13 research outputs found
Postpartum nurses' perceptions of barriers to screening for intimate partner violence: a cross-sectional survey
Article deposited according to agreement with BMC, December 6, 2010.YesFunding provided by the Open Access Authors Fund
The Devil We Know: The Implications of Bill C-38 for Assisted Human Reproduction in Canada
Heavy metals health risk assessment for population via consumption of food crops and fruits in Owerri, South Eastern, Nigeria
<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>This study assessed lead, cadmium, and nickel level in food crops, fruits and soil samples from Ohaji and Umuagwo and Owerri in South Eastern Nigeria and estimated the potential health risks of metals. Samples were washed, oven-dried at 70â80°C for 24 h and powdered. Samples were digested with perchloric acid and nitric acid. Metals were analysed with Unicam Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer.</p> <p>Result</p> <p>The concentration of Pb, Cd, and Ni in Ohaji exceeded the maximum allowable concentrations for agricultural soil as recommended by EU. Lead, Cd, and Ni in the food crops were highest in Oryza sativa, Glycine max, and Pentabacta microfila respectively. Highest levels of Pb, Cd, and Ni, in fruits were detected in <it>Canarium schweinfurthii</it>, <it>Citrus reticulata</it>, <it>Ananas comosus</it> respectively. The true lead and cadmium intake for the rice based meal were 3.53 and 0.034 g/kg respectively. Whereas the true intake of lead and cadmium for the cassava based meal were 19.42 and 0.049 g/kg respectively.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Local food stuff commonly available in South Eastern Nigeria villages may contribute to the body burden of heavy metal. This is of public health importance.</p