Non-carcinogenic Health Effects Research Articles

Assessment of Nicotine delivery capabilities and evaluation of human health risk of metals associated with selected tobacco products

The use of smokeless tobacco has increased, particularly among Ghana's youth, due in part to perceived medicinal benefits and the belief that it is less harmful and non-addictive. In response to this trend, we systematically classified 51 different tobacco products based on their potential toxicity as determined by potentially toxic elements, addiction potential, and nicotine delivery capability. Moisture, pH, and percentage-free base nicotine were measured using certified methods. X-ray fluorescence techniques were used to determine tobacco products' concentrations of target elements (Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, Rb, Sr, Mo, V, S, U, Zr, Tl, and Zn). Locally produced snuff products had the highest nicotine delivery capacity, with a pH of 9.73 and 96.98% freebase nicotine. Dried tobacco leaves followed closely, with a mean pH of 7.39 and percentage free base nicotine of 25.93%, whereas cigarette products had the lowest nicotine delivery capability (mean pH: 5.49; percentage free base nicotine: 0.33%). In the snuff category, menthol-flavored products delivered more nicotine (pH of 9.96; percentage free base nicotine of 98.8%) than moringa-flavored alternatives (pH of 9.77; percentage free base nicotine of 98%). Users of the smuggled cigarette product C6 were found to be susceptible to increased non-carcinogenic health effects, as indicated by a hazard index (HI) value of 1108.35, while C4, with the highest pH of 5.58 and a corresponding %A (addiction potential) of 0.70, demonstrated the greatest addiction potential among the examined cigarette products. Our findings indicate that locally produced snuff and dried tobacco leaves have potentially high addictive properties, emphasizing the risk of tobacco dependence. Furthermore, these products may have non-carcinogenic health effects, as indicated by elevated hazard quotients and hazard indices. These findings provide important insights into the various characteristics of tobacco products in Ghana, which may aid in developing targeted public health interventions.

Health and environmental risk assessment of mercury in outdoor and indoor dust in artisanal and small-scale gold mining area in Amansie-west district in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.

Mercury (Hg) pollution around artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) areas has been of much concern. Many studies have reported elevated Hg concentrations in environmental media, but studies on dust relating to inhalation exposure of Hg around ASGM area are limited. In this study, we investigated Hg in indoor and outdoor dust to reveal environmental and human health risk around ASGM in Amansie West district, Ghana. Indoor and outdoor dust samples were collected from Manso Abore and Manso Nkwanta in Ashanti Region. Concentration of Hg in the samples were analyzed using a direct Hg analyzer. The mean and median value of Hg concentration in the indoor dust (n = 31) were 2.2 ± 3.6mg/kg and 0.72mg/kg respectively while that of the outdoor dust (n = 60) were 0.19 ± 0.48mg/kg and 0.042mg/kg, respectively. The mean and median Hg concentration in indoor dust were about 11 and 17 times higher respectively than that in the outdoor dust. The Hg concentration in the indoor dust was statistically significantly higher than that of the non-miner in Manso Abore (p < 0.05) but was not significant in Manso Nkwanta, probably due to higher mining activity. The geo-accumulation index of the outdoor dust ranged from unpolluted to extremely polluted while that of the indoor dust ranged from moderately polluted to extremely polluted. Health risk assessments suggested that there was no potential non-carcinogenic health effect for Hg exposure relating to the dust to residents living in rooms of miners and non-miners.

Chemometrics, health and environmental risk assessments of commonly consumed biscuits in Lagos and Ibadan metropolises, Southwestern Nigeria

