Estimation of potential health risks on metals and metalloids contaminants in black goby (Gobius niger) consumption in selected niger delta coast, nigeria

Introduction

The Niger Delta in Nigeria is subject to anthropogenic influences, impacting the quality of its water bodies, including the Sombrero River. This study aims to investigate the concentrations of metals and metalloids in Gobius niger from the Sombrero River, as these contaminants can pose risks to human health through seafood consumption. Specifically, zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd) were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS).

Materials and Methods

Samples were collected from three different stations along the Sombrero River. The concentrations of Zn, Fe, Cu, Pb, As, and Cd were determined using AAS. Hazard Quotients (HQ), Chronic Daily Intake (CDI), Hazard Index (HI), and Individual Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) values were calculated to assess the potential health risks associated with consuming fish contaminated with these metals and metalloids.

Results

Station 1 had the highest Zn concentration, followed by Fe, Cu, Pb, Cd, and As, with Zn reaching 104.8 ± 1.37 mg kg⁻¹. Station 2 exhibited a similar trend, while Station 3 had Zn as the predominant metal and metalloid. Notably, Pb, As, and Cd levels were consistently low at all stations. While Pb was within permissible limits set by FAO/WHO for contaminants in the fish samples, Zn exceeded regulatory guidelines, suggesting a potential source of contamination. Hazard Quotients (HQ) highlighted a significant risk associated with zinc, especially for children. Chronic Daily Intake values showed metals in fish consumed by adults and children were generally within safe limits, except for Zn, which exceeded Maximum Tolerable Daily Intake (MTDI). Hazard Index values pointed to a substantial long-term health risk, particularly for children due to high zinc levels. However, Individual Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) values were generally below 1, indicating relatively low cancer risks from G. niger consumption for both age groups.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the need for monitoring and managing metals and metalloid pollution in the Niger Delta region to ensure safe seafood consumption and community well-being. While certain metals pose minimal health risks, it highlights the necessity of specific interventions to reduce excessive zinc exposure and safeguard long-term health in the region.