Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal with significant public health implications, primarily through dietary exposure. It is absorbed in the intestines via transporters for essential metals like iron and zinc, leading to a slow accumulation in the body due to limited excretion. Cd is classified as a human lung carcinogen, but evidence suggests it affects cancer risk beyond the lungs. Chronic exposure is linked to various cancers, including breast and liver cancer, and is associated with increased mortality from multiple causes. The body's iron stores significantly influence Cd absorption, with low iron levels increasing Cd uptake and potentially raising breast cancer risk. Cd induces cancer through interactions with essential metals and proteins, affecting DNA repair and gene expression. Experimental studies show that Cd can transform non-tumorigenic cells into malignant ones, and resistance to Cd-induced cell death is influenced by metal transporters like ZnT1. Dietary factors, such as high Cd-containing foods and poor diet quality, contribute to Cd body burden. Genetic variations in metal transporters also affect Cd levels. Epidemiological studies highlight Cd's role in liver and other cancers, particularly in Asian populations. Cd exposure is linked to increased risks of liver inflammation, fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The review emphasizes the need for interventions like iron supplementation to reduce Cd accumulation and breast cancer risk, especially in vulnerable groups. Cd's carcinogenic potential is supported by both epidemiological and experimental data, indicating its role as a multi-tissue carcinogen. Public health measures to reduce Cd exposure, such as smoking cessation and dietary awareness, are crucial for mitigating health risks.Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal with significant public health implications, primarily through dietary exposure. It is absorbed in the intestines via transporters for essential metals like iron and zinc, leading to a slow accumulation in the body due to limited excretion. Cd is classified as a human lung carcinogen, but evidence suggests it affects cancer risk beyond the lungs. Chronic exposure is linked to various cancers, including breast and liver cancer, and is associated with increased mortality from multiple causes. The body's iron stores significantly influence Cd absorption, with low iron levels increasing Cd uptake and potentially raising breast cancer risk. Cd induces cancer through interactions with essential metals and proteins, affecting DNA repair and gene expression. Experimental studies show that Cd can transform non-tumorigenic cells into malignant ones, and resistance to Cd-induced cell death is influenced by metal transporters like ZnT1. Dietary factors, such as high Cd-containing foods and poor diet quality, contribute to Cd body burden. Genetic variations in metal transporters also affect Cd levels. Epidemiological studies highlight Cd's role in liver and other cancers, particularly in Asian populations. Cd exposure is linked to increased risks of liver inflammation, fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The review emphasizes the need for interventions like iron supplementation to reduce Cd accumulation and breast cancer risk, especially in vulnerable groups. Cd's carcinogenic potential is supported by both epidemiological and experimental data, indicating its role as a multi-tissue carcinogen. Public health measures to reduce Cd exposure, such as smoking cessation and dietary awareness, are crucial for mitigating health risks.