Cadmium and lead in seafood from the Aratu Bay, Brazil and the human health risk assessment

摘要

This study aimed to evaluate cadmium Cd) and lead Pb) levels in seafood and perform a risk assessment based on individual food consumption frequency of inhabitants of the Aratu Bay, Brazil. From December 2013 to November 2014, ready-to-market seafood, including fish [pititinga Lile piquitinga) and small green eel Gobionellus oceanicus)], mollusks [mussel Mytella guyanensis) and oyster Crassostrea rhizophorae)], and crustaceans [white shrimp Litopenaeus schmitti) and blue crab Callinectes exasperatus)], were purchased bimonthly from a local artisanal shellfish harvester. Metal levels were analyzed by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry GFAAS). Based on the volunteer' seafood consumption, estimates of the non-carcinogenic target hazard quotients THQs) were calculated. The annual concentrations mu g/g, w/w) of Cd were 0.007 (+/- 0.001) in crustaceans, 0.001 (+/- 0.0003) in fish, and 0.446 (+/- 0.034) in mollusks. Lead levels were = 1 and <9.9. These data are important to inform the community of the imminent exposure risk through communication strategies, with the purpose of minimizing exposure and, consequently, the health effects associated with it.