Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk Research Articles

Levels and health risk assessments of particulate matter and inorganic gaseous pollutants in urban and industrial areas of Hawassa city, Ethiopia

Air pollution is a global public health concern due to its harmful health effects. However, there is scarce data on concentrations and sources of inorganic gaseous pollutants (NO2, CO, and SO2) and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) in Ethiopia, particularly Hawassa City. Thus, the goal of this research is to determine the indoor and outdoor concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, NO2, CO, and SO2 in urban and industrial areas of Hawassa City, Ethiopia, and to evaluate potential health concerns. A portable gas monitor device (HoldPeak Laser PM meter, HP 5800D) was used to measure the levels of PM10 and PM2.5. The Aeroqual Series 500 Portable Air Quality Monitor (Aeroqual Ltd., New Zealand) was used to measure the concentrations of NO2, CO, and SO2. The results of this study showed that the average concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, and NO2 ranged from 8.8 to 310.7, 20.1–515.8, and 40.0–123.7 μg/m3, respectively, during the dry season. In the wet season, the ranges for PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and CO levels were 17.2–117.4, 24.3–167.2, 31.8–111.3, and 77–33312 μg/m3, respectively. The wide range of variations in the concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, NO2 and CO variations may be related to spatial and temporal factors such as sampling locations and seasonal changes. In both the wet and dry seasons, the hazard quotient (HQ) for PM2.5 and PM10 was greater than one, suggesting a non-carcinogenic effect. The PM2.5 excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) ranged from 0.1 to 0.7, which is greater than the recommended values by the WHO (ranging from 1 × 10−5 to 1 × 10−6) and the USEPA (less than 1 × 10−6). The HQ and ELCR values imply a considerable health risk for the general population.

Exposure to volatile organic compounds in offices and in residential and educational buildings in the European Union between 2010 and 2023: A systematic review and health risk assessment

Chronic exposure to indoor volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can result in several adverse effects including cancers. We review reports of levels of VOCs in offices and in residential and educational buildings in the member states of the European Union (EU) published between 2010 and 2023. We use these data to assess the risk to population health by estimating lifetime exposure to indoor VOCs and resulting non-cancer and cancer risks and, from that, the burden of cancer attributable to VOC exposure and associated economic losses. Our systematic review identified 1783 articles, of which 184 were examined in detail, with 58 yielding relevant data. After combining data on VOC concentrations separately for EU countries and building types, non-cancer and cancer risks were assessed in terms of hazard quotient and lifetime excess cancer risk (LECR) using probabilistic Monte Carlo Simulations. The LECR was used to estimate disability adjusted life years (DALYs) from VOC-related cancers and associated costs. We find that the LECR associated with formaldehyde exposure was above the acceptable risk level (ARL) in France and Germany and that of from exposure to benzene was also above the ARL in Spanish females. The sum of DALYs and related costs/1,000,000 population/year from exposure to acetaldehyde, benzene, formaldehyde, tetrachloroethylene, and trichloroethylene were 4.02 and €41,010, respectively, in France, those from exposure to acetaldehyde, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene were 3.91 and €39,590 in Germany, and those from exposure to benzene were 0.1 and €1030 in Spain. Taken as a whole, these findings show that indoor exposure to VOCs remains a public health concern in the EU. Although the EU has set limits for certain VOCs, further measures are needed to restrict the use of these chemicals in consumer products.

Heavy metal(loid)s contamination and ecological-health risk assessment of coastal sediment from Salwa Bay, Saudi Arabia

Salwa Bay is an elongated, narrow bay which extends southwards from the Gulf of Bahrain down to the Saudi-Qatari border, separating the peninsula of Qatar from Saudi Arabia. The present study aims to investigate the degree of heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) contamination and the associated health risks in surface sediments of the Salwa Bay, Saudi Arabia. Thirty samples were collected for analysis of Ni, Cu, Cr, Pb, Zn, and As using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). Several contamination and health risk indices, and multivariate analysis were applied. The following order was detected for average concentrations of metal(loid)s (μg/g dry weight): Cr (5.56) > Zn (4.63) > Ni (4.43) > As (2.34) > Pb (1.66) > Cu (1.51). The coastal sediments exhibit a significant enrichment in As, moderate enrichment in Pb, Zn, Cr, and deficiency to minimal enrichment for Ni, and Cu. Sediment quality guidelines indicated that HMs do not pose a risk to the benthic communities in Salwa Bay area. The average hazard index values ranged from 0.00002 to 0.0038 in adults and from 0.0002 to 0.0353 in children. This suggests that there is no significant possibility of non-carcinogenic effects to the people inhabiting the coastline of Salwa Bay. The results of the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) for As, Cr, and Pb were below 1 × 10−4, indicating no carcinogenic health risk except for a few sediment samples showing elevated levels of Cr and As.

