The impact of chromium contamination in fish and rice on public health risks along the Opak River in Yogyakarta

Abstract

This research attempts to determine Cr(VI) concentration in water, sediment, fish and rice sampels from many sites along the river and to analyze the related health hazards. The study was conducted from March 2024 to November 2024 by taking samples from 40 fishponds and rice fields at varying distance from industrial area. Water, sediment, and fish samples were collected and analyzed to determine the concentration of Cr(VI) using Atomic Absioption Spectrophotometry (AAS) and specthrofotomery methods. A total of 360 samples from fishpond and 180 samples from rice fields were col;ected. In addition, rice and fish consumption patterns were surveyed among 200 respondents from the affected areas. Cr(VI) concentrations were detected in all affected locations, significantly higher than in control area. Cr(VI) accumulation in fish and rice increased significantly, with health  risk assessment indicating noncarcinogenic and carvinogenic risk exceeding safe limits. These findings highlight industrial wastewater severe contamination of aquatic environments, which poses significant health risk from dietary Cr(VI) exposures. This study provides important insights into the extent of Cr(VI) contamination in agricultural and aquaculture systems, links environmental pollution to public health risk, and underscores the importance of regulatory measures to protect food safety and public health.