Assessment of Heavy Metal Levels in Vegetables Grown on Abandoned Refuse Dumpsite Soil and Associated Health Risks in Mubi Metropolis, Adamawa State, Nigeria

Heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils and vegetables near dumpsites poses significant health and ecological risks. This study assessed the concentration levels of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), and cobalt (Co) in soil and vegetable samples collected from refuse dumpsites in (Yelwa Abattoir and Kolere) Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria, using Microwave Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MP-AES).The concentrations found in leaves for arsenic reached 13.02 ± 3.55 mg/kg, while lead was recorded at 1.54 ± 0.04 mg/kg. Bioconcentration Factor (BCF) values for arsenic in leaves were notably high at 4.24195, indicating significant uptake, while the Translocation Factor (TF) from roots to leaves for cadmium was 3.714939, suggesting efficient movement within the plant. Health risk indices revealed an Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) for adults of 1.26032E-08 mg/kg/day for arsenic, with a Hazard Quotient (HQ) of 4.20106E-05, indicating potential non-carcinogenic risks. The Hazard Index (HI) for multiple metals in leaves was 4.43956E-05, suggesting cumulative exposure risks for consumers. Results highlighted that arsenic levels in soil and vegetables exceeded FAO/WHO limits, indicating a potential carcinogenic risk. This study underscores the need for regular environmental monitoring, public awareness campaigns, and sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate the risks of heavy metal contamination. Keywords: Heavy Metals, Contamination, Vegetables, Soil, Health risks, and Bioaccumulation