Radiation protection for Gabes phosphate area residents: Assessing natural radioactivity in soil and potable water samples

Phosphate mining activities are recognized to be one of various industrial processes generating enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) by introducing natural radionuclides into the surrounding soils and water bodies, posing a risk to human health.This study was carried out to assess the level of natural radionuclides in soils and potable waters collected from the phosphate area of Gabes city, located in southeastern Tunisia, and to evaluate radiation protection measures by estimating radiological health hazard parameters. Gamma spectrometry system employing an HPGe detector was used in this study to assess 40K, 232Th and 226Ra activity concentration in soils. The average values were found to be 163.7, 14.5, and 7.7 Bq kg−1, respectively, which were lower than worldwide average values. The radiological hazard parameters assessed in this study were radium equivalent activity (Ra-eq), external hazard index (Hex), external gamma absorbed rate (GDR), external annual effective dose (Deff) and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR). The calculated average values of the above-mentioned parameters were of 41 Bq kg−1, 0.1, 20.2 nGy h−1, 24.8 μSv y−1 and 8.7 × 10−5 all of which were found to be below their permissible standards.For potable water samples, the activity concentrations of radium were analyzed using an HPGe detector and those of uranium were determined by alpha spectrometry. The average activity concentrations of uranium and radium isotopes in underground water samples were found to be higher than those obtained in tap water samples. For both types of water, the average values for all radionuclides were found to be below their respective reference limits.The annual ingestion effective doses were also estimated in this study. The estimated average values for infant and children for underground water samples were higher than the permissible limit of 100 μSv y−1 set by WHO. The 226Ra was the main contributor to the effective doses for different age categories, followed by 228Ra.

Health Impacts of Natural Background Radiation in High Air Pollution Area of Thailand.

Chiang Mai province of Thailand is known for having the highest natural background radiation in the country, as well as being recognized as one of the world's most polluted cities for air quality. This represents the major contributor to the development of lung cancer. This research aims to estimate the comprehensive dose of both internal and external exposure due to natural background radiation and related health perspectives in the highly polluted area of Chiang Mai. The average values of indoor radon and thoron concentrations in 99 houses over 6 months were 40.8 ± 22.6 and 17.8 ± 16.3 Bq/m3, respectively. These results exceed the worldwide value for indoor radon and thoron (40 and 10 Bq/m3), respectively. During burning season, the average values of indoor radon (56.7 ± 20 Bq/m3) and thoron (20.8 ± 20.4 Bq/m3) concentrations were higher than the world-wide averages. The radon concentration in drinking water (56 samples) varied from 0.1 to 91.9 Bq/L, with an average value of 9.1 ± 22.8 Bq/L. Most of the drinking water samples (87%) fell below the recommended maximum contamination limit of 11.1 Bq/L. The average values of natural radionuclide (226Ra, 232Th and 40K) in 48 soil samples were 47 ± 20.9, 77.9 ± 29.7 and 700.1 ± 233 Bq/kg, respectively. All values were higher than the worldwide average of 35, 30 and 400 Bq/kg, respectively. The average value of outdoor absorbed gamma dose rate (98 ± 32.5 nGy/h) exceeded the worldwide average of 59 nGy/h. Meanwhile, the average activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in 25 plant food samples were 2.7 ± 0.1, 3.2 ± 1.6 and 1000.7 ± 1.9 Bq/kg, respectively. The 40K concentration was the most predominant in plant foods. The highest concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K were found in Chinese cabbage, celery and cilantro, respectively. The total annual effective dose for residents in the study area varied from 0.6 to 4.3 mSv, with an average value of 1.4 mSv. This indicates a significant long-term public health hazard due to natural background radiation and suggests a heightened radiation risk for the residents. The excess lifetime cancer risk value (5.4) associated with natural background radiation was found to be higher than the recommended value. Moreover, the number of lung cancer cases per year per million average of 25.2 per million persons per year was in the limit range 170-230 per million people. Overall, our results will be used for future decision making in the prevention of lung cancer risk associated with natural background radiation.

