Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Irrigated Farmland and Associated Health Risks in Kano State, Nigeria: A Review

Abstract

Study’s Excerpt/Novelty Soil pollution in Kano State is primarily caused by the use of contaminated irrigation water and household/industrial sludge as fertilizers, leading to heavy metal contamination in crops. The buildup of heavy metals in soil and crops poses significant health risks and potential food insecurity, necessitating multiple research projects to assess and address the situation. Implement regular monitoring of heavy metal levels in soils and crops, and establish guidelines for safe cultivation and consumption of vegetables grown on contaminated soils to mitigate health risks. Full Abstract The primary causes of soil pollution in Kano state, which leads to heavy metal contamination in crops grown from such soils, are using contaminated water for irrigation and household and industrial sludge as fertilizers. Along waterways where untreated wastewater flows, vegetables are planted. To determine the existing situation and potential preventative and remediation measures, it has become necessary to conduct multiple research projects on the levels of heavy metals in the soil and plants grown in Kano state, Nigeria. In light of this, this study has focused on the present and potential state of heavy metal buildup in soils and farmed crops and the potential health risks that may arise from this, including food insecurity. The main findings of the conducted research were that regular monitoring of the level of heavy metals in soils and crops should be established, and guidelines for the cultivation and consumption of leafy vegetables grown on contaminated soils should be set equally to avoid health risks.