Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk Research Articles

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in a polyherbal drug: human health exposure-associated risk assessment study

ABSTRACT PAHs are pervasive pollutants known to bioaccumulate in environmental matrices, plants, and humans. Dr. Iguedo Goko Cleanser® is a polyherbal drug with unsubstantiated claims to treat various diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. PAHs were measured following EPA-16 PAHs guidelines using Gas Chromatography (Agilent-6890N, USA). The drug’s exposure-associated public health concerns was determined using suitable mathematical paradigms. PAHs present were acenaphthene (2.74 × 10−2), pyrene (2.7598 × 10−2), and chrysene (5.1277 × 10−2) ppm. Dietary intake of chrysene, acenaphthene and pyrene for adults, and children ranged from 2.466–4.615 × 10−3 and 1.215–2.308 × 10−3 ppm/mg/kg, respectively. B[α]Peq, EDB[α]Peq, and incremental lifetime cancer risk were determined to be 5.6777 × 10−4, 5.109912 × 10−5 and 5.3289 × 10−12, respectively. Our results suggest a high risk of non-carcinogenic adverse health effects, especially on chronic exposure among adolescents and adults, necessitating caution and/or avoidance of its chronic use. Therefore, policy formulation and implementation as regards the safety of plant-based remedies and allied products before their distribution among end-users must be ensured.

An extensive investigation on human risk associated with PAHs in fish and sediment in Bushehr, Northern of Persian Gulf

Here, a comprehensive study was designed to estimate the human risk assessment attributed to exposure of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)in sediment and fish in most polluted shore area in north of Persian Gulf. To this end, a total of 20 sediment and inhabitual Fish, as one of most commercial fish, samples were randomly collected from 20 different stations along Bushehr Province coastline. The 16 different components of PAHs were extracted from sediment and edible parts of inhabitual fish and measured with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC), respectively. In addition, dietary daily intake (DDI) values of PAHs via ingestion Indian halibut and the incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) attributed to human exposure to sediments PAHs via (a) inhalation, (b) ingestion, and (c) dermal contact for two groups of ages: children (1–11 years) and adults (18–70 years) were estimated. The results indicated that all individual PAHs except for Benzo(b)flouranthene (BbF) and Benzo(ghi) perylene (BgP) were detected in different sediment sample throughout the study area with average concentration between 2.275 ± 4.993 mg.kg–1 dw. Furthermore, Naphthalene (Nap) with highest average concentration of 3.906 ± 3.039 mg.kg–1 dw was measured at the Indian halibut. In addition, the human risk analysis indicated that excess cancer risk (ECR) attributed to PAHs in sediment and fish in Asaluyeh with high industrial activities on oil and derivatives were higher the value recommended by USEPA (10−6). Therefore, a comprehensive analysis on spatial distribution and human risk assessment of PAHs in sediment and fish can improve the awareness on environmental threat in order to aid authorities and decision maker to find a sustainable solution.

Characteristics, Sources Apportionment, and Health Risks of PM2.5-bound PAHs and Their Derivatives Before and After Heating in Zibo City

Atmospheric polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their derivatives are a global problem that influences the environment and threatens human health. To investigate the characteristics, sources, and health risk assessment of PM2.5-bound PAHs and their derivatives, PM2.5 were collected at an urban site in Zibo from November 5 to December 26, 2020, and the concentrations of 16 conventional PAHs, nine NPAHs, and five OPAHs in PM2.5 were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Source apportionment of PAHs and their derivatives was conducted using diagnostic ratios and a PMF model, and the health risks of PAHs and their derivatives to adult men and women were evaluated using the source-dependent incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) model. The results showed that the average concentrations of ∑16pPAHs, ∑9NPAHs, and ∑5OPAHs in PM2.5 of Zibo City during the sampling period were (41.61 ± 13.40), (6.38 ± 5.70), and (53.20 ± 53.47) ng·m-3, respectively. The concentrations of the three PAHs increased significantly after heating, which were 1.31, 2.04, and 5.24 times larger than those before heating. During the sampling period, Chr, BaP, and BaA were the dominant components of pPAHs; 9N-Ant and 2N-Flt + 3N-Flt were the dominant components of NPAHs; and ATQ and BZO were the dominant components of OPAHs. Source apportionment results showed that motor vehicles were the main source of PAHs and their derivatives in PM2.5 before heating, whereas after heating, the main sources were the mixed source of coal and biomass combustion and secondary formation. The total BaP equivalent (TEQ) was 14.5 ng·m-3 during the sampling period, and the TEQ increased significantly after heating, which was approximately 1.2 times of that before heating. Assisted by the individual PAH source apportionment results, the ILCR of PM2.5-boundPAHs and NPAHs in Zibo City had a certain potential carcinogenic risk for adult males (1.06 × 10-5) and females (9.32 × 10-6). Among them, the health risks of PAHs from gasoline vehicles, diesel vehicles, and coal/biomass combustion were significantly higher than those from other emission sources.