Radiological assessment of commonly food crops in Southwestern Nigeria

Natural radionuclides are present in food items at different levels and are influenced by factors like background radiation, climate, and agricultural practices. These radionuclides play a crucial role in humans' internal radiation exposure. Notably, radionuclides within the decay series 238U and 232Th as well as 40K are significant concerns in radiation protection due to their prevalence and potential health risks. The activity concentrations of radionuclides 238U, 232Th, and 40K in several food crops consumed within Lagos city in Nigeria were measured using gamma spectrometry. The concentrations of 238U, 232Th, and 40K ranged from 0.90 to 55.30, BDL (Below Detection Limit) to 161.60 and 10.30 to 1075.20 Bqkg−1, respectively. The average radionuclide activity concentrations are below the acceptable global level, or the worldwide average values set by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation in 2000 (UNSCEAR, 2000), which are 35, 30, and 400 Bqkg−1 for 238U, 232Th, and 40K, respectively. The study calculated the annual effective dose for individuals consuming the studied food items, and the annual internal dose from ingesting was found to be 8.95 × 10–04 μSvy−1. It’s noteworthy that this computed value is below the worldwide value of 0.32 mSv y−1 set for the public. Additionally, the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) value was 3.13 × 10−3 μSvy−1, which is within the world safe limit value (2.9 × 10−4 μSvy−1). Therefore, there is no potential radiological risk associated with the measured data.

Forensic GIS γ-Radiation Mapping and Associated Radiological Health Risk Assessment of the Premier Cities of Sapele, Oghara and Koko; South-South Nigeria

The GIS mapping of the terrestrial γ -radiation levels and evaluation of the radiological health hazard to residents of Sapele, Oghara and Koko cities in Nigeria have been carried out, using a Digilert nuclear radiation survey meter, geographical positioning system (GPS) and arc ArcGIS software. In Sapele (4 zones), the measured average gamma radiation levels ranged from 0.011 ± 0.003 mR h − 1 to 0.014 ± 0.005 mR h − 1 , while in Oghara (5 zones), the average gamma radiation levels ranged from 0.013 ± 0.002 mR h − 1 to 0.026 ± 0.009 mR h − 1 and for Koko(4 zones), the values obtained ranged from 0.018 ± 0.003 mR h − 1 (1.54 ± 0.11 mSvy − 1 ) to 0.023 ± 0.008 mR h − 1 respectively, with overall mean value of 0.017 ± 0.006 mR h − 1 (1.43 ± 0.51 mSvy − 1 ) . The mean absorbed gamma dose rate for three cities of Sapele, Oghara and Koko are 106.50 ± 22.33 nGy h − 1 , 167.28 ± 22.59 nGy h − 1 and 176.80 ± 24.74 η Gyh − 1 respectively. The mean annual effective dose rate (AEDR) for the three cities is 0.13 ± 0.03 mSvy − 1 , 0.20 ± 0.07 mSvy − 1 and 0.22 ± 0.06 mSvy − 1 mSvy − 1 respectively , while the mean excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) values are (0.47, 0.72 and 0.77) x10−3 respectively. The results obtained in the cities indicate that the BIR levels, and corresponding estimated health risk parameters in Koko > Oghara > Sapele. The estimated effective dosage to organs shows that liver receiving the least dose of 0.07mSvy−1 (11%) while testes got the highest dose of 0.12 mSvy−1 (19%). The overall results obtained show that all the thirteen zones’ BIR levels and their estimated risk parameters exceeded their recommended limits for the public and were also higher than reported values in previous studies reviewed. The reported significant elevation of the obtained background ionizing radiation (BIR) values may not necessarily establish any immediate likelihood of radiological health risk, but call for caution on possible accumulative radiation effects in future on the residents of the study area.