The United Nations' Agenda 2030 for sustainable development calls, amongst others, for universal action toward ending malnutrition and ensuring healthy living and well-being for all. So, efforts have intensified to attain the sustainable development goal-2 targets on stunting and wasting in children. Reported herein, therefore, is the quantification of metals in biscuits. Biscuits are commonly consumed snacks world-over and have become sources of nourishment for children and adults due to growing sedentary lifestyles and hectic school/work schedules. Nine metals (Pb, Ni, Cu, Co, Zn, Fe, Na, Mg and Ca) were assayed in six biscuit types (crackers, cookies, shortcakes, digestives, cabins and wafers) via wet digestion and flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and the ensuing data subjected to multivariate analyses (analysis of variance, Tukey's test, Pearson correlation, and principal component and hierarchical cluster analyses). The highest concentrations of macrominerals were found in the wafers (Ca), crackers (Na) and cabins (Mg) whereas the micronutrients peaked in the cookies (Fe, Zn), crackers (Cu), shortcake (Co) and wafers (Ni), respectively. The metal levels in the sampled biscuits were all safe for consumption, except for Pb at 0.83 ± 0.76–2.3 ± 1.3 mg/kg. Similarly, the health risk assessments of ingesting metals from the biscuits exposed Pb as potentially liable to cause adverse non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health effects in children (aged 4–20 years) but Co and Ni exhibited borderline non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks, respectively, in children. Gratifyingly, the ecological risk assessments to evaluate the likelihood of wastes, from expired and/or egested potentially toxic metals-contaminated biscuits, to cause damage to ecology were categorized as low. Nonetheless, constant evaluation and monitoring remain germane.

Occurrence and health risk estimate of organochlorine pesticides in fruits and vegetables matrices.

Occurrence of 20 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in 60 organic and non-organic fruits and vegetables matrices was undertaken using QuEChERS Method EN 15662 for sample preparation analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). The procedural method was validated by spiking the OCP standard solutions at three fortified levels at 10, 50, and 100 µg/kg wet weight (ww) to the real matrix of fruit and vegetable with good recovery ranging from 75 to 108% with relative standard deviation (RSD) ≤ 11%, and the limits of detection and quantification (LODs and LOQs) were 0.002-0.02μg/kg and 0.004-0.1μg/kg ww, respectively. The assessment of health risks associated with pesticide residues through consumption of vegetables and fruits and the effect of washing and peeling on concentration of various pesticides were also studied. The results showed that the concentration levels of 60% of samples were lower than the LOQs, while the rest was contaminated by OCP residues. Organic fruits and vegetables showed the absence of OCPs, while several of the studied compounds were detected from conventional agriculture. Skin removal (peeling) was the most effective strategy to eliminate or decrease pesticide residues, and should be one of the solutions to reduce the health impact of pesticides in fruits and vegetables. The analysis of health risk assessment was based on the use of the estimated average daily intake (EDI), hazard index (HI), and hazard ratio (HR) for individuals in two weight categories: children (weighing 16.7kg) and adults (weighing 60kg). The HI values were less than 1 suggesting that there was no probable non-carcinogenic health effect, except for heptachlor for children (HI of 1.285). However, the values of HR revealed that children were more susceptible to the carcinogenic health effect associated with consuming contaminated vegetables.

Health Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements Contamination of Commonly Consumed Fruits in Bahir Dar Town, Northwest Ethiopia.

Excess accumulation of potentially toxic elements in frequently consumed fruits is a serious threat to human health. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb) and to estimate the noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks associated with their daily intake in commonly consumed fruits in Bahir Dar town, northwest Ethiopia. Three types of fruits (mango, banana, and orange) were collected using a simple random sampling method from open markets in Bahir Dar town. Wet digestion was used, and the concentration of potentially toxic elements was analyzed in the edible portion of the fruits. The average daily intake (ADI), hazard quotient (HQ), hazard index (HI), and target cancer risk (TCR) were estimated to assess the human health risks posed by the intake of those potentially toxic elements from the consumption of the studied fruits. The concentrations of Cr and Cu were lower than the maximum limit of normal values in mango, banana, and orange. However, the Pb and Cd concentrations (mg kg-1) in mango were 0.576 and 1.771, respectively, which exceeded the FAO/WHO recommended permissible limits of 0.3 mg kg-1 and 0.2 mg kg-1, respectively. The ADI of potentially toxic elements was found to be lower than the maximum permitted tolerable daily intake in the studied fruits, and the HI values (mgday-1 kg-1) of all studied potentially toxic elements were lower than one in banana and orange, except mango (3.69). The TCR values for Pb, Cd, and Cr in banana and orange were 7.16 × 10-4 and 7.15 × 10-4, respectively, which exceeded the recommended threshold risk limit (>1 × 10-4), but in mango (1.71 × 10-3), the level was above the moderate risk limit (>1 × 10-3). However, the TCR value in all the studied fruits was above the recommended safe limit (ILCR < 1 × 10-6) set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA). The study revealed that the consumption of mango fruit in the studied areas may pose noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic adverse health effects.