Assessment of potential health risks associated with heavy metal concentrations in leafy vegetables in Kerman, Iran

ABSTRACT Despite the growing awareness of the nutritional benefits of leafy vegetables, there is a lack of information about the presence of heavy metals and the associated risks in these products. This study aimed to investigate the concentration of heavy metals in leafy vegetables in Kerman City. The research also assessed the intake of heavy metals and the associated drisks for children and adults who consume these vegetables. The study followed the recommended methods by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to evaluate both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic diseases. A total of 400 leafy vegetable samples, including parsley, coriander, Persian leek, and basil, were randomly collected from agricultural farms in the outskirts of Kerman City. The samples were analysed using a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer to measure the concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), and copper(Cu). The results revealed that the levels of heavy metals in leafy vegetable samples exceeded the recommended standards set by international organisations such as FAO/WHO, European countries, and Iran. The total target hazard quotient (THQ) for non-carcinogenic diseases resulting from the consumption of leafy vegetables was higher than one for both children and adults in all studied areas, indicating a potential risk of non-carcinogenic diseases associated with the consumption of these vegetables. Furthermore, the average Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) resulting from exposure to agricultural soil through leafy vegetable consumption exceeded the hazardous and unacceptable range of 104− × 10−6 in both children and adults. This suggests the possibility of carcinogenic diseases caused by Pb and Cd through the consumption of leafy vegetables in all studied areas, with a higher overall risk observed in children compared to adults. In conclusion, while leafy vegetables are widely recognised for their nutritional benefits, our study underscores a critical gap in understanding the presence of heavy metals and the associated risks in these products. The findings reveal that the concentrations of heavy metals in leafy vegetables from Kerman City exceed international standards, posing potential health risks, particularly in children. Further research and regulatory actions are warranted to address this pressing issue and ensure the safety of our food supply.

Concentrations, Sources, and Health Risk of Heavy Metals in Edible Parts of Broilers from Northeast of Algeria.

Heavy metals contamination of poultry products is a major concern for public health. This study aimed to determine the concentration of mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and iron (Fe) in the edible parts of broilers, as well as in feed, drinking water, and litter as sources of contamination and to assess their possible human health risk in the province of Jijel (Northeast Algeria). The range of Hg, Pb, and Fe in edible parts were 0.004-0.007, 0.185-0.480, and 28.536-88.306mg/kg, respectively, and the difference in content was only significant (p < 0.05) for lead. Breast and thigh samples had Pb concentrations above the maximum limit. Spearman coefficient analysis revealed that most correlations were positive between metals detected in feed, water, and litter and those in the edible parts of broilers. But most of them were insignificant (p > 0.05). The estimated daily intake (EDI) values of examined metal exceeded the tolerable daily intake (PTDI). The target hazard quotients (THQ) and hazard index (HI) of all metals were lower than 1, suggesting no significant carcinogenic risks. The calculated incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) of Pb was higher than 10-4 for men, women, and children, indicating the presence of carcinogenic risk. Considering the wide consumption of broiler meat, regular national monitoring of heavy metals in the broiler production chain is recommended to protect population health.

Bioaccumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and their human health risks depend on the characteristics of microplastics in marine organisms of Sanggou Bay, China

Microplastics pose a threat to marine environments through their physical presence and as vectors of chemical pollutants. However, the impact of microplastics on the accumulation and human health risk of chemical pollutants in marine organisms remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the microplastics and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) pollution in marine organisms from Sanggou Bay and analyzed their correlations. Results showed that microplastic and PAHs concentration ranged from 1.23 ± 0.23 to 5.77 ± 1.10 items/g, from 6.98 ± 0.45 to 15.07 ± 1.25μg/kg, respectively. The microplastic abundance, particularly of fibers, transparent and color plastic debris, correlates strongly with PAH contents, indicating that microplastics increase the bioaccumulation of PAHs and microplastics with these characteristics have a significant vector effect on PAHs. Although consuming seafood from Sanggou Bay induce no carcinogenic risk from PAHs, the presence of microplastics in organisms can significantly increases incremental lifetime cancer risk of PAHs. Thus, microplastics can serve as transport vectors for PAHs with implications for the potential health risks to human through consumption. This study provides new insight into the risks of microplastics in marine environments. Environmental implicationWe investigated the microplastic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) pollution in marine organisms from Sanggou Bay and analyzed their correlations. The microplastic abundance showed significant positive correlation with the total content of PAHs, suggesting that microplastics increase the bioaccumulation of PAHs. Consuming organisms from Sanggou Bay pose no carcinogenic risk associated with PAHs. However, there was a significant positive correlation between the abundance of microplastics in organisms and the Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk, suggesting that microplastics enhanced the human health risk of PAHs. This study provides new insight into the risks of microplastics in marine environments.

Assessment of heavy metals and human health risk associated with the consumption of crops cultivated in industrial areas of Maputo, Mozambique

This study aimed to evaluate heavy metals concentrations in soils and vegetables (cabbage, lettuce, and cassava) cultivated at Matola and Beluluane Industrial Parks, and to assess health risks linked to their consumption through estimated daily intake, hazard index (HI), and incremental lifetime cancer risk. Concentrations of Al, As, Co, Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn were determined in the two sites. Soil concentrations of As at Beluluane site and As, Cd, and Cr at Matola site exceeded reference limits of the Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization, showing heavy metal contamination. At Beluluane site, all studied vegetables presented As and Pb levels higher than reference limits, Cd concentrations were higher than the reference limit in cabbage, lettuce, and cassava leaves. At Matola site crops concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, and Pb exceeded the reference limits. Zinc exceeded the reference limit in all crops except in cabbage. HIs for vegetables from Beluluane exceeded 1.0 in cabbage (2.66), lettuce (2.27), and cassava leaves (2.37). Likewise, at Matola, HIs exceeded 1.0 in lettuce (1.67), cassava leaves (1.65), and root tubers (13). We found that vegetables cultivated in industrial parks present high carcinogenic risk due to heavy metal contamination, rendering them unsuitable for human consumption.

Analysis and health risk assessment of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) in meat products (sausage) by using GC/MS

In this research, the amount of PCB (polychlorinated biphenyls) in sausage meat products was analyzed using magnetic adsorbent of Fe3O4@SiO2@PSS/PDDA/MWCNTs (Fe3O4@SiO2@poly(sodium4-styrenesulfonate)/poly diallyl dimethyl ammonium chloride/Multi walled carbon nanotubes) and GC–MS (Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry) method. The recovery (%), LODs (limit of detections) and LOQs (limit of quantifications) were 93.40–102.54 %, 0.03–0.12 ng/g fat and 0.10–0.36 ng/g fat, respectively. Also, the results indicated that the total mean concentrations of different PCB compounds, in sausages was ranged 0.08 (PCB 153) to 0.88 (PCB 138) ng/g fat. Additionally, PCB 52 had the highest concentration (10.72 ng/g fat) in sausage 80 %. The highest permissible level of PCB in meat products is 40 ng/g fat, which were lower than this limit in the evaluated samples. Finally, the outcomes of Monte Carlo simulation exhibited that the estimated daily intake of PCBs from sausage samples was below the existing tolerable daily intake of PCB compounds (Tolerable Daily Intake (TDI) < 10 ng/kg BW (body weight) per day). The ILCR (Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk) was in the safe range (less than 6–10) for consumers of this product in Iran.

