Strontium — is a heavy metal from the alkaline earth metals group, which occurs in nature in the form of salts (carbonates, sulfates).
Unlike calcium, with which it is chemically similar, strontium is not an essential trace element and does not perform a physiological role in the body. However, it can replace calcium in bone tissue, which under certain conditions makes it potentially both beneficial and toxic.
Sources and pathways of entry
Strontium enters the body through:
- drinking water and food grown in soils with high strontium content;
- air and dust in areas of mining or processing of ores;
- industrial emissions (metallurgy, ceramics, glass, fireworks);
- radioactive isotopes of strontium (especially 90Sr), formed during nuclear reactions.
Toxic effects of strontium
Excessive accumulation of strontium disrupts calcium metabolism, as the element competes with calcium for incorporation into bone tissue.
This leads to changes in bone strength and can cause skeletal development disorders in children.
Main manifestations of exposure:
- osteoporosis-like changes and deformation of bones;
- slowed growth in children with chronic strontium exposure;
- risk of anemia and disorders in bone marrow function;
- with radioactive exposure — DNA damage, development of oncological diseases.
Particular danger of radioactive isotopes
Strontium-90 is a product of nuclear explosions and accidents at nuclear power plants.
This isotope has a half-life of about 29 years and can accumulate in bone tissue, irradiating it from within. This increases the risk of osteosarcomas, leukemias, and other oncological diseases. For this reason, strontium-90 is considered one of the most dangerous radionuclides for humans.
Applications and precautions
Some strontium compounds have found applications in medicine and industry:
- strontium sulfate and carbonate are used in the production of ceramics and glass;
- strontium nitrate is used in pyrotechnics (produces bright red flames);
- strontium isotopes are studied in medicine for the therapy of bone metastases;
- strontium ranelate was previously used in the treatment of osteoporosis but was restricted due to the risk of side effects on the heart.
Conclusion
Strontium — is a heavy metal that is not an essential element for the body. Its soluble compounds and radioactive isotopes are toxic and pose a serious threat to health. The greatest danger is associated with the strontium-90 isotope, which can accumulate in bones and cause oncological diseases.
At the same time, limited and controlled use of some strontium compounds is permissible in industry and medicine.