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.

Mineral composition and heavy metal risk assesment of selected geophagic soils from Tanzania

Geophagy or Pica is the unintentional traditional behavior of eating soil by indigenous people in different countries. practiced in many countries due to nausea among pregnant women and mineral deficiencies without knowing the associated health risks. In this study the mineral composition of geophagic soil and its associated health risk among consumers was determined. Dry soil sticks consumed by women were obtained from open markets in Morogoro, Njombe and Mwanza regions in Tanzania. The elemental concentration of geophagic soil was analyzed using Flame Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer. Health risk assessment methods were used to obtain health information after chronic exposure to geophagic soils. The tests used were Target Hazard Quotients (THQ), Total Target Hazard Quotients (TTHQ) and Cancer Risks (CR). The concentration range of metals in samples obtained from three different regions were 16,335.7–47,773.7 mg/kg for Fe, 46.2–1073.5 mg/kg for Ca, 155.3–514.9 mg/kg for K, 44.5–112.4 mg/kg for Zn, 40.7–95.1 mg/kg for Na, 2.4–66.7 mg/kg for Cu, 109.5–572.6 mg/kg for Mn, 3.8–6.85 mg/kg for Pb, 3.1–93 mg/kg for Ni, 62.7–638.6 mg/kg for Cr and 0.4 mg/kg for Cd. The Provisional Daily Intake (PDI), THQ, TTHQ and CR ranged between 3.0 × 10−3 –34.12 mg/kg/day bw, 0.043–48.75, 34.52–77.36 and 2.55×10−5- 0.23 respectively. The TTHQ>1 was evident for metals in all sampling sites which is indicative of non-carcinogenic health effects. Prolonged exposure to Pb at low concentrations in samples from all the sites can cause pathological effects. The cancer risk values for Pb, Ni, Cr and Cd were <1 in which the consumer is likely not to develop cancer in a life time. Essential minerals – Fe, Ca, Zn, Na, K and toxic metals Pb, Cr, Ni and Cu were detected in all the samples. Cd occurred only in samples from Mwanza region that was below the tolerable daily intake. According to WHO/FAO expert’s joint committee any amount of Pb consumption is not permitted. Given the presence of essential minerals in the geophagic soils which are however accompanied by toxic minerals in some cases which might have carcinogenic effects, prolonged consumption should be discouraged to avoid risks of serious adverse effects to the health of the general population.

Health risk assessment of exposure to benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes in a vehicle manufacturing industry in Iran

IntroductionConsidering the adverse carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health effects of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) and specially Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene and Xylenes (BTEX) which are widely used in vehicle manufacturing industry, it is clear that monitoring and control of occupational exposure to these substances is of utmost significance. More often than not the studies on occupational exposure to VOCs in vehicle manufacturing industry—specifically BTEX—have been carried out exclusively in paint shop units. The purpose of this study was to assess occupational BTEX exposure & health risk in different units of a vehicle manufacturing industry.Material and methodsFoam injection unit (FIU), gluing unit (GU), repair shop unit (RSU), molding unit (MU) as well as paint shop units (PSU) were selected for this study. Sampling and analysis were conducted based on National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) 1501 guidelines by utilizing MSA personal sampling pumps set to 0.2 l/m and Gas Chromatography equipped with Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID). Risk characterization and assessment was performed using Environmental Protection Agency Risk Assessment Information System (EPA RAIS).Results and conclusionThe results revealed that the concentration of benzene in gluing and paint shop units was above occupational exposure limits. Carcinogenic risk levels in 8 out of 10 units registered in the 1E-2 to 1E-4 range, and only two units registered a risk level below EPA’s acceptable risk level (10–6). The highest risk levels were measured in gluing, paint shop and repair shop units. Furthermore, the total non-carcinogenic hazard quotient was measured higher than 1 in 8 out of 10 studied units. Considering the abundance and wide use of VOCs -most notably BTEX- and the adverse carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health effects of these compounds, it is advised to: change the type of paint used in paint shops, improve the existing ventilation systems, develop new and more efficient ventilation systems and conduct consistent training.

