Cadmium (Blood) levels: what's normal, high and low
Blood cadmium reflects recent and ongoing exposure to a toxic metal that accumulates in the kidneys and bone. Tobacco smoke is the most common source; shellfish, organ meats and some grains contribute.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed October 2026
The short answer
Cadmium (Blood) is measured with a standard blood draw; no fasting is needed. A typical reference range is 0.000 – 5.00 mcg/L. At TestWell it's $84.99 all-in as Heavy Metals Panel (Basic), results in 5–7 business days, drawn at Quest or Labcorp. An out-of-range result is a prompt to look closer, not a diagnosis.
- Units
- mcg/L / ug/L / ng/mL
- Sample
- Blood draw
- Fasting
- Not required
- Results
- 5–7 business days
- Price
- $84.99
- Labs
- Quest or Labcorp
Cadmium (Blood) Reference Range
These are the typical adult reference ranges used by major US labs. Your report will include the specific range used by the lab that processed your sample.
| Population | Range |
|---|---|
| age 18+ | 0.000 – 5.00 mcg/L |
Reference ranges are educational. Always interpret your result with the specific range printed on your lab report and discuss anything outside the range with a clinician.
Have a result in hand? analyze it with your AI assistant using these reviewed ranges, or run it through our explainer. Tools: look up another marker's range · convert lab units
What your Cadmium (Blood) result may mean
Smokers typically run several times higher than non-smokers. Elevated levels are read alongside kidney markers (cystatin C, urine albumin).
Educational only — not a diagnosis. Many factors can influence a single result. Discuss anything that concerns you with a healthcare provider.
How do you get a Cadmium (Blood) test?
Order online, a licensed physician reviews the requisition, and you walk into a nearby lab for the draw. Cadmium (Blood) is available on its own or inside these panels — panels cost less per marker when you want the fuller picture.
| Option | Includes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Metals Panel (Basic) | This marker only | $84.99 |
| Men's Superpowers Panel | 36 tests | $649.99 |
| Environmental Toxins Panel | 4 tests | $1049.99 |
Quest vs. Labcorp for Cadmium (Blood): which lab should you pick?
Both are CLIA-certified national labs and the result is clinically equivalent, so pick whichever location is closer. Your report will print that lab's own reference range, which can differ slightly from the table above.
| Lab | Available | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Quest Diagnostics | Yes | $84.99 |
| Labcorp | Yes | $84.99 |
| BioReference (NY & NJ) | No | — |
Need help choosing a location? Use the lab finder to see draw sites near your ZIP.
Frequently asked
What does a high Cadmium (Blood) mean?
Smokers typically run several times higher than non-smokers. Elevated levels are read alongside kidney markers (cystatin C, urine albumin). A single result above the reference range is a prompt to look closer with a clinician — often a repeat test and related markers — not a diagnosis on its own.
Do I need a doctor's order to test my cadmium (blood)?
No. TestWell's licensed physician network reviews and approves your order — usually within minutes. You can place an order online without an in-person visit or a referral from your own doctor.
How long does it take to get Cadmium (Blood) results?
Most Cadmium (Blood) results are available in 1–3 business days after your specimen arrives at the lab. You'll get an email the moment your results are ready, with everything viewable in your TestWell portal.
How much does a Cadmium (Blood) test cost?
Our Heavy Metals Panel (Basic) starts at $84.99. That's the all-in price — no copays, no insurance hoops, no surprise bills. HSA and FSA cards are accepted.
Do I need to fast before my Cadmium (Blood) test?
Fasting is not required for the Cadmium (Blood) test. You can have your blood drawn any time of day.
Which lab will process my Cadmium (Blood) test?
Your test will be processed by Quest Diagnostics, Labcorp, or BioReference depending on which is closest to you and which lab carries the test. All three are CLIA-certified and trusted by hospitals nationwide. You'll choose your lab during checkout from 4,000+ locations.
Ready to test your cadmium (blood)?
Order in two minutes, get physician-approved, and visit a lab the same day. Starts at $84.99.