This study examines the carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic health risks associated with arsenic exposure in Ethiopia, focusing on the Adami Tulu Jido Kombolcha district. The research employs a longitudinal design, sampling 45 groundwater sources during both the dry and rainy seasons to measure arsenic concentrations. The study calculates lifetime cancer risk and hazard quotients to assess the health risks. Key findings include:
- **Arsenic Concentrations**: The mean arsenic concentration in groundwater was 11.15 μg/L during the dry season and 10.67 μg/L during the rainy season.
- **Cancer Risk**: The total cancer risk from oral ingestion and skin contact was higher for children than for adults, with unacceptable risks in both seasons.
- **Noncarcinogenic Risk**: Hazard quotients (HQs) for oral ingestion were above 1 for both children and adults, indicating noncarcinogenic risks. Dermal contact did not pose a significant noncarcinogenic risk.
- **Conclusion**: The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to protect the population, especially children, from the adverse health effects of arsenic exposure.
The study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive research, effective practices, and informed policies to address the complex challenges posed by arsenic-related health issues.This study examines the carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic health risks associated with arsenic exposure in Ethiopia, focusing on the Adami Tulu Jido Kombolcha district. The research employs a longitudinal design, sampling 45 groundwater sources during both the dry and rainy seasons to measure arsenic concentrations. The study calculates lifetime cancer risk and hazard quotients to assess the health risks. Key findings include:
- **Arsenic Concentrations**: The mean arsenic concentration in groundwater was 11.15 μg/L during the dry season and 10.67 μg/L during the rainy season.
- **Cancer Risk**: The total cancer risk from oral ingestion and skin contact was higher for children than for adults, with unacceptable risks in both seasons.
- **Noncarcinogenic Risk**: Hazard quotients (HQs) for oral ingestion were above 1 for both children and adults, indicating noncarcinogenic risks. Dermal contact did not pose a significant noncarcinogenic risk.
- **Conclusion**: The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to protect the population, especially children, from the adverse health effects of arsenic exposure.
The study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive research, effective practices, and informed policies to address the complex challenges posed by arsenic-related health issues.