Health Risks Evaluation of Heavy Metals in Seafood

Abstract

ABSTRACT Fish is an excellent, low-fat source of protein and provides many benefits, such as contributing to low blood cholesterol. Heavy metals are increasingly being released into natural waters from geological and anthropogenic sources. Due to the rapid development of agriculture and industry, and a historical lack of enforcement of regulations, the study areas have become contaminated by metals, especially cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) which has been emitted into the environment through atmospheric deposition, solid-waste emissions, sludge applications, and irrigations with wastewater. The health risks posed to the local inhabitants by exposure to Pb and Cd in two coastal regions of Iran through the consumption of contaminated fish were investigated, based on estimated target hazard quotients (THQs). The results showed that THQ values are less than 1 for both adults and children by either group consuming fish alone. The distribution of several heavy metals (Cd and Pb) was investigated in muscle and liver in six different fish species seasonally collected in the Persian Gulf (autumn 2008 - summer 2009). The concentrations of all metals were lower in flesh than those recorded in liver due to their physiological roles. The THQ index for fish was calculated. Estimation of target hazard quotients calculations for the contaminated fish consumption was calculated to evaluate the effect of pollution on human health. Total metal THQs values (Pb and Cd) for adults were 0.05 and 0.04 in Bushehr and Bandar-Genaveh, respectively, and for children was 0.08 and 0.05 in Bushehr and Bandar-Genaveh, respectively. The dietary intake of Pb estimated for the inhabitants in this area is far below the limit considered tolerable. The Cd intake through the consumption of fish is also less than the limit of daily dietary intake considered tolerable by FAO/WHO.