The health impact of industrial soil contamination with lead, cadmium, and arsenic was assessed in a municipality in Aveyron (L1) using several complementary methods: analysis of morbidity and mortality data, health risk assessment, screening for lead poisoning, measurement of urinary cadmium levels with screening for kidney damage, and a study of exposure to cadmium and arsenic. A non-exposed reference population was selected from another municipality (L2). The risk assessment predicted an increased risk of lead poisoning, kidney damage, and skin cancer. No cases of lead poisoning were identified; 23% of adults in L1 had elevated cadmium levels, 14% of whom had markers of kidney damage. Adults without occupational exposure had higher cadmium levels in their urine than those in L2. Length of residence and self-consumption of local products were significantly associated with elevated cadmium levels in urine. Arsenic levels in urine were slightly higher in L1 but lower than those of the French population. Excessive cadmium exposure, which can cause kidney damage, has been demonstrated. This exposure is likely due in part to soil contamination via the consumption of local produce and exposure to dust. Recommendations have been made to reduce exposure and limit its health consequences. (R.A.)