The largest outbreak of cadmium poisoning thus far documented occurred in:

The largest documented outbreak of cadmium poisoning occurred in Japan, specifically in the Minamata Bay area, during the 1950s and 1960s. This incident is linked to industrial discharges from a chemical factory that released cadmium into the bay, leading to severe contamination of the local fish and shellfish. Many residents who relied on these contaminated seafood for their diet developed serious health issues, including kidney damage and bone deformities, characteristic of cadmium toxicity.

The event is a significant example of environmental contamination and its dire impacts on public health. Awareness and understanding of this event have influenced global industrial practices and environmental regulations, highlighting the importance of monitoring and controlling hazardous substances to prevent similar health crises in the future.

Understanding the history of cadmium poisoning in Japan is essential for recognizing the risks associated with heavy metals and the critical need for environmental health monitoring and policies.