[Environmental exposure to cadmium and effects on human health. Part 3. The results of blood examinations and blood pressure in inhabitants of the cadmium-polluted Jinzu river basin in Toyama Prefecture].

3) In group IV, the mean values for serum creatinine and β2-m were significantly elevated compared to the other 3 groups. In contrast, serum uric acid concentrations decreased with increasing urinary β2 -m . 4) No significant differences were detected in the levels of serum Na, K, and Cl of the 4 groups. However, fractional sodium and potassium excretions were raised in group IV compared to the other 3 groups. Systolic and diastolic blood-pressure levels in group IV were the lowest among the 4 groups. Excessive renal sodium excretion due to renal tubular dysfunction may reduce the blood-pressure.