Assessing the Risk of Carcinogenesis Caused by Exposure to Heavy Metals Through the Consumption of Drinking Water (A Case Study of Bandar Abbas Drinking Water)

Objective :

Among the pollutants in water sources, heavy metals are of great concern due to their non-biodegradability characteristics, their ability to accumulate in the food chain, and their adverse and chronic effects on human health. Therefore, this study aims to assess the health risk of exposure to heavy metals through drinking water in Bandar Abbas, Iran.

Methods:

 This descriptive-analytical study was performed on drinking water samples in Bandar Abbas, Iran in 2020. Forty-two samples were taken from the drinking water distribution networks, the point-of-use water treatment devices, and municipal water treatment centers. Heavy metal concentrations in the samples were measured using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method. The carcinogenic risk of heavy metals was assessed according to probabilistic risk assessment method and Monte Carlo simulation technique.

Results :

The mean concentrations of arsenic, nickel, lead, and cadmium in drinking water were 1.25, 0.0713, 1.28, and 0.0005 µg/L, respectively. The mean carcinogenic risks of the mentioned metals were 1.23×10-4, 8.89×10-5, 2.07×10-4, and 2.23×10-4, respectively.

Conclusion:

 The average concentrations of heavy metals in drinking water of Bandar Abbas city and their risks, except for arsenic, were lower than the standard level. Although the concentrations and risk levels showed no significant threat for the consumers, more studies are needed especially on the arsenic concentration.