Effect of NPAH Exposure on Lung Function of Children in Indoor Coal Combustion Environment

Nitropolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (NPAH) emissions from the combustion of household solid fuel may cause great harm to public health. Children are one of the most susceptible population groups at risk of indoor air pollutants due to their immature respiratory and immune systems. In this study, a primary school using household coal combustion for heating in winter was selected and forty participants were randomly recruited among schoolchildren. Fine particulate matter samples were collected by both individual portable samplers and fixed middle-flow samplers during the heating and nonheating seasons. The NPAH concentrations in PM2.5 samples were analyzed by a gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer. Potential sources of NPAHs were identified by NPAH ratios as well as principal component analysis. Lung function of children was tested by an electronic spirometer. The relationship between NPAH exposure level and children’s lung function was studied. Finally, the cancer risk caused by NPAH inhalation was assessed. The results showed significantly higher individual NPAH exposure level in heating season (0.901±0.396 ng·m-3) than that in nonheating season (0.094±0.107 ng·m-3). Coal/biomass combustion and secondary formation were the potential NPAH sources in heating season. Significantly lower lung function of children was also found in heating season compared with that in nonheating season. As a result of the Monte Carlo simulation, the averaged incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) values from the inhalation of NPAHs in the heating and nonheating seasons were 3.50×10−8 and 2.13×10−8, respectively. Our research revealed the association between NPAH exposure and children’s lung function and confirmed the adverse effect of indoor coal combustion. The results also indicated that further control strategies on indoor coal combustion are needed to reduce the risk of NPAH exposure and protect children’s health.

A comprehensive examination of temporal-seasonal variations of PM1.0 and PM2.5 in taiwan before and during the COVID-19 lockdown.

COVID-19 has been a significant global concern due to its contagious nature. In May 2021, Taiwan experienced a severe outbreak, leading the government to enforce strict Pandemic Alert Level 3 restrictions in order to curtail its spread. Although previous studies in Taiwan have examined the effects of these measures on air quality, further research is required to compare different time periods and assess the health implications of reducing particulate matter during the Level 3 lockdown. Herein, we analyzed the mass concentrations, chemical compositions, seasonal variations, sources, and potential health risks of PM1.0 and PM2.5 in Central Taiwan before and during the Level 3 lockdown. As a result, coal-fired boilers (47%) and traffic emissions (53%) were identified as the predominant sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in PM1.0, while in PM2.5, the dominant sources of PAHs were coal-fired boilers (28%), traffic emissions (50%), and iron and steel sinter plants (22.1%). Before the pandemic, a greater value of 20.9 ± 6.92 μg/m3 was observed for PM2.5, which decreased to 15.3 ± 2.51 μg/m3 during the pandemic due to a reduction in industrial and anthropogenic emissions. Additionally, prior to the pandemic, PM1.0 had a contribution rate of 79% to PM2.5, which changed to 89% during the pandemic. Similarly, BaPeq values in PM2.5 exhibited a comparable trend, with PM1.0 contributing 86% and 65% respectively. In both periods, the OC/EC ratios for PM1.0 and PM2.5 were above 2, due to secondary organic compounds. The incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) of PAHs in PM2.5 decreased by 4.03 × 10-5 during the pandemic, with PM1.0 contributing 73% due to reduced anthropogenic activities.

