Journal of Wetland Ecobiology
Abstract: (10 Views)
Rapid population growth and industrial expansion have led to the increasing influx of chemical pollutants, particularly heavy metals, into aquatic ecosystems. This study aimed to assess the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks of heavy metals in the groundwater of Bam, Iran, during 2022–2023. Groundwater samples were collected and prepared according to the Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater. Concentrations of heavy metals were measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectroscopy, and health risks from oral ingestion were evaluated using standard EPA equations.
The results indicated that the mean concentrations of all measured metals, except for Chromium and Arsenic, were within the standards set by the Iranian national guidelines. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) for all examined metals was less than unity (HQ < 1), suggesting no significant non-carcinogenic health risks for the local population. Regarding carcinogenic risk, the values for Arsenic and Chromium remained within the acceptable or tolerable range, while other elements posed negligible carcinogenic risks. Although the overall quality of groundwater in the region was assessed as acceptable, continuous monitoring and effective management of water sources are recommended to mitigate potential future ecological and health risks.
The results indicated that the mean concentrations of all measured metals, except for Chromium and Arsenic, were within the standards set by the Iranian national guidelines. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) for all examined metals was less than unity (HQ < 1), suggesting no significant non-carcinogenic health risks for the local population. Regarding carcinogenic risk, the values for Arsenic and Chromium remained within the acceptable or tolerable range, while other elements posed negligible carcinogenic risks. Although the overall quality of groundwater in the region was assessed as acceptable, continuous monitoring and effective management of water sources are recommended to mitigate potential future ecological and health risks.
Article number: 2
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