Abstract: We described the content and distribution of cadmium (Cd) in abalone in some coastal waters in China, and assessed its health risk to human beings. The results show that: 1) The distribution of Cd content in abalone is accord with normal distribution, and the average Cd content is 0.88 mg·kg^-1, ranging from 0.06 mg·kg^-1 to 2.02 mg·kg^-1. The Cd contents (wet weight, mg·kg^-1) in abalone from provinces of Guangdong, Fujian, Shandong and Liaoning are (0.42±0.21) mg·kg^-1, (0.61± 0.27) mg·kg^-1, (1.21±0.35) mg·kg^-1 and (1.52±0.20) mg·kg^-1, respectively, with significant difference (P < 0.05);2) The Cd content in abalone, which is related with the extent of Cd pollution, is equal to that in shellfish, higher than that in fish, cephalopod and crustacean; 3) The yearly carcinogenic hazard index of Cd residue in abalone is lower than the value recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), and the Cd content is lower than the provisional tolerated weekly intake (PTWI) recommended by JECFA. The research provides references for the healthy culture and safe consumption of abalone.