Assessment of Heavy Metals Concentration and Health Risk on Consumption of Waterleaf Grown Beside Automobile Workshop

This study assessed the level of concentration of heavy metals and health risks in the consumption of waterleaf (Talinum triangulare) grown beside an automobile workshop in Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area (LGA). The triangular research method was adopted for sample collection. The fresh samples of waterleaf were collected at three designated points at an automobile workshop in Akwa Ibom State University located in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin L.G.A. The samples were washed thoroughly using tap water to remove the dirt and other unwanted materials. The washed samples were put in polythene bags and taken to the laboratory for elemental analysis. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics (range, mean, and standard deviation) and one-way analysis of variance. The results obtained showed elevated levels of heavy metals and their average concentrations were as follows: Cadmium (7.30 mg/kg), Chromium (28.50 mg/kg), Lead (8.30 mg/kg), Zinc (140.30 mg/kg), Manganese (228.30 mg/kg), Nickel (36.10 mg/kg), Iron (784.20 mg/kg), and Calcium (15.70 mg/kg). The hazard identification index was 0.83 indicating potential health risks associated with the consumption of waterleaf contaminated with heavy m--etals. The results also showed that the proportion of heavy metals present in the waterleaf planted beside the automobile workshop exceeded World Health Organization Standards (WHO), thereby posing severe health risks when consumed. The sources of contamination and pathways through which heavy metals entered the soil include; diesel and fuel engine operation, abandoned cars, iron and scrap metals, grease and engine oil disposal, disposal of artificial wood, and the presence of a step-up transformer. Based on the results, an urgent need for remediation and health risk management strategies should be taken.