A comprehensive evaluation of water quality and its potential health risks using physicochemical indices in coastal areas of the Gulf of Suez, Red Sea

Abstract

The Gulf of Suez plays a significant role in Egypt's economy and strategic position in the region, making it a critical waterway domestically and internationally due to being an essential hub for Egypt's oil and gas industry, housing numerous offshore oil and gas fields in the region. This paper aimed to comprehensively present the environmental status of the Gulf of Suez, the Red Sea, and pollution sources using one of the most fundamental ways to evaluate a water body. The Water Quality Index (WQI) measures nitrate levels in marine water and determines their potential harm to human health and the ecosystem. Excessive amounts of nitrate can pose non-carcinogenic health risks. Trophic state index (TSI), trophic index (TRIX), and Organic Pollution Index (OPI) are practical applications for surface water quality investigation and categorization based on contamination level. Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and Cluster Analysis (CA), were used to get better information for the studies on the water quality of surface waters. This study tested 38 subsurface locations during February 2021 for physical, chemical, microbiological, and nutritional salts. The WQI revealed that 71.23% of seawater samples were classified as having good water quality. However, TRIX and TSI metrics indicated eutrophication, with an average mean of 55.20, categorizing the water quality fairly. OPI values ranged between (3.50–3.75) which can be classified as moderate water quality. Finally, the current study's findings indicated the NO3− non-carcinogenic health hazards (HQ < 1) in all groups, but children are at a higher risk of NO3− exposure. Therefore, it can be concluded that Periodic assessments of water quality and strict regulations are necessary to safeguard this vital resource from pollution and ensure the well-being of future generations.