Evaluation of the Toxicity Level of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Telfairia occidentalis Planted in Some Ekpeye Communities, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

The bioaccumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in food crops is viewed as one of the most dangerous threats confronting humanity due to their persistence in the environment and their resultant mutagenic, carcinogenic and teratogenic effect on the health of human beings. The concentrations of sixteen priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (16 PAHs) were determined in Telfairia occidentalis leaves, where samples were collected from Ahoada, Okporowo, IduEkpeye and Ubeta communities. The results of mutagenic equivalent (MEQ) of the study ranged between 5.01 x10-4 ppm (mg/kg) and 1.82 x 10-3mg/kg (ppm) while that of toxic equivalent (TEQ) ranged between 1.88 x 10-4 ppm (mg/kg) and 3.71 x 10-3mg/kg (ppm). The highest contributions to the MEQ and TEQ and their respective potentials (MP and CP) which is the capacity to cause modifications in human’s DNA thus forming PAH-DNA adduct thereby resulting in mutations and cancer were made in the wet season by IcdP contributing 64% MP and 60 % CP and those of dry season were made by DahA contributing 61% MP and 90% CP. These dominant PAH compounds ie IcdP, DahA, BghiP, BbF, BaP, etc with diagnostic ratios indicated artisanal refineries and other minor contributory sources. Due to the effect of soot toxicants, individuals are to limit exposure while Governments need to take strict measures to reduce the activities of artisanal refineries.