Health risk assessment of heavy metal pollutants in Iranian hen eggs: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Eggs are a high-quality, nutrient-dense source of protein that is available at a relatively low price and the contamination of eggs by heavy metals is an important issue in public health. This review aimed to assess the risk of heavy metal pollutants in Iranian hen eggs. Original full-text available studies in Iran, detecting levels of Pb, Cd, As, and Hg in whole or part of the egg, and published between January 2000 and March 2023 were selected based on the inclusion criteria. The random-effect model was used to estimate the pooled concentrations of Pb, Cd, As, and Hg in Iranian eggs in meta-analysis. The incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) and the target hazard quotient (THQ) were estimated by both calculation and Monte Carlo simulations to determine the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk of egg consumption, respectively. The pooled concentrations of heavy metals in Iranian hen eggs from nine articles (11 datasets: 10 studies on Pb, 7 on Cd, and 5 on As and Hg concentrations) were Pb 0.29 (95% CI 0.20-0.39) mg kg-1, Cd 0.04 (95% CI 0.03-0.06) mg kg-1, As 0.05 (95% CI 0.03-0.07) mg kg-1, and Hg 0.03 (95% CI 0.02-0.04) mg kg-1. THQ did not show the non-carcinogenic risk; however, the ILCR for Pb concentration showed the threshold carcinogenic risk (mean ILCR = 8.94e - 4 and 9.0E - 4 by calculation and Monte Carlo simulations, respectively), with the greater risk for Cd (mean ILCR = 2.02e - 2). The carcinogenic risk of Pb and Cd concentration in Iranian hen eggs shows the urgent need for programs and policies to lower the risk for consumers by providing healthier feeding.

Occurrence, source modeling, influencing factors and exposure assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in water sources: A mega-study from mainland China

This study investigates the composition and distribution of 16 priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in 70 water samples collected from centralized drinking water sources (CDWSs) across 30 provinces (cities) in mainland China. Additionally, water quality and socio-economic data were collected to determine the influencing factors. The study discovered that the total concentrations of 16 priority PAHs (Σ16PAHs) varied from 0.17 to 176.71 ng/L (mean: 56.49 ± 38.58 ng/L). Lakes and reservoirs had significantly higher concentrations of PAHs than groundwater. The primary pollutants were low-molecular-weight (LMW) PAHs, such as phenanthrene, naphthalene, and fluorene. There was a strong correlation between LMW PAHs and Σ16PAHs (p < 0.05). The mean Σ16PAHs in the seven geo-environmental zones were ranked as follows, under the comprehensive influence of emission density, natural, and social environmental factors: Northwest China (78.42 ± 66.96 ng/L) > Northeast China (73.70 ± 33.23 ng/L) > East China (64.35 ± 45.66 ng/L) > North China (50.95 ± 31.87 ng/L) > Southwest China (44.05 ± 32.56 ng/L) > Central China (41.68 ± 19.44 ng/L) > Southern China (40.99 ± 16.54 ng/L). The source modeling analysis revealed that the majority of PAHs came from chemical production and metal smelting (42.36%), as well as from the combustion of coal, wood, and biomass (34.17%), and other mixed sources. In addition, the study found a strong correlation between water quality and socio-economic factors with concentrations of PAHs, indicating that these factors may contribute to the re-enrichment, transport, and transformation of PAHs in overlying water to varying degrees. The mean incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) was lower than the risk threshold. These findings provide scientific references for managing hazardous substances in the aquatic environment.

Volatile N-nitrosamines in processed meat products: An approach for monitoring dietary exposure, assessing human risk, and evaluating variable correlations by principal component analysis and heat map

Several epidemiological studies have reported a positive association between the consumption of processed meats containing N-nitrosamines (NAs) and the incidence of hepatocellular and colon cancer. The health risk assessment in this investigation was based on the concentration of six volatile N-nitrosamines (VNAs) (N-nitrosodimethylamine, N-nitrosodiethylamine, N-nitrosomethylethylamine, N-nitrosopiperidine, N-nitrosodibutylamine, and N-nitrosodi-n-propylamine) found in processed meat products (sausage and kielbasa) in the Iranian market. Direct supported liquid membrane two-phase hollow fiber electromembrane extraction coupled to gas chromatography/mass spectrometry was used to analyse six VNAs. The mean concentration of the six VNAs in sausages and kielbasa was 38.677 ± 27.56 and 48.383 ± 35.76 μg/kg, respectively. The 95th percentile for the chronic daily intake of total VNAs for children (3–14 years) and adults (15–70 years) were calculated to be 5.06 × 10−4 and 1.09 × 10−4 mg/kg bw/day, respectively. The cancer risk assessment showed that the risk associated with NDEA was the highest among the other VNAs studied in Iranian processed meat, with a 95th percentile for the child and adult groups. Based on an incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) value of ≤10−4 for the carcinogenic effects of exposure to a total of six VNAs, it indicates low concern for all age groups.

