Health risk assessment of exposure to heavy metals in fish species consumed in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract The concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, As, Cr, Cu, Cd and Fe) were determined in the gills, liver muscles thirty-five fishes, water sediment samples from Aba River using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Heavy metal varied markedly among fish species organs. Results revealed that Pb, Fe had maximum concentration levels 0.63±0.01, 0.81±0.01 16.91 ± 0.20 mg/kg Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus respectively. As recorded highest 0.18±0.03 0.87±0.02 Malapterurus electricus respectively, while Trachurus trachurus 1.05±0.03 Cu. Orenchromis niloticus, Tilapia ziili higher Cr compared to gills muscles. these than rest studied. Cd, Pb freshwater standard permissible limit. sediments samples. exceeded guideline limit food substances for human consumption. electricus, Parachanna obscura bioaccumulation factors which ranged 1.069-1.663, indicating potential poisoning or contamination three species. estimated daily intake both adult children 8.611 x 10 −7 9.72 −3 mg/kgbw/day within population. hazard quotient populations 0.0041-1.3972 0.000287 - 0.2080 was less one most except iron, but index greater one, chronic health hazards. Incremental life cancer risk population safe limits.