Dietary and ecological risk assessment of organochlorine pesticide residues in selected irrigated vegetables from Pankshin LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

Pesticide poisoning remains a significant global public health issue, accounting for nearly 300,000 deaths annually. This study evaluated the concentrations and associated risks of eighteen organochlorine pesticide (OCP) residues in environmental media and five irrigated vegetables collected from Pankshin LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria, using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). β-endosulfan was the only residue detected in water samples, whereas sixteen OCPs were identified in sediment. The majority of residues accumulated in the topsoil layer. Hazard quotient (HQ) values for soil exposure were generally below acceptable limits, except for γ-BHC via ingestion and dermal pathways. Children showed a higher likelihood of cancer risk through soil ingestion, while adults were more vulnerable via dermal contact and inhalation. Most pesticide residues in vegetables were below WHO maximum residue limits (MRLs), except for dieldrin, endrin aldehyde, and endrin ketone, with tomatoes showing the highest accumulation. Non-carcinogenic risk (HQ < 1) was observed for most residues; however, the hazard index (HI) for tomato exceeded unity, indicating potential health risks for both adults and children. Carcinogenic risk levels were above acceptable thresholds, particularly in children. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness and improved pesticide management practices among farmers and other stakeholders.