HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATION AND HEALTH RISK IN COMMONLY CONSUMED FISH SPECIES (Coptodon guineensis) SOLD IN MARKET IN BENIN CITY, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

Contamination of heavy metals in fish species have been a growing cause for concern worldwide because they can bio accumulate in tissues and pose health risks to human that consume these fish species. In this study, heavy metals content were analyzed in a commonly consumed fish species; Coptodon guineensis sold in the market in Benin city, Edo State, Nigeria. The metals Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Cadmium (Cd) and Arsenic (As) concentration in fish was analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Perkin Elmer Model 800). The metals were in ranking order of Zn> Cu> Pb> Cd while As was not detected in the tissues of the fish species with Zn recording the highest mean concentration of 29.81 mg/kg. The mean values of Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd were below the permissible limit set by FAO/WHO, 2011. The highest Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) value was recorded for children compared to adult and were below the provisional tolerable intake based on standard limit. The target hazard quotient and hazard index of all metals was HI < 1 indicating that the consumption of these fish species is not hazardous to the population of Benin city. The target cancer risk for Cd and Pb was high indicating a potential carcinogenic risk associated with the consumption of this fish species especially for children. Thus, we recommend constant monitoring, public awareness and education, regulatory measures and further research into the commonly consumed fish species sold and available in the market, as the possible accumulation of these metals can eventually pose human risk to the populace.