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Spatial analysis of the risk to human health from exposure to heavy metals in the Ponce Enríquez mining district, Ecuador

Abstract:

This article presents the results of a preliminary assessment of the health risk of the population of the Ponce Enríquez mining district, with the aim of providing evidence of the human exposure to carcinogenic and systemic contaminants related to mining activities. We have worked with the concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni and Zn in water and soil samples collected between 2009 and 2017. Finally, the adverse effects on health in adults and children have quantified for two exposure scenarios: recreationally and agricultural. The evaluation has provided unacceptable levels of carcinogenic and systemic risk for both receptors. The consumption of locally grown vegetables, the intake of water and the accidental ingestion of soil have been the main routes of exposure, with As, Hg, and Cr as the main contributors.