The assessment of organic contaminants at a paint manufacturing site: implications for health risks and source identification

The daily variation of organic contaminants, both gaseous and associated with suspended particulate matter, was investigated within the National Company of Paintings estate in Lakhdaria, Algeria, spanning the period 2014-2015. The research emphasizes the chemical characterization of suspended particulate matter, analyzing a range of organic compounds, including n-alkanes, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and highly polar organics (HPOC), such as phthalate esters and heterocyclic compounds. Vapours of PAHs and polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs) were also analyzed. Low molecular weight compounds were primarily associated with the gas phase (2-ring PAHs, approximately 95%; 3-ring PAHs, around 70%), while high molecular weight congeners were mainly associated with the particle phase (6-ring PAHs, 55%). The concentrations of PCBs (ranging from 0.6 to 42 ng m-3) were higher than those reported in other cities in Algeria and Europe. The source reconciliation of organic contaminants through principal component analysis (PCA) demonstrated that the primary sources were petroleum combustion, industrial manufacturing, tobacco smoking, and vehicular traffic. The significance of tobacco smoke was further confirmed by the analysis of PAHs diagnostic ratios. The variations in diagnostic ratio rates between gaseous and particulate PAHs were attributed to distinct contributions from sources such as industrial processes. Health risks for workers exposed to PAHs and PCBs in PM10 were quantitatively assessed in terms of Benzo[a]pyrene equivalent concentration (BaPeq) and incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR). ILCR presents novel findings, showcasing heightened risks among workers exposed to specific PAHs within production areas, whereas that related to PCBs suggested a high potential health risk for laboratory workers.

Seasonal variation and concentration of PAHs in Lake Balaton sediment: A study on molecular weight distribution and sources of pollution

The temporal and spatial variations of 16 Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) were examined at multiple sites around Lake Balaton from February 2023 to January 2024. The results indicated that the concentrations of PAHs in sediment were high during the winter months, 448.35 to 619.77 ng/g dry weight, and low during the summer months, 257.21 to 465.49 ng/g dry weight. The concentration of high molecular weight PAHs (HMWPAHs), consisting of 5–6 rings, was greater than that of low molecular weight PAHs (LMWPAHs), which had 2–3 rings. The total incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) for both dermal and ingestion pathways was high for both adults and children during the four seasons, with the highest records as the following: winter > spring > summer > autumn. The ecological effects of the 16 PAHs were negligible except for acenaphthylene (Acy) and fluorene (Fl), which displayed slightly higher concentrations during the autumn and spring, respectively.

Evaluation of potentially toxic elements within the vicinity of an integrated agro industry, Nigeria

