Detection of Heavy Metals, Their Distribution in Tilapia spp., and Health Risks Assessment

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Food Safety
• Toxicology

Background:

• Heavy metal (HM) contamination in edible fish poses significant public health concerns.
• Tilapia species are a common food source, making their HM content critical for risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess HM concentrations in farmed tilapia from Calapan City, Philippines.
• To evaluate potential health risks associated with tilapia consumption.

Main Methods:

• Analyzed 11 tilapia samples for HM concentrations using X-ray fluorescence (XRF).
• Examined HM levels in seven distinct fish parts: bone, fins, head, meat, skin, and viscera.
• Calculated Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Cancer Risk (CR) based on established limits.

Main Results:

• Mean concentrations of Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), Manganese (Mn), Mercury (Hg), and Zinc (Zn) exceeded Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization (FAO/WHO) limits in various fish parts.
• Cadmium levels in fins were sevenfold higher than the FAO/WHO limit.
• Calculated Cancer Risk (CR) for consuming fish parts exceeded USEPA limits, indicating potential carcinogenic risks, primarily linked to Cd.
• Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) values were below 1, suggesting no immediate non-carcinogenic risk.

Conclusions:

• Farmed tilapia in Calapan City present potential carcinogenic risks due to elevated HM levels, particularly Cd.
• Anthropogenic activities and natural weathering in agricultural areas are likely sources of HM contamination.
• Regular monitoring of HMs in fish, habitats, and water is crucial for risk management and guideline development.