Urine manganese, cadmium, lead, arsenic, and selenium among autism spectrum disorder children in Kuala Lumpur.

The development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may stem from exposure to environmental pollutants such as heavy metals. The primary objective of this study is to determine the role of heavy metals of concern such as manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and essential trace element selenium (Se) among ASD children in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. A total of 155 preschoolers in Kuala Lumpur between the ages 3 to 6 participated in an unmatched case-control study, comprising ASD children (n=81) recruited from an early intervention program for autism, and 74 children without autism who were recruited from public preschools. Urine samples were collected at home, delivered to the study site, and transported to the environmental lab within 24 hours. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was applied to measure the concentration of heavy metals in the samples. Data were analysed using bivariate statistical tests (Chi-square and T-test) and logistic regression models. This study demonstrated that Cd, Pb, and As urine levels were significantly greater in children without autism relative to those affected with ASD (p<0.05). No significant difference was in the levels of Se (p=0.659) and Mn (p=0.875) between children with ASD and the control group. The majority of children in both groups have urine As, Pb, and Cd values lower than 15.1 µg/dL, 1.0 µg/dL, and 1.0 µg/dL, respectively which are the minimal risk values for noncarcinogenic detrimental human health effect due to the heavy metal's exposure . Factors associated with having an ASD child included being a firstborn, male, and higher parental education levels (adjusted odds ratios (aOR) > 1, p<0.05). Preschoolers in this study demonstrated low levels of heavy metals in their urine samples, which was relatively lower in ASD children compared to the healthy matched controls. These findings may arise from the diminished capacity to excrete heavy metals, especially among ASD children, thereby causing further accumulation of heavy metals in the body. These findings, including the factors associated with having an ASD child, may be considered by healthcare professionals involved in child development care, for early ASD detection. Further assessment of heavy metals among ASD children in the country and interventional studies to develop effective methods of addressing exposure to heavy metals will be beneficial for future reference.

Levels and Health Risk Assessments of Heavy Metals in Khat and Its Support Soil in Algesachi, Ilu Ababor, Ethiopia.

Khat (Catha edulis Forsk) is a stimulant plant grown in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Heavy metal pollution has been a global concern due to its acute and chronic health effects and the major route of exposure is the consumption of contaminated foods. In this study, the determination and health risk assessment of heavy metals (Mn, Cu, Zn, Ni, Cr, Cd, and Pb) in khat and its support soil samples was carried out. Khat and its support soil were analyzed for the levels of 7 toxic heavy metals by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Samples were randomly collected from 3 districts of khat farming kebeles and digested using mixture of strong acids. The concentrations (mg/kg) of analytes in soil and khat samples were: Cu (6.78-35.80); Zn (24.30-199.02); Mn (7.59-1855.40); Ni (6.37-64.80); Cr (0.82-169.20); Cd (14.2-38.8), and Pb (ND). Among the analyzed heavy metals in soil, Mn was with the highest concentration, followed by Zn, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Cd while that of Zn was the maximum followed by Cu, Mn, and Cr in khat. The levels of Zn, Cr, and Cd in soil samples from all study sites and detected concentrations of Cr in khat samples exceeded the recommended FAO/WHO levels. The hazard index (HI) of metals in khat from study areas was less than 1 indicating a less likelihood of non-carcinogenic toxicological health effects. However, the presence of these toxic chemicals in soil and khat indicates product contamination and needs extensive further investigation involving other heavy metals.

Levels, distribution, origins, and human health risk evaluation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in groundwater around a petroleum depot wastewater discharge point