The contamination of soils and crops by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) affects the food quality and it is perceived as a huge threat to human health. PTEs (Chromium, Cadmium, Lead, Copper, Nickel and Zinc) were evaluated in soil and crop (Manihot esculenta) around an integrated agro industry in Nsukka in two different seasons using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS). The concentration status of these PTEs, their ecological risks and human health risk potential associated with their consumption were evaluated. The following PTE mean concentration ranges (ppm) were found in the crop throughout the dry season: Zn (0.0115 - 0.1470), Pb(0.2499 - 0.2601), Cu(0.0215 - 0.1359), Ni(0.1029 - 0.3760), and Cr(0.1560 - 0.4279). During the wet season, the mean concentration ranges (ppm) of PTEs in crop are as follows: chromium (undetectable (ND) - 0.3498), Cd(ND - 0.0598), Pb(ND - 0.1989), Cu(0.0218 - 0.0860), Ni(0.1029 - 0.1116), Zn(0.0090 - 0.0720), and so on. During the dry season, the PTEs in soil are as follows: Cr(0.1180 - 0.3887), Cd(0.0597 - 0.1313), Pb(0.2598 - 0.8330), Cu(0.0333 - 0.1834), Ni(0.2069 - 0.7860), and Ni(0.1160 - 1.7550). The following are the mean concentration ranges (ppm) of PTEs found in soil during the wet season: Zn(0.0119 -0.1013), Pb(0.2981 - 0.3974), Cu(0.0220 - 0.0860), Ni(0.1034 - 0.4449), and Cr(ND - 0.1561). The health risk index for Manihot esculenta, according to its non-carcinogenic human health risk assessment, was as follows: Pb(2.598 for adults and 9.329 for children in the dry season) and Cd(0.342) and chromium (0.449) on farm 1, respectively; Zn, Cu and Ni did not exhibit any health risk values; Cr(1.226 and 1.001 for children in the dry and wet seasons) on farm 2, and other metals did not exhibit any human health risk values; on farm 3, Pb(2.498 for adults and 8.974 for children in the dry season), Cd(0.852 and 0.685 for children in the wet and dry seasons respectively) and (0.239 and 0.192 for adults in the wet and dry seasons respectively), while the other metals did not exhibit any health risk values. According to the carcinogenic health risk evaluation, every metal evaluated had an incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) value between 10−3 and 10−6 for adults and children on every farm that was studied. According to the ecological risk index, pollution load index (PLI), the levels of contamination (Cf), transfer factor (Tf) and degree of contamination (Cd) were all below the corresponding threshold limits. This generally showed that the vicinity of the industry is relatively polluted and there should be a regulatory enforcement on the surrounding environment.

Size Distributions and Health Risks of Particulate Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in the Atmosphere at Coastal Areas in Ningbo, China.

Most current research focusing on the health risk assessments of particulate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have not analyzed the size distributions and human respiratory deposition rates. In the present study, size-separated particulate matter (PM) was collected in the coastal area of Ningbo using an Anderson eight-stage air sampler over a 1-year period (2014-2015). The 16 US Environmental Protection Agency priority PAHs associated with PM were pretreated with rapid solvent extraction and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The respiratory exposure assessment was determined using the multiple-path particle dosimetry (MPPD) model. The results show that all PAHs exhibited bimodal distribution with one mode peak in accumulation mode (0.43-0.65 µm) and another mode peak in coarse mode (4.7-5.8 µm). In addition, a low coefficient of divergence of PAHs between PM2.1 and PM2.1-10 indicated a high spatial heterogeneity in source factor contribution and formation mechanism. The deposition fluxes (tracheobronchial + pulmonary) of PM were highest for children in the size range of 3.3 µm < particle diameter (Dp) < 9 µm, while for males and females the highest fluxes occurred in the size range of 1.1 µm < Dp < 2.1 µm. The depositions of coarse PM in children were significantly higher than those in adults. The benzo[a]pyrene equivalent (BaPeq) depositions of dibenz[a,h]anthracene ranged from 1.4e-04 to 0.015 ng h-1, which were highest among the PAHs. The PAHs on particles with Dp >4.7 µm contributed approximately three times more to children than to males and females. Therefore, the toxicity of coarse PM to children needed attention. The incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCR) for children, males, and females were estimated to be 2.92 × 10-7, 1.82 × 10-7, and 2.38 × 10-7, respectively, which were below the cancer risk guideline value (10-6). These ILCR values were much lower than the risks calculated without considering particle size distributions and respiratory depositions. The combination of the size-segregated sampling technique and the MPPD model can effectively avoid the overestimation of human respiratory exposure. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-14. © 2024 SETAC.

Human health risks of trace metals through the dietary intake of potato tubers and exposures of potato cultivating soils: A case study of Mymensingh district, Bangladesh

