Joshua Olowoyo

Background: Trace metals are required by the body in minute quantities; however, higher quantities have been reported in humans exposed to environmental pollutants. Trace metals find their way into the human system through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal absorption. Prolonged exposure to and continuous accumulation of trace metals may aggravate obesity and disrupt the endocrine system in females.Objectives: The aim of the review was to provide a documented evidence using literature on the association of trace metals (manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd)) with obesity and reproductive hormones in obese females.Materials and methods: A literature search was done using Science Direct, Google scholar, and PubMed with related key words from 2013 to 2023.Results: Findings showed that exposure to trace metals such as Pb and Cd have been associated with high body mass index (BMI). Pb has further been characterized as endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC) which disrupts the production of estradiol. Exposure to Mn has been associated with high body fat and high blood sugar levels. High Mn levels have also been reported to affect the production of estradiol and progesterone. Exposure to Mn may also affect regular menstrual cycles and fertility.Conclusion: Trace metal pollution may lead to some health issues such as reproductive disorders and other opportunistic diseases such as those associated with obesity. However, focus should be on the disease development mechanism for those living in the polluted areas. From the review, it may be wise to investigate environmental factors when deciding on the effective management of these diseases, as continuous accumulation of trace metals may invalidate the management plan.