Assessment of heavy metals contamination and human health risk in Clarias gariepinus [Burchell, 1822] collected from Jabi Lake, Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Discharge of pollutants in the ecosystem is a great concern for freshwater bodies because of the health risk that can befall those who depend on fisheries products for survival. Five metals (Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Cd) in forty (40) frequently consumed fish (Clarias gariepinus) collected from Jabi Lake, Abuja, Nigeria were measured using Atomic Absorption spectrometry (AAS). Non carcinogenic (hazard quotient HQ and hazard index HI) and carcinogenic (cancer risk CR) effects of these metals on human were evaluated. Results showed that Cu < Cd < Cr < Fe < Pb, with Pb higher than permissible levels. The estimated daily ingestion was 0.158, 0.067, 0.620, 1.3 and 0.09 mg/day for Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb and Cd, respectively. The HI revealed no adverse health risk with HI < 1 suggesting non carcinogenic effect and non significant to adults and children. However, the carcinogenic risk (CR) was elevated (above 10−1) than acceptable values implying that adults and children that consumed C. gariepinus may be affected. In view of the public health risks associated with the metals listed throughout this study, it is necessary for the government to give special attention to Jabi Lake in order to monitor and prevent the discharge of carcinogenic metals in this Lake. Keywords: Clarias gariepinus, Bioaccumulation, Carcinogenic, Health risk