Review of the Hazard to Human Health Associated with Environmental Heavy Metal Contamination

Abstract

Heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic, pose a significant environmental concern due to their persistent nature and potential health repercussions. Exposure to these metals can accumulate in body tissues and reach hazardous concentrations. Heavy metal contamination, particularly in emerging countries, is exacerbated by industrial growth and petroleum fuel use in transportation. Vegetables, which contain heavy metals and trace minerals, can be contaminated, leading to weakened immune systems, psychosocial disabilities, and increased upper gastrointestinal cancer. Soil pollution from quarrying sites, sewage water, industrial effluent, and hazardous materials, including heavy metals, can significantly hinder organic pollutants' biodegradation. Concentrated farming methods, pesticides, and biosolids can increase heavy metal concentrations, while biosolids can infiltrate soil horizons and contaminate groundwater. These sources contribute to soil pollution. Heavy metals are found in natural sources like geological events, water movement, and human activities. Water contamination can result from leaching, settling in aquifers, or runoffs.