BackgroundTrace metal contamination in soil and farm products is common in Bangladesh, which enhances public awareness. Most of the studies in our country ignored potential human health risks from different routes of exposures to trace metals present in potato tubers and potato-growing soils. ObjectivesThe study objectives were to measure trace metals pollution level in soils, and to evaluate human health risks due to dietary intake of potato tubers, as well as ingestion, dermal and inhalation exposures of potato-cultivating soils of Mymensingh district, Bangladesh. MethodsAn atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used to determine Cd, Ni, Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn, Fe, Co, and Mn in the extract of soils and potato tubers. The study employed contamination factor (CF), pollution load index (PLI), and potential ecological risk index (PERI) to evaluate the level of soil pollution. Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic human health risks were assessed based on calculated Hazard Quotient and Cumulative Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (∑ILCR), respectively. ResultsA threshold of "moderate contamination" (1.0 ≤ CF < 3.0) can be assigned to certain soil sampling sites based on the computed CF values for Ni, Cd, and Pb. On the contrary, the calculated PERI indicated that the soils of potato-cultivating regions of the study area are ecologically free from pollution. Regarding non-cancer risks, the measured hazard quotient (HQ) values for all avenues of exposure to trace metals were below 1.0, indicating that they are safe for human health. On the other hand, the calculated incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) values for Ni in 83.3% of potato tuber samples for both sexes and Cd in 58.3% of males and 91.7% of females had scores greater than 1.00E-04, which indicates carcinogenic risks to adult humans. However, the estimated mean ∑ILCR for males and females in various routes of exposure showed a decreasing trend in the order of ILCROral (potato ingestion) >ILCRSoil ingestion >ILCRDermal adsorption >ILCRSoil inhalation. ConclusionThe agricultural soils of Bangladesh are becoming progressively degraded due to multiple contamination causes along with trace metals. The investigation recommended that future traceability efforts focus on locating possible sites of entry for toxic metals into the nation's food supply chain.

Evaluating hydrogeochemistry and heavy metal contamination of groundwater at Ranipet environs: employing multivariate statistics, agricultural indices, and health risk assessment.

Water plays an essential role in sustaining life on Earth as an indispensable natural resource. In recent decades, dependence on groundwater for domestic and industrial purposes has become inevitable. The Ranipet industrial environs (RIE) has many tanneries and chemical industries, which affects the groundwater quality. This study assessed groundwater quality and its suitability for domestic, agricultural, and human health risk assessments. 40 groundwater samples (28 open wells and 12 bore wells) were collected during pre-monsoon 2022 and analyzed by employing multivariate statistics, standard scatter plots, irrigation indices, and health risk assessment. The results of hydrogeochemical analysis and multivariate statistics affirmed that electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), calcium (Ca2+), and magnesium (Mg2+) have controlled the hydrochemistry of RIE. Cadmium (Cd) at 46% and chromium (Cr) at 33% have contaminated the groundwater in the study area, making it unsuitable for human consumption and irrigation. The agricultural indices analysis results show groundwater quality ranging from very poor to unsuitable making it unsuitable and also affects crop productivity. Hazard index (HI) results infer that Cr and Cd severely contaminated the RIE's groundwater, encompassing 14 villages, making the groundwater unfit for drinking, domestic use, and irrigation. Hazard quotient (HQ) and incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) analysis revealed that 2 in 100 infants and 3 in 1000 people over the age of 63 are likely to develop cancer due to Cr and Cd in the REI. This is a need-of-the-hour problem, addressing this issue with preventive measures to ensure the protection of groundwater sources will lead to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).

Entropy-weighted water quality index, hydrogeochemistry, and Monte Carlo simulation of source-specific health risks of groundwater in the Morava River plain (Serbia)

Population growth, urbanization, industry, floods, and agriculture globally degrade groundwater in river plains, necessitating action for its quality assessment and management. Hence, a comprehensive methodology, including hydrogeochemical facies (Piper, Gibbs), irrigation indices (SAR, Wilcox), entropy-weighted water quality index (EWQI), positive matrix factorization (PMF), and Monte Carlo simulation of source-specific health risks was used in this study to analyze groundwater in the Morava river plain (Serbia). The results revealed a prevalent Ca–Mg–HCO3 groundwater type, influenced by water–rock interactions. Although groundwater was found suitable for irrigation, only 66.7 % of the samples were considered drinkable. Agricultural activities, natural processes, and municipal wastewater were identified as primary pollution sources. The incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) and hazard index (HI) threshold exceedance for adults and children ranged from 8.5 % to 39 % of the samples, with arsenic identified as the most risk-contributing contaminant. These findings provide valuable insights for researchers studying groundwater vulnerability in river plains.