On transfer factors of natural radionuclides and radiological health risks assessment of some fruit samples

Abstract In this study, the activity concentration of artificial and natural radionuclides such as 137Cs, 40K, 226Ra, and 232Th was measured in the soil under the roots; leaves; and fruits of six different fruit trees namely mulberry, fig, apricot, olive, black and white grapes in Koya district, Erbil province, Iraq. For this purpose, a high-resolution gamma spectroscopy consisting of a high-purity germanium (HPGe) detector was used. In addition, the associated radiological risks from soil and fruits were assessed by calculating several radiological indices such as radium equivalent (Raeq.s), absorbed dose (Ds), indoor (AEDEs indoor ) and outdoor annual effective doses (AEDEs outdoor ), internal and external hazard indices, gamma index and the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELRCs). The results show that consuming these fruits is radiologically safe because they can cause an annual effective dose of about 61.72 μSv y−1 and excess lifetime cancer risk of 0.06 × 10−3 Sv y−1. On the other hand, transfer factors of radionuclides from soil to leaves; and from soil to fruits were studied. The transfer factor analysis revealed that among the studied fruits and radionuclides, apricot and mulberry exhibited the highest transfer factors for 40K, with values of 1.85 and 1.87, respectively.

Delving into river health: unveiling microplastic intrusion and heavy metal contamination in freshwater

The persistent use of plastics in chemical and industrial procedures has resulted in the contamination of the environment and human health via microplastics (MPs). This study investigates heavy metals, MP, pH, conductivity, and turbidity levels in the Nida River in Poland. The Nida River exhibited the existence of diverse coloured MPs in several physical forms, including fibres, fragments, pellets, and foams. Differences in the number of MPs were noted at five selected locations, with values ranging from 215 to 280 MPs per litre. The mean number of MPs observed was 245 ± 21 per litre. The study of water samples using a scanning electron microscope indicates the existence of various MPs. The morphological study of these MPs revealed patterns of degradation. The energy-dispersive X-ray examination indicates the existence of several elements, such as carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, sodium, magnesium, aluminium, silicon, phosphorus, and others. The water exhibited fluctuations in its levels of heavy metal content. The average zinc concentration in all samples was 96.86 ± 40.25 μg/L, which was the highest. It was followed by Pb 37.6 ± 31.9 μg/L concentration. The turbidity measurement was recorded as 46.38 ± 22.54, the pH level was 7.078 ± 0.33, and the conductivity value was determined to be 1338.8 ± 39.64. The HQ and HI values for adults and children in all age groups were less than one. The carcinogenic excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) exceeds the threshold value in most water samples. This study aims to fill the existing gap in understanding the precise measurement of MPs and heavy metals in freshwater sources in Poland. Health risk evaluations are the first step in developing pollution management, control, and water quality standards.Graphical

Distribution of natural radioactivity in different geological formations and their environmental risk assessment in Malaysia

Labuan, Miri, Kundasang and Raub regions of Malaysia have very different geological formations and settings that could result in different levels of natural radioactivity. Hence, this study determines the influence of different geological formations on radioactivity in these locations using field measurements, petrology and geochemistry. A total of 141 gamma dose rates and 227 beta flux measurements were collected using Polimaster survey meters (PM1405) in these four regions. The gamma dose rate values range from 0.37 to 0.05 µSv/h with a mean value of 0.11 µSv/h. Beta flux values range from 3.46 to 0.12 CPS with a mean value of 0.57 CPS. Mineralogy and elemental composition of the different rock types were analysed using thin-section petrography, XRD, ICP and pXRF methods. Felsic igneous rocks such as syenite and granite have higher natural radioactivity and contain more radionuclide-bearing minerals such as apatite, zircon, allanite, K-feldspar, titanite, muscovite and biotite. Metamorphic rocks have the second highest natural radioactivity and contain fewer radioactive minerals. The natural radioactivity of sedimentary rocks mostly depends on their clay content. The gamma dose rate maps show that igneous and metamorphic regions around Raub have higher radioactivity compared to the sedimentary-dominated regions around Miri and Labuan. Annual effective dose (AED) and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) were calculated to evaluate the potential health risk for inhabitants of these regions. Labuan and Miri are considered to be safe zones with respect to natural radioactivity as the results show little to no risk for the public, compared with the Raub region, which is medium to high risk.

