Abstract Excess cadmium (Cd) exposure produces adverse health effects in human beings. Although Cd accumulates in the liver and kidneys, it can also accumulate in other organs and tissues, depending on its chemical form. Long-term exposure to inhaled Cd from cigarette smoke and ingested from foods are the human exposures of greatest concern. For populations living in proximity to hazardous waste sites, increased dietary consumption could occur from Cd-contaminated dust on food or hands, from garden vegetables or fruits grown in Cd-contaminated soil, and from Cd-contaminated water used for drinking or garden irrigation. This article addresses human exposure to Cd, the exposure pathways for Cd in the human body, and the potential health effects of such Cd exposures.