This study is an attempt to assess the influence of the oil storage depot discharges on proximate water sources in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria. Fifteen priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were examined in a total of 15 water samples (10 groundwater +4 surface water samples) utilizing gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, after extraction of the waters with dichloromethane and clean-up of the extracts. Results revealed that values of overall PAHs in groundwater (GW) and surface water (SW) varied from 0.01 to 3.45 mg/L (mean = 0.42 mg/L) and 0.01 to 0.09 mg/L (mean = 0.05 mg/L), correspondingly. The highest value of ∑15 PAHs (3.45 mg/L) was observed at 24 m to the discharge point. The ring wise distribution pattern of the PAHs in collected water samples follows the order: 2–3 rings >5–6 rings >4 – ring PAHs and low molecular weight (LMW) PAHs accounted for 90.73% relative to HMW (9.27%) in groundwater samples. The diagnostic ratios suggested that the PAHs pollution in water were likely from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, vehicle emissions and released petroleum effluents from nearby depot. The concentration of carcinogenic PAHs in GW and SW ranged from 1×10−2to 9×10−2 mg/L and 1×10−2to 7×10−2 mg/L, correspondingly, which highlights possible human health risks. The values of hazard index (HI) for the studied samples via the oral ingestion and dermal exposure pathways are less than unity, suggesting no adverse non-carcinogenic health effects. The calculated incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) for adults and children are in the 10−2–10−3 range, implying noteworthy possible carcinogenic health effects to human beings, with children being the most susceptible. Correspondingly, dibenzo [a, h] anthracence (DahA) and Benzo [a] pyrene (BaP) were established to be of greater carcinogenic threats in the waters taken from the study location. The study advocates complete discontinuance of discharge release into the neighboring environment.

Improving evaluation of groundwater heavy metal(loid)s pollution efficiencies: Insights from novel Shannon entropy-weight and one-way ANOVA analysis

This study explores the hydrogeochemical behaviour of heavy metal(loid)s [HMs] in groundwater, their seasonal variations in enrichment and depletion, and adverse effects on human health in the Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh, a part of the Ghaghara River basin, India. The Shannon's Entropy-Weighted Heavy Metal(loid)s Index (EW-HMI), a novel tool, has been applied to quantify cumulative groundwater pollution levels at each 42 monitoring sites, including critical evaluation of existing conventional pollution indices. Results from One-way ANOVA analysis indicate a significant seasonal difference in the mean concentrations of As, Fe, and Mn, demonstrating that monsoonal recharge is a governing factor for observed seasonal variation. The computation of EW-HMI reveals that >50% of sites are marked by ‘poor’ to ‘extremely poor’ water quality in Pre-monsoon 2022 (Pre-M). Distinctly, there is a notable improvement in 'excellent water quality', increasing from 9.5 to 57.1% in Post-monsoon 2022 (Post-M). This pattern of temporal change in EW-HMI, in contrast to HPI, is clearly depicted by the GIS-based spatial distribution maps. Thus, EW-HMI is a robust index and more effectively addresses apparent flaws in conventional indexing systems that could be used for wider applications. Health risk assessments (HRA) show that both children and adults in the Bahraich district are at risk of non-carcinogenic (NCR) and carcinogenic (CR) health effects from drinking contaminated groundwater. Children are anticipated to have a higher total CR mean value of 3.6 and 1.7 per 1000 children while adults estimated to have relatively low total CR mean values of 2.3 and 1.1 per 1000 adults in Pre-M and Post-M, respectively. This research offers valuable findings that can guide policymakers and stakeholders in identifying priority areas to facilitate the implementation of sustainable water resource management initiatives on both national and global scales.

Heavy metal quantification in chicken meat and egg: An emerging food safety concern

Heavy metal contamination in widely consumed foods is a significant safety concern. This study aimed to determine heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, and Mn) in different parts of chicken meats (variety: Poultry and Sonali) and eggs (n = 180) collected from different local markets of Dhaka, Bangladesh. The analysis of heavy metals was carried out using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Alarmingly, 75% of the poultry bone and 60% of the egg albumens and yolks exceeded the maximum allowable concentration (MAC) of Pb set by the Codex Alimentarius. Moreover, 40% of the poultry bone and 89% of the egg samples surpassed the MAC of Cd. The estimated daily intake (EDI) values for Pb and Cd exceeded the respective provisional tolerable daily intake (PTDI) levels. The incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCR) of Pb and Cd in the detected samples exceeded the threshold risk limit (ILCR>10−4) for adult and child consumers, indicating carcinogenic health risks. The hazard index (HI) values of poultry bone for adults (4.1) and children (7.8) exceeded the benchmark (HI=1), indicating non-carcinogenic health effects. This study might help policymakers and regulatory authorities identify non-compliance and apply control measures to produce safe meat and eggs for safeguarding public health.

