A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Status of Heavy Metals in Bodies of Water in the Philippines: Policy Brief Development for Local Government Units
Gian Karlo Sam | Venchie C. Badong
Discipline: Education
Abstract:
Heavy metals can come from both natural and anthropogenic sources. These substances are non-biodegradable and
bioaccumulative. With this, their presence in the environment poses both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health
risks to surrounding communities, as these substances can enter the body through the oral or dermal routes of exposure.
This study determined whether the hazard quotients calculated from actual lead and cadmium concentrations exceed
those calculated from DENR standards. Following this, a policy brief was drafted based on the findings of the study.
This study was conducted through a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies from various research
databases. The conducted meta-analysis indicates overall effect sizes of 9.29 for cadmium and 3.20 for lead,
suggesting an excess of allowable heavy metal concentrations in the identified bodies of water in the Philippines. It
was also determined through human health risk assessment calculations that the majority of hazard quotients and
incremental lifetime cancer risk values have exceeded accepted standards, indicating possible harm to surrounding
communities. Finally, the formulated policy brief focuses on community participation and engagement, improvements
to waste treatment facilities, the implementation of advanced monitoring systems, and the formulation of improved
programs to enhance the management of heavy metals in the environment
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