Authors:Kenechi A. Aliche; Francis U. Umeoguaju, Catherine Ikewuchi, Faith C. Diorgu, Opeyemi Ajao, Chiara Frazzoli, Orish E. Orisakwe Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, January-December 2025. Paternal lead exposure has emerged as a potential contributor to adverse pregnancy outcomes, yet its impact remains underexplored compared to maternal exposure. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesize evidence on the association between ... Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-04-17T09:45:15Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302251327535 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Shaher Zyoud; Sa’ed H. Zyoud Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, January-December 2025. Acrylamide is a contaminant prevalent in many commonly consumed foods, contributing to unavoidable human exposure. It is recognized as likely to be carcinogenic to humans as well, provoking global concerns. Numerous studies have investigated the impacts ... Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-04-17T09:37:31Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302251327290 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Niteesh Pokharel; Prajina Neupane, Ayushma Karki, Reshma Thapa, Surendra K. Pradhan Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, January-December 2025. Ponds in Kathmandu Valley reflect its rich history with water resources, but increasing pollution threatens public health and the environment. This study aimed to assess the physicochemical and microbial quality of pond water and further analyze the ... Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-04-15T05:58:46Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302251327938 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Kongsavath Xaybouaphanh; Tran Thi Tuyet Hanh, Pham Duc Phuc Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, January-December 2025. Background:Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are among the most common parasitic infections worldwide but remain underappreciated in certain regions, including Laos PDR. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a 1-year health education ... Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-03-12T10:00:27Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302251323057 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Abraham Teym; Eniyew Tegegne, Getasew Yirdaw, Lake Kumlachew, Temesgen Ayenew, Mahmud Ahmednur, Tirsit Ketsela Zeleke, Alehegn Aderaw Alamneh Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, January-December 2025. Background:An edible oil factory is a labor-intensive and technologically complex industry, with workers potentially exposed to a variety of dangers associated with such industries. Personal protective equipment is a universal, legal requirement, and an ... Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-03-12T05:48:26Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302251321230 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Charity Owusu, Albert Ofori, Frank Adusei-Mensah, Carl Halladay Abraham, Samuel Kyei, Reginald Quansah, David Kofi Essumang; Albert Ofori, Frank Adusei-Mensah, Carl Halladay Abraham, Samuel Kyei, Reginald Quansah, David Kofi Essumang Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. Biomass smoke exposure represents a critical health concern, especially for those in occupational settings such as fish smoking. While substantial research has addressed indoor air pollution from domestic cooking, the specific risks faced by fish smokers have received insufficient attention. This study sheds light on the alarming relationship between smoke exposure and health issues among commercial fish smokers in Abuesi, Ghana. Through a comprehensive cross-sectional analysis involving 302 participants, we utilized structured questionnaires and expert eye assessments to gather vital data. Our statistical evaluation, including descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and chi-square tests, revealed a troubling prevalence of respiratory symptoms such as cough, asthma, and breathlessness, all significantly linked to prolonged smoke exposure. Eye health findings were equally concerning, with distant vision impairment affecting 26.37%, eye discomfort reported at 53.02%, and notable rates of cataracts (28.6%) and refractive errors (17.9%). For those suffering from breathlessness, asthma, and pneumonia, the data indicated that longer exposure durations correlated with more severe health outcomes. Specifically, subjects without breathlessness had an average smoking duration of 14.84 years (SD = 12.29) compared to just 10.26 years (SD = 11.15) for those with the symptom—a statistically significant P-value of .014. Asthma and pneumonia exhibited similar trends, highlighting a distressing reality: shorter smoking histories align with more severe health conditions, suggesting that such symptoms might drive smokers to abandon their practices prematurely. Given the serious health risks tied to traditional fish smoking practices, this study strongly advocates for the implementation of improved smoking technologies, better ventilation systems, and comprehensive health education initiatives. These measures are essential to safeguard the health of those involved in this vital industry and reduce exposure to hazardous smoke. Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-30T09:08:05Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302251317056 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Mustafe Abdillahi Ali, Abdirizak Hassan Abokor, Omer Adam Farih, Hodo Abdikarim, Abdirashid M Yousuf, Abdisalam Hassan Muse; Abdirizak Hassan Abokor, Omer Adam Farih, Hodo Abdikarim, Abdirashid M Yousuf, Abdisalam Hassan Muse Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. This study, utilizing data from the 2020 Somaliland Demographic and Health Survey, investigates the prevalence of household solid fuel use in Somaliland and the factors associated with this practice. Our analysis reveals that a staggering 97.2% of households rely on solid fuels like wood and charcoal for cooking, with only 2.8% utilizing clean energy sources. We employed multilevel logistic regression to examine the influence of individual and community-level variables on fuel choice. Results highlight the significant roles of education level, gender of the household head, wealth status, and location of cooking in shaping fuel selection. The study, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, emphasizes the urgency of promoting clean energy alternatives, improving cooking practices, and addressing the health and environmental impacts of solid fuel usage to foster a more sustainable energy landscape in Somaliland. Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-30T01:08:54Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302251315893 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Wisdom K Ahiabor, Eric S Donkor; Eric S DonkorDepartment of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Korle Bu, Accra, Ghana Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. Introduction:Access to safe drinking water is crucial for health and survival, yet many developing countries face significant challenges in this regard. In West Africa, rapid urbanisation has outpaced efforts to improve access to potable water, compelling households to rely on private vendors for solutions, particularly through the growing market for sachet water. Widely consumed in Ghana, sachet water has become a convenient and affordable option, with over 37% of the population depending on it. However, concerns about its microbial safety persist, as studies indicate that sachet water often fails to meet necessary safety standards. This review consolidated existing research on microbial contaminants in sachet water, aiming to provide a representative overview of the microbial quality of sachet water in Ghana.Method:The systematic review followed the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. A thorough literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Scopus and the search engine Google Scholar, using relevant search terms. Eligible studies were identified based on established criteria, and data were subsequently extracted and analysed.Results:A total of 28 studies published from 2003 to 2024 were selected for inclusion in this review. Notably, 96% of these studies reported bacteria from 17 different genera, while 11% examined parasites from 5 genera. Some studies (7%) investigated both types of contaminants. Overall, 2,276 sachet water samples were analysed, with 1,727 (76%) showing microbial contamination. Escherichia coli was the most identified bacteria, while Cyclospora cayetanensis and Cryptosporidium parvum were the most identified parasites.Conclusion:This study highlighted critical public health risks associated with sachet water in Ghana, particularly the presence of harmful bacteria and parasites. It is important to implement stricter manufacturing and sanitation standards and encourage safe handling practices to ensure the safety and quality of sachet water. Additionally, future research should focus on bridging existing gaps by investigating parasitic, viral, and fungal contaminants, to provide a holistic overview of the microbial contaminants in sachet water in Ghana. Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-28T11:30:56Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302241307830 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Mulugeta Getachew, Andualem Mekonnen, Desta Fitsum; Andualem Mekonnen, Desta Fitsum Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. Exposure to ambient air particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution presents a significant public health and economic challenge in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This thesis used the Environmental benefits mapping and analysis program-community edition (BenMAP-CE) software tool to estimate health and economic impact of ambient air PM2.5 pollution. The study evaluated the impact of decreasing the annual average PM2.5 concentration in 2019 (32.8 µg/m3) to different international and national air quality standards, including World health Organization’s guidelines and the Ethiopian National Ambient Air Quality standard (NAAQS). Results showed that Addis Ababa exceeded both WHO’s and Ethiopia’s ambient air quality standards in 2019. The study estimated the attributable deaths from cardiovascular, ischemic heart disease (IHD), stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lower respiratory infection (LRI) due to PM2.5 exposure across 3 reduction scenarios. Additionally, economic benefits associated with avoided deaths were quantified using the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Value of Statistical Life (VSL) methodology. The finding demonstrated that reducing PM2.5 pollution levels led to a notable decrease in mortality rates from various health conditions in Addis Ababa. Moreover substantial economic benefits, amounting to millions of dollars, were observed across all health endpoints, indicating significant societal savings. This study underscores the importance of implementing interventions to mitigate PM2.5 pollution for improved public health and economic well-being in Addis Ababa and similar urban settings. Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-18T09:08:58Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302241312061 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Chalachew Yenew, Muluken Azage Yenesew, Argaw Ambelu, Gashaw Melkie Bayeh, Almaw Genet Yeshiwas; Muluken Azage Yenesew, Argaw Ambelu, Gashaw Melkie Bayeh, Almaw Genet Yeshiwas Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. Background:Wastewater treatment is crucial to protecting public health and the environment by removing Biohazards. In Ethiopia, however, significant research gaps limit progress, especially regarding the efficiency of Biohazard removal in existing treatment facilities. This review evaluates the effectiveness of current treatment methods for Biohazard removal, highlights key challenges, and offers recommendations.Methods:This scoping review followed PRISMA guidelines, systematically searching databases like NLM. Science Direct, HINARI and Scopus for Biohazard removal studies in Ethiopia, with independent reviewers screening and analyzing relevant data to identify key challenges.Results:Out of 1218 studies initially recorded by title and abstract, only 11 articles were selected for analysis. The Activated Sludge Process emerged as a highly effective system, achieving 85% to 95% removal of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and total coliforms. Other methods, such as the Conventional Activated Sludge, and Anaerobic-Aerobic Reactors, demonstrated promising results but were found only in select locations. However, the widely adopted Oxidation Ponds, Ethiopia’s most common wastewater treatment system, showed the lowest AMR removal efficiency, at just 30% to 50%. Significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, high operational costs, and weak regulatory enforcement.Conclusions and recommendations:The review underscores the need for affordable wastewater treatment in Ethiopia, highlighting challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and high costs. To enhance effectiveness and reduce public health risks from Biohazards like AMR, recommendations include adopting cost-effective treatment technologies, strengthening regulatory frameworks, increasing public awareness, promoting corporate responsibility, and investing in infrastructure for sustainable wastewater management.Plain language summary:This scoping review highlights the Activated Sludge Process and Anaerobic-Aerobic Reactors as effective methods, achieving 85% to 95% AMR removal. In contrast, Oxidation Ponds, commonly used in Ethiopia, show only 30% to 50% efficiency. Addressing challenges like inadequate infrastructure and costs is crucial, necessitating low-cost technologies for sustainable wastewater management. Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-09T09:30:07Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302241312770 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Zi Cao, Jie Wei, Hang Fan, Jun Liu; Jie Wei, Hang Fan, Jun Liu Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. Due to the remoteness of rural areas, the impact of environmental pollution on residents’ health has not received adequate attention. This study examined the relationship between coal consumption and residents’ health status in rural areas in China between 2005 and 2021. We explored the impact of air pollution caused by coal combustion on the health of rural residents in China and provided associated countermeasures. The annual number of medical visits of rural residents was evaluated via multiple regression, and the Pearson correlation and Granger causality tests were used to evaluate the relationships between coal consumption and the changes in mortality rates of various diseases in rural areas. The results revealed that coal consumption for domestic use had a significant (P Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-08T09:48:14Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302241312279 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Bereket Ayenew, Endalkachew Getu; Endalkachew Getu Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. Background:The decline in wheat output in Ethiopia is widely attributed to pests, which has led to a rise in the usage of pesticides to boost productivity. The degree of pesticides sorption and degradation which influence the likelihood of environmental contamination from pesticides seeping into water bodies from soil has not yet been published for Ethiopian soils. The study aimed at to quantify the levels of pesticide residues, assess glyphosate’s adsorption capabilities and degradation rate in the soils.Materials and methods:QuEChERS method of extraction was employed to determine the concentration of the respective pesticides. The adsorption capacities of glyphosate in agricultural soils of Cheha and Dinsho districts were measured using batch adsorption techniques.Results:Six pesticide residues were found in 12 soil samples at varied quantities. Glyphosate (24.00-219.31 µg kg−1), s-metolachlor (23.67-220.67 µg kg−1), chlorpyrifos (27.74 202.67 µg kg−1), pyroxulam (14.67-50.65 µg kg−1), florasulam (78.00-250.67 µg kg−1), malathion (15.00-49.67 µg kg−1). The experimental results showed that glyphosate was slightly sorbed at SD10 soil (18.91 μg−1−n mLn g−1) in comparison to SC1 soil (114.66 μg−1−n mLn g−1). Organic matter and clay content proving to be the principal factors influencing the process. According to adsorption experimental data, chemisorption is the major process in glyphosate adsorption, with the pseudo-second order kinetic model providing the best fit (R2 = .99). The soils in the study area exhibit notable variations in glyphosate rate of degradation (0.0076-0.0221 week−1). The findings show that the main soil variables affecting the half-life (glyphosate degradation) were clay concentrations (R2 = .48; P = .013), pH (R2 = .55; P = .0055), Organic matter (R2 = .74; P = .00027), Feox (R2 = .50; P = .0105), and Alox (R2 = .73; P = .00046).Conclusion:The weak glyphosate adsorption capabilities of soils can be a good indicator that the pesticide residues in the soil are poised to endanger soil organisms and contaminate nearby water bodies through runoff and leaching. Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-04T06:53:42Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302241311679 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Prosper Manu Abdulai, Chika Ossai, Anthoneth Ndidi Ezejiofor, Chiara Frazzoli, Joaquim Rovira, Osazuwa Clinton Ekhator, Caleb Kesse Firempong, Orish Ebere Orisakwe; Chika Ossai, Anthoneth Ndidi Ezejiofor, Chiara Frazzoli, Joaquim Rovira, Osazuwa Clinton Ekhator, Caleb Kesse Firempong, Orish Ebere Orisakwe Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. This study evaluated the concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and the carcinogenic risks of cattle and goat meats singed with either firewood, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) or tyres from five cities in Ghana. The meat samples, before and after singeing, as well as after scraping and washing, were collected from abattoirs and sent to Clinical Analysis Laboratory (Can-Lab) of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) for PAH analysis. Tyre-singed meats exhibit significantly higher PAHs concentrations (P = .01304) compared to those singed with firewood and LPG. Benzo[a]pyrene was the predominant PAH in tyre-singed cattle and goat meats, with concentrations of 23.1 mg/kg and 12.16 mg/kg, respectively. Washing singed meats reduced PAH levels, yet tyre-singed samples retained higher and dangerous concentrations than those singed with other fuels. Statistical analysis using ANOVA confirmed a significant effect of fuel type on PAH16 concentrations (P = .01304). The Tukey HSD test indicated a significant difference between LPG and tyre (P = .0105). Estimated daily intake (EDI) calculations highlighted potential health risks, particularly from tyre-singed meats, which exceeded regulatory limits set by health authorities. The findings emphasize the health hazards associated with consuming meats singed with tyres in Ghana and underscore the need for stringent regulatory measures and public awareness to mitigate PAH exposure.Plain language summary:This paper highlights the health risk concern associated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in meat. Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-04T06:49:04Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302241310842 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Nousheen Akber Pradhan, Muzna Hashmi, Laraib Mazhar, Muhammad Uzair, Laeba Hussain, Maleeha Naseem, Shagufta Iqbal, Tazeen Saeed Ali, Rozina Karmaliani, Fauzia Basaria Hasnani; Muzna Hashmi, Laraib Mazhar, Muhammad Uzair, Laeba Hussain, Maleeha Naseem, Shagufta Iqbal, Tazeen Saeed Ali, Rozina Karmaliani, Fauzia Basaria Hasnani Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. Background:School-based interventions are crucial for promoting healthy behaviors in children and preventing the spread of diseases. This study aimed to enhance hygiene knowledge and practices (K&P) among school children through a school-based intervention.Objective:To improve personal and environmental hygiene K&P amongst primary and middle-grade students in urban squatter settlement schools in Karachi, Pakistan using school-based intervention.Design:Quasi-experimental study conducted in three schools over 2 years.Setting:Urban squatter settlement schools in Karachi, Pakistan, serving primary, and middle-grade students.Participants:A total of 156 students participated in the study, with a majority of 55.77% being girls (n = 87). Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted to evaluate the impact of the intervention.Intervention:Behavioral Change Communication (BCC) strategies aimed at improving school children’s hygiene K&P.Primary Outcome Measures:The primary outcome measures included changes in hygiene K&P pre- and post-intervention, specifically focusing on personal hygiene and environmental hygiene.Results:Significant improvements observed post-intervention. Mean knowledge score differences were 20.33 (SD = 5.85) for personal hygiene and 10.08 (SD = 7.72) for environmental hygiene. Practice scores also increased, with mean differences of 2.52 (SD = 1.98) and 2.47 (SD = 2.08) for personal and environmental hygiene, respectively. Statistically significant improvements (P Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-04T06:42:02Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302241306288 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Jeff Clyde G Corpuz; Religious Education, College of Liberal Arts, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. I read with great interest the recent study by Omohwovo on wastewater management challenges in Africa, which has strong parallels with the Philippines’ own struggles in this area. Like Africa, our country is experiencing rapid population growth and urbanization without the necessary infrastructure to support effective wastewater treatment. The Philippines is also facing poor wastewater management that has led to severe heath concerns for humans, animals, and ecosystem. Since wastewater treatment and disposal facilities are rare, domestic wastewater is discharged without treatment. This has resulted in serious public health risks and environmental damage—problems that mirror those highlighted in Africa and emphasize the urgency of meeting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) for clean water and sanitation. This paper aims to provide guidelines for the Philippine government to consider localized solutions and policy integration to solve the issue of wastewater management in the Philippines.Plain language summary:I read with great interest the recent study by Omohwovo on wastewater management challenges in Africa, which has strong parallels with the Philippines’ own struggles in this area. Like Africa, our country is experiencing rapid population growth and urbanization without the necessary infrastructure to support effective wastewater treatment. This has resulted in serious public health risks and environmental damage—problems that mirror those highlighted in Africa and emphasize the urgency of meeting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) for clean water and sanitation. Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-03T05:19:14Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302241311529 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Abdullahi Tunde Aborode, Ridwan Olamilekan Adesola, Ibrahim Idris, Waheed Sakariyau Adio, Segun Olapade, Gladys Oluwafisayo, Isreal Ayobami Onifade, Sodiq Fakorede, Taiwo Bakare-Abidola, Jelil Olaoye, Adedeji Daniel Ogunyemi, Oluwaseun Adeolu Ogundijo, Olamilekan Gabriel Banwo, Adetolase Azizat Bakre, Peter Oladoye, Grace Adegoye, Noimat Abeni Jinadu; Ridwan Olamilekan Adesola, Ibrahim Idris, Waheed Sakariyau Adio, Segun Olapade, Gladys Oluwafisayo, Isreal Ayobami Onifade, Sodiq Fakorede, Taiwo Bakare-Abidola, Jelil Olaoye, Adedeji Daniel Ogunyemi, Oluwaseun Adeolu Ogundijo, Olamilekan Gabriel Banwo, Adetolase Azizat Bakre, Peter Oladoye, Grace Adegoye, Noimat Abeni Jinadu Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that are widely present in many industries. Monitoring and analyzing PFAS in Africa is challenging due to the limited availability of mass spectrometry (MS), which is an essential technique for detecting PFAS. This review assesses the scope and impact of the shortage of mass spectrometry instruments in Africa, emphasizing the resulting limitations in monitoring environmental and public health threats. The review analyzes the existing PFAS monitoring, the accessibility of MS instruments, and the technical capabilities within the continent. This study suggests that fewer African countries have sufficient MS instruments, resulting in significant underreport of environmental data and related public health issues. The review proposes financial support and programs to address these difficulties to provide necessary MS instruments. The review suggests that it is highly important to develop regional centers of excellence for PFAS monitoring using MS instruments and investing in training programs to address the gap in monitoring efforts. So, enhancing these are crucial for the successful management of the environment and safeguarding public health from the effects of PFAS contamination. Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-02T11:17:14Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302241310430 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
Authors:Belay Negassa, Dessalegn Dadi, Negasa Eshete Soboksa, Samuel Fekadu; Dessalegn Dadi, Negasa Eshete Soboksa, Samuel Fekadu Abstract: Environmental Health Insights, Volume 19, Issue , January-December 2025. Background:Vegetables play critical role in human nutrition and overall health. However, consumption of vegetables cultivated through wastewater-impacted river can be source of potentially toxic heavy metals, which can cause detrimental health effects when their concentration exceeds the recommended maximum levels. Despite growing body of evidence highlighting the dangers associated with heavy metal accumulation in vegetables, there remains critical gap in systematic assessments within Ethiopian context. Therefore, objective of this review is to reveal heavy metals concentrations in vegetables grown with wastewater-impacted river and assess associated public health risks.Methodology:Research articles published in English were identified through systematic searching using electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, WHO/FAO library, and searching from Google manually. The outcomes of interest were mean concentration of heavy metals in vegetables and associated health risks. Cross-sectional studies that met inclusion criteria were considered. Data were extracted by independent reviewers. Methodological quality of included studies was assessed using critical appraisal tools. Moreover, health risks of consumers were assessed through evaluating estimated daily intakes (EDI), Health Risk Index (HRI), and Hazard Index (HI).Results:Nineteen articles were included in this systematic review. The findings revealed that the mean concentration of Pb, Cr, Cd, As, Hg, Cu, Ni, Zn, Mn, and Fe in tested vegetables ranged from: 0.28-7.68, 0.75-33.01, 0.14-3.93, 0.05-3.13, ND-4.25, 0.92-15.33, 2.13-13.1, 18.27-62.83, 8.83-331.8, and 177.8-1034.3 mg/kg (dry weight), respectively. The EDI of Pb, Cr, Cd, As, Hg, Cu, Ni, Zn, Mn, and Fe in vegetables was range from: 0.00104-0.0286, 0.00279-0.123, 0.00052-0.0146, 0.0000372-0.0116, 0.0124-0.0158, 0.00342-0.0439, 0.0079-0.0487, 0.068-0.23, 0.03-1.23, and 0.53-3.84 mg/kg/day, respectively. The HRI of toxic heavy metals for all vegetable types ranged as; Pb (0.26-7.15), Cr (0.00186-0.0820), Cd (0.52-14.6), As (0.12-38.7), and Hg (1.24-1.58). The HRI due to consumption of all vegetables was 35, 0.168, 46.6, 70, and 2.82 for Pb, Cr, Cd, As, and Hg, respectively indicating severe health impact except for Cr.Conclusion:This review underscores health implications linked to consumption of vegetables cultivated using wastewater in Ethiopia. It revealed that the concentration of toxic heavy metals in vegetables grown with wastewater-affected water was higher than the maximum allowable safe limit set for edible vegetables by WHO that would be a public health risk. Citation: Environmental Health Insights PubDate: 2025-01-02T09:46:46Z DOI: 10.1177/11786302241310661 Issue No:Vol. 19 (2025)
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