Occurrence, toxicity load, pollution index and health risk assessment of trace elements in drinking water of two catchments in North-western Himalayas

ABSTRACT The study focuses on the analysis of trace metals in drinking water from the Ganderbal and Budgam districts of Jammu and Kashmir. We have used high-resolution inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HR-ICP-MS) to measure the concentrations of 31 trace metals in the water samples. The measured concentrations were then compared with the permissible limits set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), and World Health Organization (WHO). The results of the study indicate that arithmetic mean of several trace elements, including aluminum (Al = 781), chromium (Cr = 139), manganese (Mn = 41.86), nickel (Ni = 25.89), molybdenum (Mo = 1.30), cadmium (Cd = 36.86), and mercury (Hg = 67.65), in µg l−1 were found to have concentrations higher than their respective permissible limits. On the other hand, the arithmetic mean of elements, such as beryllium (Be = 0.14), boron (B = 32.72), iron (Fe = 233), cobalt (Co = 1.79), copper (Cu = 10.71), arsenic (As = 0.93), selenium (Se = 3.13), strontium (Sr = 257), zinc (Zn = 43), antimony (Sb = 1.44), barium (Ba = 28.56), gold (Au = 0.91), and lead (Pb = 0.91) in µg l−1, had concentrations below the permissible limits recommended by USEPA, BIS, and WHO. To assess the toxicity of the heavy metals in the study area, we calculated the Heavy Metal Toxicity Load (HMTL) for each metal. Based on these calculations, we concluded that only cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr) need to be removed from drinking water to ensure safety. The study also conducted a health risk assessment for children and adults based on the measured concentrations of heavy metals. The assessment considered the ingestion and dermal contact routes of exposure. The Hazard Index (HI), which indicates the non-carcinogenic health effects, exceeded unity for only one element, cadmium (Cd), in the children and adult groups. This suggests potential non-carcinogenic health risks associated with the ingestion of water and dermal contact. Additionally, the potential carcinogenic risk of cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) was identified and recommended for further attention. The study further evaluated the Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI) to assess the overall quality of drinking water in the study area. The HPI results indicated that the quality of drinking water was good, and the pollution levels in the study area were low. Overall, the findings of this study provide valuable information for water resource development and supply agencies. The results can be used as a baseline for future research and monitoring efforts in the region.

Human Health Risk Assessment of Metals and Metalloids in Groundwater Resources around the Sanitation Facilities in major Markets from Abeokuta Metropolis, Southwestern Nigeria

BackgroundGroundwater is a sustainable resource that provides potable water for millions of people. Contamination of groundwater by metals and metalloids (MMs) may, therefore, pose serious health threats to consumers. ObjectiveThis study aimed at assessing the health risk of MMs in groundwater resources around the vicinity of sanitation facilities at different markets in Abeokuta metropolis, southwestern Nigeria. MethodsFifty hand-dug wells around the waste sanitation facilities in ten markets from the Abeokuta metropolis were monitored. Groundwater samples were analysed for MMs using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Data were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistics. Health risk assessment (non-carcinogenic hazard quotient [HQ], and cancer risk [CR]) were estimated in groundwater. ResultsSignificantly higher (p<0.01) levels of MMs were observed in groundwater from the market areas than in the control site. The health risk assessment showed high HQs greater than the acceptable limit of 1.0 for Mn and Pb, establishing non-carcinogenic adverse health effects. Co also indicated carcinogenic effects in the groundwater from the market areas showing a CR value greater than the permissible limit of 1.0 × 10−4. ConclusionThis study established the detrimental effects of market wastes on the surrounding groundwater quality.

Heavy Metal Content in Fish of the Barguzin River (Eastern Cisbaikalia) and Assessment of Potential Risks to Human Health

