This study by Agostino Di Ciaula measured the concentrations of metals in toenails of 366 children, and results showed that nearby cement plants are correlated with an increase in toxic metals in the bodies of children. The findings showed bioaccumulation of nickel, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic in children living close to cement plants. This is attributed to the high concentration of PM10 in those areas due to cement manufacturing pollution.

Di Ciaula concludes that cement plants in urban and residential areas are dangerous, especially to children that are exposed to the pollution.