College of Applied Sciences Organizes a Workshop on Preservatives and Heavy Metals and Their Relationship to Modern Diseases

The College of Applied Sciences organized a scientific workshop entitled “Preservatives and Heavy Metals and Their Relationship to Modern Diseases,” presented by Assistant Lecturer Noor Khalid Yaseen and Assistant Lecturer Wasan Jaafar Sadiq. The workshop was held as part of the college’s efforts to enhance health and environmental awareness among staff and students.

The workshop addressed the concept of preservatives as chemical compounds added to foods and pharmaceuticals to extend shelf life and prevent the growth of microorganisms. It also highlighted that excessive use of these substances may be associated with certain health problems, such as allergic reactions and hormonal imbalance disorders.

The workshop further discussed heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, explaining their dietary and environmental sources, the mechanisms of their accumulation in body tissues, and their potential negative effects on the nervous system, kidneys, and blood.

The presenters clarified that chronic exposure to preservatives and heavy metals may contribute to an increased risk of some modern diseases, including heart diseases, diabetes, and nervous system disorders, which necessitates adopting preventive measures to reduce exposure.

At the conclusion of the workshop, emphasis was placed on the importance of reducing the consumption of processed foods, adhering to the permissible limits of preservatives, monitoring water and food sources to minimize heavy metal contamination, as well as enhancing health awareness and supporting scientific research related to public health.