Hg Intake by Pregnant Women Living Near Gold Mining
Keywords:
Gold Mining, Mercury (Hg), Pregnant Women, VegetablesAbstract
Living near gold mining areas poses a risk of mercury (Hg) exposure. Exposure to Hg in pregnant women is related to consumption patterns. Pregnant women residing near gold mining sites tend to consume vegetables grown around their homes. Commonly consumed vegetables include papaya leaves, cassava leaves, and katok leaves, all of which have Hg levels exceeding the threshold limit (0.03 g/kg). The Hg intake from these vegetables contributes to the Hg levels in the bodies of pregnant women. The aim of this study is to understand the Hg intake by pregnant women from consuming vegetables in the vicinity of gold mining. A longitudinal observational study was conducted to measure the Hg intake from vegetables by pregnant women living near gold mining areas, using semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) during interviews to determine the consumption patterns and habits of pregnant women during pregnancy and postpartum. This was done to estimate the daily Hg levels ingested, which were then compared with the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) guideline stating that the daily allowable intake (ADI) of Hg for pregnant and breastfeeding women is 0.1 μg/kg/day. The results show that the average Hg intake from vegetables collected around the home during pregnancy is 2.57 µg/kg/day, postpartum when the baby is 2-14 weeks old is 5.13 µg/kg/day, and when the baby is 14-26 weeks old is 4.47 µg/kg/day. Therefore, the Hg intake by pregnant women is above the ADI, and if not addressed promptly, it could lead to accumulation in the body and transfer to the baby through the placenta
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