Measurement of Background Ionizing Radiation Around Beta Glass Plc and Its Environs, Ughelli, Delta State, Nigeria

A study of the background ionizing radiation levels to helps monitor the impact of human activities on the environment, such as mining, farming, glass bottle production and power generation has been carried out around Beta glass Plc and Transcorp Power LTD using a hand-held gamma spectrometer (GAMMA-SCOUT; Geiger counter Radiation meter) and GPS (Oregon-450 Garmin). The study of the BIR levels was carried out between June to July, 2022. The average measured exposure rates (AV. BIR) ranged from 0.007 mRh-1 to 0.013 mRh-1, with 0.010±0.0002 mRh-1 as the average. The estimated mean outdoor absorbed dose rate (ADR) for the study region was 113.10 Gyh-1 to 87.153±2.091 Gyh-1, with an average annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE) of 106.884±2.565 mSvy-1 and an average excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) of (0.374±0.009) × 10-3. The measured values of radiological parameters, such as annual dose rate, annual effective dose rate, and excess lifetime cancer, were higher than background radiation levels. The average BIR is in line with the ICRP recommendation of 0.013 (mRh-1), while the effective dose rate (EDR) is somewhat below the ICRP recommendation of 1.00 (mSvy-1) for a normal environment. The obtained values of the radiological indicators, such as ADR, AEDE, and ELCR, are greater than the background radiation norm of 59 (?Gyh-1), 0. 07 (mSvy-1), and 0.29×10-3. The study found that radiation levels and doses in the study location do not immediately harm personnel or residents, but increased lifetime cancer risk values suggest that cumulative dosages may cause cancer.

37 years after the chernobyl: the current radiation status in Kocaeli, Turkey

This study aims to assess the artificial and natural radiation dose levels in certain districts of Kocaeli province within the Marmara region, 37 years after the Chernobyl nuclear accident, and evaluate the current status prior to potential nuclear leakage events from Zaporijya or other nuclear power plants. Radioactive concentrations of 232Th, 238U, 40K and 137Cs were determined using HPGe gamma spectrometry in 26 soil samples collected from the region of interest. The average concentrations were found to be 22.35 Bqkg−1 for 238U, 26.36 Bqkg−1 for 232Th, 368.34 Bqkg−1 for 40K, and 2.44 Bqkg−1 for 137Cs. Furthermore, the study revealed an absorbed dose rate of 41.73 nGyh−1, an annual effective dose equivalent of 51.18 µSvy−1, and an excess lifetime cancer risk of 0.00018.

Natural Radionuclides Concentrations and Associated Radiation Hazard of Some Building Rocks Used in Taiz City, Yemen

Building materials comprise a diverse range of natural rocks that contain varying mineral components including radionuclides. Gamma spectrometry-based high-purity Germanium detectors were utilized to measure the activity concentrations of natural radionuclides: Radium-226 (226Ra), Thorium-232 (232Th), and Potassium-40 (40K) in various building rock samples found within and surrounding Taiz city. The activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K vary from 27.79 ± 0.77 to 234.49 ± 3.13 Bq.kg-1, 25.82 ± 0.40 to 415.31 ± 2.47 Bq.kg-1, and 457.91±2.61 to 1139.56 ± 5.43 Bq.kg-1 with overall average value of 71.55 Bq.kg-1, 93.87 Bq.kg-1, 966.88 Bq.kg-1 respectively, these values were higher than the permissible thresholds. Furthermore, several radiation hazard indices were estimated including the radium equivalent (Raeq), the external hazard index (Hex), the internal hazard index (Hin), the gamma level index (Iɤ), the dose rate(Dɤ), the annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), the excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR), and the annual gonadal dose equivalent (AGDE). The findings illustrated that Basalt rocks have the minimum values of radiation hazard indices while the Himatite rocks have the maximum values of radiation hazard. The average values of radiation risks for most of building rocks fall below the recommended limits for safety. Based on the Radiation hazard indices of building rock samples, it can be concluded that with the exception of hematite rocks, all the examined rocks are considered safe for use in construction materials and pose non-significant radiation risks. The awareness about natural radioactivity levels of building rocks is critical for planning and performing strategies in radiation safety of buildings.

