Heavy Metals Health Risk for Adults and Children Associated with farmland along Asa River Flood Plains, Ilorin, North Central Nigeria

The objective of this paper was to assess the heavy metal health risks for adults and children associated with farmland along Asa River floodplain using appropriate standard techniques. Findings revealed significant health risks for both adults and children, particularly through ingestion and dermal contact. For adults, the risk sequence for ingestion was Cr > As > Pb > Cu > Co > Ni > Zn, with chromium exhibiting the highest hazard quotient (2.981×10+10 ). In terms of dermal exposure, cobalt (5.6510+11) and chromium (3.691×10+11) posed the greatest risks. Among children, cobalt (1.22×10+13) presented the highest dermal risk, while chromium (2.781×10+11) posed a significant threat through ingestion. These findings accentuate the urgent need for regulatory measures to improve waste management, control industrial discharges into the river, and regulate agrochemical use to mitigate heavy metal contamination thus, Protecting the health of farmers, children, and the environment.