In this paper, the levels of nine heavy metals in the organs and tissues of six commercially important fish species from the Barguzin River (Eastern Cisbaikalia, Russia), bream Abramis brama, roach Rutilus rutilus, crucian carp Carassius carassius, common carp Cyprinus carpio, perch Perca fluviatilis and northern pike Esox lucius, were investigated. The distribution of HMs in the fish organs and tissues was unequal and was determined by both their physiological functions and routes of entry. The study also characterized the environmental habitats, including water and sediments, and conducted an assessment of potential risks to human health associated with fish consumption. The results showed that the levels of Fe, Zn, Cu, Ni, Cd, Pb, Cr and Hg in the muscle tissue of fish from the Barguzin River were generally low and did not exceed the maximum allowable concentrations established in Russia and worldwide. However, Mn levels in a number of samples exceeded the corresponding maximum allowable concentrations, which may be attributed to its elevated presence in the habitat. The calculated fish condition factor K showed good health status of fish from the Barguzin River. The highest Metal Pollution Index values were recorded for northern pike scales (5.9), which, however, corresponded to a low level of contamination. The other metal pollution index values for fish organs and tissues were all below five, indicating either no or very low contamination. Risk to human health was assessed using target hazard quotients and hazard index. None of these indices, both for each fish species studied and for each of the nine heavy metals, exceeded one. This indicated that consumption of the fish species studied did not pose an excessive risk of non-carcinogenic health effects to humans. The data on the content of nine heavy metals in the main commercially caught fish species from the Barguzin River indicated a low level of tissue and organ contamination by heavy metals and the absence of health risks to humans associated with their consumption as food.

Importance of arsenic bioaccessibility in health risk assessment based on iron “Minette” rocks and related soils

Total element concentrations by themselves are not always good predictors of toxicity and are therefore not suitable for eco- and/or human toxicological risk determination. In addition, despite the growing call for harmonization, countries show significant variation in risk assessment tools, screening/background values, protocols and legal management of soils. By incorporating mobility and bioaccessibility/availability into soil risk assessments, location-specific physico-chemical and geological conditions can be considered in routinely applied general risk assessment methodologies. Minette soils and rocks are a great case in point since they often are associated with high geogenic As concentrations and consequently potential risks. Minette iron ores form the world largest Fe ore deposits since the “great oxidation”. For the first time, oral bioaccessibility during direct ingestion was assessed on Minettes from Luxembourg by applying the in vitro Solubility/Bioavailability Research Consortium (SBRC) method. Out of > 180 samples, 25 representative samples were selected providing a unique dataset which showed an average gastric bioaccessibility of ∼10% (7.8 ± 4.0 mg/kg) of the total As-concentration, with a maximum of 45% (17.9 mg/kg). Of importance is that bioaccessibility of As in Minette rocks and soils are controlled by, and can be estimated from, lithology, mineralogy and total Ca content. Soils and ooid grainstones with an iron oxide or clayey matrix, are characterized by average gastric bioaccessible As concentrations < 6 mg/kg. Gastric As bioaccessibility is highest in Fe-bearing calcite-cemented bioclastic grainstones (∼12 mg/kg). Importantly, for all samples the maximal bioaccessible As concentrations remain below the threshold from which significant adverse non-carcinogenic and/or carcinogenic health effects are expected. These new results are in strong contrast with what total As concentrations might suggest. Considering bioaccessibilities, consequently, can help to avoid disproportionate, costly and environmentally impacting risk management strategies. Furthermore, this study illustrates the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration between geo- and health scientists.

Occupational lead exposure health risk assessment and heme biosynthesis: A study on batik artisans in yogyakarta, Indonesia

This study aims to assess dermal and inhalation lead exposure levels among batik industry workers and evaluate noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks associated with lead exposure. We investigate potential relationships between lead exposure (dermal average daily dose and inhalation exposure concentration) and the workers' blood hemoglobin levels (Hb), as well as their urinary ALA (u-ALA) concentrations. Additionally, we explore any possible associations between Hb and u-ALA levels among the workers and identify various factors influencing lead exposure levels. A total of 30 workers were recruited for the study. Interviews and exposure sampling were conducted to measure dermal and inhaled lead exposure. Sample analysis methods include XRF for exposure samples, spectrophotometry for u-ALA, and HiCN colorimetric for Hb. Carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic risk assessments, correlation analysis, as well as ANOVA for factors analysis, were performed. The average dermal exposure dose and inhalation exposure concentration of lead were 6.53 ± 3.2 ng/kg/day and 0.021 ± 0.015 μg/m3, respectively. Hazard Index (HI) values for all workers were below 1 (average: 0.372 ± 0.155), indicating no expected noncarcinogenic health effects due to lead exposure. The average Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) was (5.18 ± 3.84) × 10−8, significantly below acceptable limits. Correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between Hb and u-ALA (r = −0.519, p = 0.058 for male workers and r = −0.531, p = 0.034 for female workers), supporting their use as lead exposure biomarkers. The factors analysis demonstrated a significant impact of working conditions on inhalation exposure (p = 0.018), with outdoor workers experiencing lower lead inhalation. This research provides crucial insights into potential dangers faced by batik workers due to lead exposure, emphasizing the importance of targeted interventions. The strong correlation between Hb and u-ALA indicates their combined effectiveness in detecting lead exposure, even at low levels. The study underscores the significance of outdoor work as a protective measure against inhaling heavy metals, such as lead, present in the air. The assessment of health risks associated with lead exposure in the batik industry lays the groundwork for informed decision-making and interventions to protect workers' well-being, particularly in informal sectors workplaces where health risks are often overlooked.

