Lead Pollution Level and Human Health Risks Assessment in Topsoil Under Different Land-use in the Korhogo City (Northern Côte d’Ivoire)

Rapid urban growth and industrial activities have intensified the presence of toxic elements in urban soils, with lead (Pb) being of particular concern. This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of Pb contamination and associated human health risks in the urban soils of Korhogo, northern Côte d’Ivoire. Twenty surface soil samples (0–5 cm) were collected from four land use categories including residential, public gardens, commercial areas, and peri urban zones and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP AES). Pollution levels were evaluated through geochemical indices (contamination factor, CF, and geoaccumulation index, Igeo), while probabilistic risk models quantified potential health impacts. Results show that Pb concentrations follow the order: commercial > public garden > residential > peri urban, with values exceeding WHO/FAO permissible limits. Commercial soils exhibited moderate contamination, whereas other sites showed low levels. Oral ingestion and dermal absorption were identified as the main exposure pathways. Risk assessment indicated no non carcinogenic effects for adults or children, while carcinogenic risks remained within the acceptable range, though more pronounced in children. These findings establish a baseline for sustainable monitoring and management of Pb contamination in urban soils of Korhogo.