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5 October 2023 Radiological Analysis of Cassava Samples From a Coal Mining Area in Enugu State Nigeria
Chijioke M Amakom, Chikwendu E Orji, Kelechukwu B Okeoma, Obi K Echendu
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Abstract

Cassava holds a vital position as a staple food in Nigeria, forming a significant portion of the daily diet for the population. Unfortunately, food intake can serve as a pathway for radiological contamination in humans and animals. In this study conducted in an old coal mining area in Enugu State, Nigeria, cassava samples from the area were analyzed using gamma ray spectroscopy. The results revealed significant mean activity concentrations of the radionuclides 40K, 226Ra, and 232Th in camp 1, camp 2, and Pottery areas. The activity concentration ranged from 193.68 to 300.92 Bq/kg for 40 K, 23.03 to 37.24 Bq/kg for 226Ra, and 135.33 to 158.43 Bq/kg for 232Th, respectively. Of concern is the total mean annual effective dose resulting from exposure to these 3 observed radionuclides that was calculated to be 2.03 mSv/yr. This value exceeds the recommended limit of 1 mSv/yr, indicating potential health risks associated with the radiological contamination from cassava consumption in this region. In summary, the study shows that cassava samples from the investigated area exhibited elevated levels of radiotoxicity, raising concerns about the safety of consuming cassava from this region as a food source.

Chijioke M Amakom, Chikwendu E Orji, Kelechukwu B Okeoma, and Obi K Echendu "Radiological Analysis of Cassava Samples From a Coal Mining Area in Enugu State Nigeria," Environmental Health Insights 17(1), (5 October 2023). https://doi.org/10.1177/11786302231199836
Received: 23 July 2023; Accepted: 22 August 2023; Published: 5 October 2023
KEYWORDS
activity concentration
annual effective dose
cassava
coal mining area
Enugu
radionuclides
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