Distribution and Health Risk Assessment of Trace Metals in Surface Waters and Groundwater Around Artisanal Gold Mining Areas in Central-western Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate Ni, Cr, Zn, Cd, Hg, and Pb distribution and the health risks in surface waters and groundwater around artisanal mining areas in the central-western Côte d'Ivoire. Trace metals spatial distributions were assessed using ArGIS method. Waters pollution status were ascertained through water pollution indices. Human health risk was investigated using non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks indices. In surface waters, the same distribution trends were observed for Ni and Cd, and, for Hg and Pb. While, the distribution patterns of Zn and Cr differed from those of Ni, Cd, Hg, and Pb. Trace metals (Ni, Cr, Cd, Zn, Hg and Pb) concentrations in groundwater were within their guidelines values. While, the averages total of Ni, Cd, Hg, and Pb concentrations for the surface waters exceeded their guidelines values. The pollution status revealed high and low pollution levels of surface waters and groundwater, respectively. Averages of the total non carcinogenic risk for Hg, Cd, Ni and Pb in surface waters varied between 1.529±1.162 and 80.507±104.615, indicating adverse effects to human health. The averages total carcinogenic risks for Ni, Cd, Pb, and Cr indicated that the population around the artisanal gold mining area could develop cancer. Therefore, it is important to treat waters for removing trace metals before using for domestic purposes.