Evaluation of Heavy Metal Level in Sheep and Goat Exposed to Lead Toxicity in Bagega,Zamfara State Nigeria

摘要

Lead is a common environmental and occupational contaminant widely distributed around the world.In 2010,a high level of lead contamination was recorded in Bagega district of Zamfara state,Nigeria due to the wide spread local mining activities.This lead poisoning epidemic in northern Nigeria (Zamfara state)is the worst in modern history and has killed about 400 children and affected thousands.Humans are not alone in suffering from the effects of lead contaminated environment as animals are also affected to varying degrees due to their widespread husbandry in the area.The system of sheep and goat husbandry in this area equally expose the animals.Whilst there is growing concern over the potential detrimental impact of lead toxicity in environment,little is known about their interactions with other contaminants.In the present study,the epidemiology (prevalence)of blood lead level (BLL)and other associated heavy metals in small ruminants of the affected areas and environs were evaluated.This study showed varying levels of BLL and other associated heavy metals like,cadmium (Cd).chromium (Cr),manganese (Mn),Zinc (Zn)and selenium (Se).This data from animals are good indicators of environmental contamination and also a measure of food contamination from polluted livestock in the food chain.