Heavy Metals Contamination in Fish: Effects on Human Health

Fish is a rich source of nutrients, however, its nutritional value may be affected by the environment in which it exists. The threat of toxic and trace metals in the environment is more serious than those of other pollutants due to their non-biodegradable nature. This is coupled with their bio-accumulative and biomagnification potentials. Within the aquatic habitat fish cannot escape from the detrimental effects of these pollutants. Heavy metal toxicity as a result of fish consumption can result in damage or reduced mental and central nervous system function, lower energy levels, and damage to blood composition, lungs, kidneys, bones, liver and other vital organs. Long term exposure may result in slowly progressing physical, muscular, and Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, and multiple sclerosis. Allergies are not uncommon and repeated long term contact with some metals or their compounds may even cause cancer. Heavy metal toxicity is a chemically significant condition when it does occur. If unrecognized or inappropriately treated, toxicity can result in significant illness and reduced quality of life which can ultimately result in death. Recommended strategies to combat this menace involves environmental legislation, holistic planning, technological measures to improve the quality of waste discharges and environmental monitoring programs.

Keywords: Heavy metals, fish, human health, contamination.