Exposure to tungsten - common in mobile phones, jewellery and light bulbs - could severely increase the risk of suffering serious health problems, scientists have found.

High levels of the precious metal in the body could double the risk of suffering a stroke, researchers at Exeter University have said. Current exposure to tungsten is low, despite its prevalence in a slew of everyday items and appliances.

But experts say they are concerned a gradual increase could pose a health risk to future generations, as advances in technology continue to drive demand for tungsten. Lead author of the research, Dr Jessica Tyrrell, said: "Whilst currently very low, human exposure to tungsten is set to increase.

"We're not yet sure why some members of the population have higher levels of the metal in their make-up, and an important step in understanding and preventing the risks it may pose to health will be to get to the bottom of how it's ending up in our bodies."

The research used data from the US-based National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, analysing information from more than 8500 participants aged between 18 and 74 over a 12-year period. According to figures from the World Health Organisation, a stroke is currently the second leading cause of death in the Western world, behind heart disease. It is also the leading cause of disability in adults, often resulting in loss of motor control and depression.