Estimation of annual effective radiation dose and cancer risk due to tea consumption

The current study aims to assess the radioactive health risks and their levels due to tea consumption. Fresh tea leaves were plucked from different locations in the Gumero tea farmland in Ilubabour zone, Ethiopia. High-resolution gamma-ray spectroscopy was used to measure the activity concentrations of artificial and natural radionuclides (e.g., 40K, 232Th, and 238U) in the samples. Radiological indicators such as committed dose rate (DR) and excess lifetime cancer risk, LCR (i.e., the cancer death risk due to lifetime exposure to carcinogens, ignoring the contribution of natural background risk) were evaluated to ascertain the radioactive risk to humans in the tea samples. DR and LCR, two radiological markers, were assessed to determine the radioactive risk to humans in the tea samples. The finding shows that the radiological hazards assessment of 238U and 232Th revealed that the Gumero tea leaves have natural radioactivity levels within the internationally recommended limit, while that of 40K was higher than the limit. Comparing the current study with other studies, it was found that the yearly effective doses and nuclide radioactivity concentrations in tea leaves were similar.

Carcinogenicity and non-carcinogenicity health risks due to PM2.5 bound trace metals at a sub urban site in Northwest Indo-Gangetic Plain.

This study investigates the PM2.5 bound metals using yearlong measurements at a regionally representative suburban site in the Northwest Indo-Gangetic Plain (NWIGP). The order of the measured annual average concentrations of PM2.5 bound metals is Fe > Zn > Ba > Sn > Pb > Cd > Ni > Mn > Cr > Li. Lithium bound to airborne PM2.5 has been reported for the first time in NWIGP. Ni (72.4 ng m-3) and Cd (36.9 ng m-3) have exceeded the acceptable limits set by NAAQS, India. Estimated the hazard quotient (HQ > 1) of Mn and hazard index (HI > 1) of measured metals exceeded the threshold limits indicating the potential non-carcinogenic health risk due to inhalation exposure of PM2.5 bound trace metals. Further, excessive lifetime cancer risk due to inhalation exposure to Cd, Ni and Cr was estimated and found to exceed the threshold limit set by the USEPA for adults and children.

Radionuclide Transfer in Tea Cultivation: Assessing Radiological Risks in the Largest and First Established Tea Garden in Bangladesh

ABSTRACT To address potential health risks associated with radioactivity in tea consumption, a study was conducted utilizing high purity germanium (HPGe) γ-ray spectrometry to measure the concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, 40K, and 137Cs radionuclides in soil and tea leaves collected from several major tea gardens (including the Malnicherra tea garden which is the largest and first established tea garden in the Indian subcontinent) situated in Sylhet, Bangladesh. Although nearly all soil samples showed the presence of 137Cs (with a maximum activity of 6.5 ± 1.31 Bq/kg), none of the analyzed tea leaf samples exhibited its presence, which can be attributed to its restricted transferability from soil to plants. The range of transfer factors for 226Ra, 232Th and 40K from soil to tea leaves was calculated to be (0.39–0.54), (0.25–0.46) and (1.39–3.03), respectively. The heightened concentrations of 40K identified in the tea leaf samples can be mainly ascribed to specific metabolic processes associated with potassium, along with the heightened utilization of potassium chloride-based fertilizers aimed at enhancing tea production. The examination of hazard parameters, including the estimated committed effective dose and the excess lifetime cancer risk associated with tea consumption, reveals values that are comparatively lower than the recommended limits. Consequently, the radiation exposure from tea consumption does not present a significant radiological health concern for the general population.

Geophysical survey and radiometric assessment of aquifer strata and vulnerable groundwater quality of Ukwuani Ommunities in Delta State

The study assessed the aquifer strata and groundwater quality of Obeti, Umuaja, and Ebedei communities of Ukwuani, Delta State, Nigeria using electrical resistivity technique and sodium iodide [Na(TI)] detector. The electrical resistivity technique revealed that lithology has five to six geoelectric strata, which ranged from topsoil to clay formations with thickness of 0.6 to 6.0 m sits and aquifer resistivity range of 182.1– 6032.0 Ωm with depth of 29–70 m. These ranges indicate significant changes in the aquifer level and sufficient reservoirs for groundwater. To assess the activity concentrations of 238U, 232Th and 40K at the aquifer depth of 29–70 m groundwater, a total of fifteen groundwater samples were collect for analysis and the mean results are 9.00±1.24Bql−1, 4.82±2.95Bql−1 and 57.93±4.20Bql−1 respectively. These results are all above world threshold limits. However, the computed mean radiological health risk values for radium equivalent (Raeq), representative index (Iy), external hazard index (Hin), internal hazard index (Hex), absorbed dose rate (D), annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), outdoor and indoor, and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) outdoor and indoor are 20.35±5.78 Bql−1, 0.15mSvy−1, 0.056mSvy−1, 0.08mSvy−1, 9.55μGyh−1, 11.71mSvy−1, 46.84mSvy−1and 0.04×10−3, 0.16×10−3 and 0.20×10−3 for the addition of (ELCR) outdoor and indoor respectively. The computed mean radiological values are below world threshold limits. Hence, the studied communities’ drinking groundwater is safe radiologically. It is advised that government, oil and gas operators and individuals should drill above 30 m depth for quality groundwater and should be treated before usage. These values will serve as baseline data.

