Concentration and Human Health Risk Assessment of Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane in Two Species of Fish Muscle from River Gongola Basin and its Dam, Dadinkowa, Gombe State, Nigeria

Abstract

The concentration of DDT and its metabolites in the two fish species (Clarias gariepinus and Bagrus docmak) from River Gongola basin and its dam, Dadinkowa in Gombe State Nigeria was determined and human health risk association from the consumption of contaminated fish was evaluated. Fish samples were collected for period of six months and the pesticide residues analysis was carried out by using QuEChERS method along with conventional method (Hand shaken technique) and gas chromatography with electron capture detector (GC-ECD). (DDTs) and its metabolites were observed with DDD were the predominant contaminants, followed by DDT. The predominance of DDE may be attributed to their current use in vector control and contamination from past usage. The estimated daily intakes (EDIs) of DDT and its metabolites from all fish species were much lower than the acceptable daily intakes (ADIs), indicating that consumption of fish is at little risk to human health at present. However, the cancer risk estimates in the area of concern and the hazard ratios (HRs) of DDTs below the threshold value of one, indicating daily exposure to these compounds is a potential concern.