Accumulation of metal residues in the tissues of Caranx hippos from rivers affected by industrial operations and its potential health risk implications

Abstract Background: This study assessed the human health risks caused by heavy metal (Fe, Pb, Cr, Cd, Zn, Ni, Cu, and Co) contamination in Crevalle Jack (Caranx Hippos) from Ogbogoro, Rumuokani, and Choba in Rivers State. Methods: The study used the Adaptive Risk Assessment Modeling System (ARAMS) to evaluate the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks associated with heavy metal contamination in C. hippos. Results: The results showed that the daily intake of all the studied heavy metals via C. hippos was within their respective health-based guidance values and may not pose any non-cancer health effects to human consumers. However, the results for the Hazard quotient (HQ) and the hazard index (HI) in the three locations were less than one (Hi>), which means there is a lack of potency to cause non-cancer effects in human consumers. However, the cumulative consumption of heavy metals via C. hippos has the probability of impacting the non-cancer effect in human consumers in locations 2 but may not cause a non-cancer effect in human consumers in locations 1 and 3. Conclusion: The research underscores the significance of enforcing regulations, conducting regular monitoring, and promoting safe food consumption practices to address heavy metal pollution in the studied regions and safeguard public health. The implementation of effective public policies aimed at reducing these risks among the Brazilian population would yield substantial benefits for public health.