Evaluación de riesgos para la salud de la población por contaminación de agua con metales pesados (Cadmio, Níquel y Plomo) derivados de explotación minera ilegal, Cantón Esmeraldas

Abstract

The influence of unsustainable economic activities in Ecuador, such as illegal mining, the oil industry, etc., use heavy metals in several of their industrial processes, metals that when not adequately treated are deposited in water sources, compromising the survival and well-being of human beings. The Teaone River, located in the Esmeraldas Canton, receives a great variety of wastes that contain a range of chemical compounds that can cause water contamination.

For this reason, the objective of this research was to evaluate the health risks to the population due to water contamination with heavy metals (Cadmium, Nickel and Lead) in the Teaone River in Esmeraldas Canton, Esmeraldas province. Non-experimental quantitative-cross-sectional research was carried out and the type of sampling was non-probabilistic, intentional, presence and distribution of heavy metals in the sampling points.

Analytical methodology for the analysis of Cd, Ni and Pb in natural and surface waters by flame atomic absorption spectrometry was developed and implemented at the FCIAB - UTA debt exchange laboratory. In this study, the concentrations of three heavy metals were determined at five locations in the Teaone River. The results reflected progressive impairment and indicated contamination. The exposure dose was determined by ingestion, inhalation and dermal.

The highest average daily exposure dose was by inhalation, followed by ingestion and dermal. The health risk assessment revealed, serious non-cancer risks from ingestion of heavy metals in contaminated water (HQ Pb > HQ Cd > HQ Ni), where children are more affected than adults. This study has shown that the Teaone River is highly contaminated by heavy metals (Cd, Ni and Pb) and the population living along the river has a high probability of suffering health risks. For this reason, more rigorous control strategies are needed by the governing bodies (Ministry of the Environment, Decentralized Autonomous Government) to minimize the contamination of rivers contaminated with heavy metals.