Assessment of Mercury, Lead and Cadmium Levels among Children with Type 1 Diabetes in Suez Canal Region: Review Article

Background: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), a chronic illness requiring lifelong insulin treatment, is on the rise among children and adolescents globally. While, epidemiological studies on childhood T1D in Egypt are limited. Objective: This study aimed to elucidate potential links between environmental heavy metal exposure [mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd)] and diabetes onset in children diagnosed with T1DM in Suez Canal region. Methods: In our search for information on T1DM, Mercury, Lead, we used Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, and other internet databases. Additionally, the writers combed through relevant literature for references; however, they only included research that were either very recent or thorough, covering the years 2010–2023 Conclusion: While, the specific mechanisms by which heavy metals contribute to the disease are still being investigated, evidence suggests that these environmental toxins can play a significant role. Further research is crucial to understand the complex interactions between heavy metal exposure, oxidative stress, and autoimmune processes in the development and progression of T1D.