# Human Health Risk Assessment from Mercury-Contaminated Soil and Water in Abu Hamad Mining Market, Sudan

## TL;DR

This study assesses mercury contamination and health risks in a Sudanese gold mining community, finding high mercury levels near mining sites and urging eco-friendly solutions.

## Contribution

The study provides localized mercury risk assessment in Abu Hamad ASGM community, highlighting specific exposure routes and vulnerable populations.

## Key findings

- Mercury concentrations near amalgam burning sites reached 34.8 mg/kg in soil and 3.26 µg/L in water.
- Hazard Index for children near burning sites was 33.4, indicating significant health risks.
- Water sample W03 posed ingestion risks to children with a Hazard Index of 1.74.

## Abstract

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) poses a significant global threat due to mercury emissions and resulting health hazards. This study focuses on assessing these risks in the Abu Hamad ASGM community in Sudan. Utilizing the Mercury Analyzer 3000 (NIC), analyses of twelve soil samples (including one tailings sample) and seven water samples revealed the highest concentrations near amalgam burning locations: 34.8 mg/kg in soil (S06) and 3.26 µg/L in water (W03). Concentrations decrease with distance, with soil near burning exceeding tailings (S05 = 19.0 mg/kg). Hazard quotients indicate mercury vapor inhalation as the primary exposure route from soil, with the Hazard Index reaching 5.34 for adults and 33.4 for children close to amalgam burning sites. Water samples generally pose little risk except for W03, where children face potential danger via ingestion (HI = 1.74). These findings emphasize the urgent need for adopting retorts and eco-friendly practices to reduce mercury emissions and protect ASGM communities.