Fluoride and nitrate enrichment in coastal aquifers of the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia: The influencing factors, toxicity, and human health risks

Abba, S.I.; Egbueri, Johnbosco C.; Benaafi, Mohammed; Usman, Jamilu; Usman, A. G.; Aljundi, Isam H.

doi:10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139083

Cited by 32 publications

(45 citation statements)

References 43 publications

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“…As has been reported by previous studies, various anthropogenic activities lead to high-level enrichment of natural waters with nitrate [12,14]. Nitrogen, a crucial nutrient for improving crop productivity and stimulating plant growth, may exist in groundwater in various forms, including nitrate, nitrite, or ammonium [15].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 73%

“…The undue buildup of fluoride presents a considerable hazard to the welfare of local communities and the enduring progress and advancement of national economies [13]. Consequently, fluoride contamination has become an environmental issue that warrants global attention [12,13]. Unfortunately, the present study area, particularly the Al Hassa region, faces a scarcity of research on the migration and enrichment patterns of fluorine in coastal groundwater aquifers.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 94%

“…Nitrate and fluoride are widely recognized as global contaminants in drinking water across various regions. Fluorine as a trace element is vital for human health, playing a beneficial role in metabolism and disease prevention [12]. Nevertheless, extended contact to higher levels can interfere with the enzymes responsible for vitamin metabolism, resulting in adverse effects on bones, as well as the degeneration of brain tissues, kidneys, and the central nervous system [14].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Nitrogen, a crucial nutrient for improving crop productivity and stimulating plant growth, may exist in groundwater in various forms, including nitrate, nitrite, or ammonium [15]. Nevertheless, the excessive application of nitrogen-rich fertilizers in agricultural practices can pose a significant risk of water pollution [12]. Multiple studies have provided evidence indicating that nitrate pollution in the water could originate both from the localized and diffuse sources [15].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Likewise, [17] conducted research revealing a positive link between the use of nitrogen-rich fertilizers in a specific area and elevated nitrate concentrations in groundwater. Recent studies have similarly established connections, expanding beyond fertilizer application to include various other humaninduced processes and activities [12]. Despite the fact that nitrogen is advantageous in agricultural productivity, the contamination of water systems by nitrate can result in the degradation and impairment of ecosystems, thereby potentially exerting adverse effects to the environment.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Toward Contamination in Coastal Regions for Groundwater Quality, Fluoride, Nitrate and Human Health Risk Assessments Within Multi-aquifer Al-Hassa, Saudi Arabia

Yassin,

Abba,

Shah

et al. 2024

Preprint

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Contamination in coastal regions attributed to fluoride and nitrate cannot be disregarded, given the substantial environmental and public health issues they present worldwide. Maintaining water quality is crucial for environmental well-being. This comprehensive study was performed to assess the spatial as well as indexical water quality, identify contamination sources, and evaluate associated health risks pertaining to nitrate and flouride in AlHassa region, KSA. The physiochemical results revealed a pervasive pollution of the overall groundwater. The dominant water type was Na-Cl, indicating saltwater intrusion and reverse ion exchange impact. Spatiotemporal variations in physicochemical properties suggest diverse hydrochemical mechanisms, with geogenic factors primarily influencing groundwater chemistry. The groundwater pollution index varied between 0.8426 and 4.7172, classifying samples as moderately to very highly polluted. Similarly, the synthetic pollution index (in the range of 0.5021-4.0715) revealed that none of the samples had excellent water quality, with various degrees of pollution categories. Nitrate Health Quotient (HQ) values indicated chronic human health risks ranging from low to severe, with newborns being the most vulnerable. Household use of nitrate-rich groundwater for showering and cleaning did not pose significant health risks. Fluoride HQ decreased with age, and children faced the highest risk of fluorosis. The Hazard Index (HI) yielded moderate to high-risk values. Nitrate risks were 1.21 times higher than fluoride risks, as per average HI assessment. All samples fell into the vulnerable category based on the Total Hazard Index (THI), with 88.89% classified as very high risk. This research provides valuable insights into groundwater quality, guiding water authorities, inhabitants, and researchers in identifying safe water sources and vulnerable human populations. The results highlight the need for appropriate treatment techniques and long-term coastal groundwater management plans.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 73%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 94%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

See 3 more Smart Citations

Toward Contamination in Coastal Regions for Groundwater Quality, Fluoride, Nitrate and Human Health Risk Assessments Within Multi-aquifer Al-Hassa, Saudi Arabia

Yassin,

Abba,

Shah

et al. 2024

Preprint

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

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Graphical, statistical and index-based techniques integrated for identifying the hydrochemical fingerprints and groundwater quality of In Salah, Algerian Sahara

Boualem,

Egbueri

2024

Environ Geochem Health

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Comprehensive approach integrating water quality index and toxic element analysis for environmental and health risk assessment enhanced by simulation techniques

Eid,

Awad,

Mohamed

et al. 2024

Environ Geochem Health

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Due to water shortages and the potential impact of Ethiopia’s new dam on the Nile River, Egypt is seeking new water resources. This study assesses the drinking water quality and associated risks from potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the Quaternary aquifer (QA) in Beni-Suef, Egypt. Using a comprehensive approach, including PHREEQC geochemical modeling, ionic ratios, multivariate statistical analyses, and the integrated weight water quality index (WQI), the study evaluated the sources of ion contamination and the mixing of Nile water with QA. Various indices, such as the Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI), ecological Risk Index (RI), Hazard Quotient (HQ), and Hazard Index (HI), were used to assess ecological and health risks. Monte Carlo simulations provided probabilistic assessments of non-carcinogenic risks for adults and children. GIS tools were used to map risk indices, identifying the most deteriorated locations for sustainable management. The hydrochemical analysis revealed water facies including Na–Cl, Ca–Mg–HCO3, and mixed types, influenced by carbonate dissolution, ion exchange, and silicate weathering. Contamination sources, particularly in the north and south, were linked to agricultural activities, irrigation return flow, municipal waste, and evaporation. The WQI indicated that 10.14% of samples were extremely poor, 21.7% were poor, 26% were medium, and 42% were good to excellent. PTE contamination varied, with HPI values indicating good water quality in the central area in 53.6% of the collected samples (HPI < 30), but contamination in the north and south is high (HPI > 51). Ecological Risk Index values were below the threshold in 100% of samples (RI < 30), confirming water safety regarding PTEs. In comparison, for hazard index (HI) through oral/ingestion, adults exhibited HI values ranging from 0.012 to 2.16, while children showed higher values, ranging from 0.045 to 8.25. However, the hazard index for oral/ingestion exceeded safe limits in the north and south (HI oral > 1), posing non-carcinogenic risks. Monte Carlo simulations revealed significant risks from oral exposure to manganese (HQ oral > 1), particularly in El-Wasta and El-Fashn, necessitating further treatment and management.

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Fluoride and nitrate enrichment in coastal aquifers of the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia: The influencing factors, toxicity, and human health risks

Cited by 32 publications

References 43 publications

Toward Contamination in Coastal Regions for Groundwater Quality, Fluoride, Nitrate and Human Health Risk Assessments Within Multi-aquifer Al-Hassa, Saudi Arabia

Toward Contamination in Coastal Regions for Groundwater Quality, Fluoride, Nitrate and Human Health Risk Assessments Within Multi-aquifer Al-Hassa, Saudi Arabia

Graphical, statistical and index-based techniques integrated for identifying the hydrochemical fingerprints and groundwater quality of In Salah, Algerian Sahara

Comprehensive approach integrating water quality index and toxic element analysis for environmental and health risk assessment enhanced by simulation techniques

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