In general, Cadmium, when breathed in, can cause hazardous effects. It is a cancer hazard and a reproductive hazard. Short term high exposure can cause nausea, vomiting, cramps and diarrhea. In severe cases, death or permanent lung damage occurs. Cadmium is a probable cancer causing agent in humans.
Many scientists believe there is no safe level of exposure to a cance causing agent.
Other long term effects include permanent kidney damage, emphysema, and anemia.