Comprehensive Analysis of Contaminants in Powdered Milk Samples Using an HPGe for γ Radiation.

Aims: This study aimed to assess the activity concentrations and cancer risk assessments of 232Th and 40K in powdered milk samples collected from various suppliers in Pakistan, considering the increasing concern about cancer risks associated with environmental radiological effects related to food consumption. Subjects and Methods: Specific activity concentrations were determined using a high-resolution, high-purity germanium γ-spectroscopy system. Results: The specific activity levels of 40K and 232Th in the analyzed powdered milk samples were found to be 230.86 and 6.87 Bq/kg, respectively, well within the safe limits recommended by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR). The hazard index (0.074 Bq/kg) and radium equivalent (27.58 Bq/kg) were calculated as indicators of radiation hazard, along with absorbed dose (26.26 nGy/h), annual effective dose (0.13 nGy/h), and excess lifetime cancer risk (0.45). These parameters provide insights into the potential health risks associated with powdered milk consumption. Conclusions: The findings collectively affirm the radiological safety of the analyzed powdered milk samples, providing valuable insights into the potential health risks associated with their consumption.

Assessment of radionuclides in the soil of Bonny Local Government Area Of Rivers State, Nigeria and evaluation of radiological risk

Twenty Samples each of soil from Bonny LGA, Rivers State, Nigeria were analyzed using NaI(IT) gamma detector to estimate radiation hazard due to the anthropogenic sources. The activity concentration of 232Th was found to be in the range 18.78 – 397.13 BqKg-1, 40K in the range 43.72 – 390.62 BqKg-1 and 226Ra in the range 10.77 – 57.84 BqKg-1 all in soil. These results were used to calculate the radiological hazard parameters including the Annual Gonadal Equivalent Dose. The calculated gamma exposure rates ranged between 10.00 – 270.79 nGyh-1 while the average value of the Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) was found to be 0.38 x 10-3 for soil which is higher than the world average of 0.29 x 10-3.

Treatment of marble industry wastewater by Brassica napus (L.) under oxalic acid amendment: efficacy as fodder and carcinogenic risk assessment.

In the present study, Brassica napus, a food plant, was grown for phytoextraction of selected heavy metals (HMs) from marble industry wastewater (WW) under oxalic acid (OA) amendment. The hydroponic experiment was performed under different combination of WW with OA in complete randomized design. Photosynthetic pigments and growth reduction were observed in plants treated with WW alone amendments. The combination of OA in combination with WW significantly enhanced the growth of plants along with antioxidant enzyme activities compared with WW-treated-only plants. HM stress alone enhanced the hydrogen peroxide, electrolyte leakage, and malondialdehyde contents in plants. OA-treated plants were observed with enhanced accumulation of cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb) concentrations in the roots and shoots of B. napus. The maximum concentration and accumulation of Cd in root, stem, and leaves was increased by 25%, 30%, and 30%; Cu by 42%, 24%, and 17%; and Pb by 45%, 24%, and 43%, respectively, under OA amendment. Average daily intake and hazard quotient (HQ) were calculated for males, females, and children in two phases of treatments in phytoremediation of metals before and after accumulation into B. napus leaves and stems. HQ of metals in the leaves and stem was < 1 before metal accumulation, whereas > 1 was observed after HM accumulation for all males, females, and children. Similarly, the hazard index of the three study types was found > 1. It was observed that the estimated excess lifetime cancer risk was of grade VII (very high risk), not within the accepted range of 1 × 10-4 to 1 × 10-6. Based on the present study, the increased levels of HMs up to carcinogenicity was observed in the B. napus which is not safe to be consumed later as food.