HUMAN HEALTH
Mercury exposure in humans results primarily from eating fish that contain methylmercury.

• About 85% of adults in the United States consume fish and shellfish at least once a month
• 40% consume fish and shellfish weekly
• For high-end consumers, it is estimated that 87% of their exposure to mercury comes from eating seafood

Mercury is primarily a neurotoxin, which means it attacks the central nervous system. Its effects are often subtle enough not to be recognized immediately, but more and more people are learning that their health problems could be due to mercury exposure. Nervous system problems can include impaired coordination, tremors, irritability, memory loss, depression, blurred vision and a tingling sensation in the skin. Other symptoms include fatigue, headache, decreased concentration and muscle or joint pain.

Adverse health effects from mercury in fish diets can range from subtle nervous system effects to more serious poisoning, depending on how much and how often fish is eaten and how much mercury is in the fish.