Assessment of fluoride exposure and associated health risks from different sources of drinking water to various age groups in Bathinda City, Punjab, India

The presence of elevated fluoride levels in Bathinda City, Punjab, India, has been a major health concern for residents. Previous studies have primarily focused on groundwater but have neglected other drinking water sources. The primary aims of this investigation are to analyze fluoride levels in various drinking water sources in Bathinda City, establish their relationship with physicochemical parameters, and appraise the non-carcinogenic health hazards associated with fluoride exposure for various age categories. A total of 296 water samples were collected, including groundwater (GW), surface water (SW), public water supply (PWS), bottled water (BW), private reverse osmosis water (PROW), municipal reverse osmosis water (MROW) (pre-and post-monsoon), and rainwater (RW). Fluoride levels were determined using a photometer (model: HI97739; make: Hanna Instruments) employing the SPADNS colorimetric procedure. The mean fluoride levels in different water sources were as follows: GW (3.77 mg L−1), SW (0.76 mg L−1), PWS (1 mg L−1), BW (1.4 mg L−1), PROW (0.94 mg L−1), MROW (pre-monsoon) (1.62 mg L−1), MROW (post-monsoon) (1.29 mg L−1), and RW (0.63 mg L−1). A significant proportion of GW (78.4%), PWS (14.3%), BW (37.5%), PROW (25%), and MROW (72.1% in pre-monsoon and 27.9% in post-monsoon) samples surpassed the World Health Organization guideline value. The study findings highlight the high fluoride levels in GW, BW, PROW, and MROW, making them hazardous for consumption. Hazard quotient analysis suggests that children face the highest risk of non-carcinogenic health effects from fluoride exposure, followed by teenagers, adults, senior citizens, and infants.

Lead, Mercury, and Cadmium Concentrations in Blood Products Transfused to Neonates: Elimination Not Just Mitigation.

Lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd) are identified as potent developmental neurotoxicants. Neonates are the main group receiving multiple blood transfusions. The exposure of neonates to these heavy metals (HMs) can occur through blood transfusions. This study aimed to determine the concentrations of lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd) in various blood products (plasma, platelets, packed red blood cells (pRBCs), and whole blood (WB)) to explore the probability of concurrent exposure of these HMs and to identify the metal load per transfusion with risk assessment. Residual bloods from blood bank bags were collected after neonatal transfusion. Pb, Hg, and Cd concentrations were determined in 120 samples of blood products by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Pb and Cd levels were over the normal levels in 19.2 and 5.9% of all blood units, respectively. In 35 and 0.8% of blood units, the Pb and Cd concentrations, respectively, were higher than that recommended for transfusions in premature neonates. The anticipated safe value was surpassed by 2.5% for Cd of all transfusions, primarily because of WB. However, Hg was detected only in 5.8% of all samples and their concentrations were within the normal range. The concurrent neonatal exposure to Pb, Hg, and Cd was statistically significant. Hazard quotients of Hg and Cr were >1 and Pb cancer risk was 2.41 × 10-4. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first report examining Pb, Hg, and Cd in blood products other than WB and pRBCs using ICP-MS. This study demonstrated the exposure of neonates to Pb, Hg, and Cd during transfusion with a considerable amount of Pb. It confirms the significant concurrent exposure to the three HMs, which maximize their potential developmental neurotoxicity with a high probability of developing non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health effects.