Estimation of human health risk from exposure to methylmercury via fish consumption in Ghana

Abstract

Background. Fish advisories have been established by some nations to protect the public from the potentially harmful health effects linked to eating contaminated fish. Advisories are based on estimations of the health risks associated with concentrations of contaminating chemicals found in fish, and the average levels of consumption of fish in the population. Fish is an important source of nutrition in Ghana; however, little is known about the possible health effects associated with metal concentrations found in fish. Objective. The overall aim of the present study was to estimate metal concentrations in fishery resources so as to inform guidelines on fish consumption. Methods. We collated previously published data on levels of metals in fish in Ghana. We also estimated the potential for adverse health effects by calculating a hazard quotient (HQ) based on the reported levels of mercury in fish and either the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Reference Dose (RfD) or the FAO/WHO Expert ...