels, except for a potential health risk of Cd exposure among adult men in Hunan Province. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH PRACTICE? It is necessary to continuously monitor the levels of Pb and Cd in foods. More attention should be paid to dietary Cd exposure in Hunan Province.