Environmental Assessment of Heavy Metal Accumulation in Soil and Dust Surrounding Healthcare Facilities in Al-Qadisiyah, Iraq

Kadhum, Safaa; Hussien, Zahraa

doi:10.29350/qjps.2026.171282.1094

	Environmental Assessment of Heavy Metal Accumulation in Soil and Dust Surrounding Healthcare Facilities in Al-Qadisiyah, Iraq
Al-Qadisiyah Journal of Pure Science
Article 9, Volume 31, Issue 1, July 2026, Pages 140-152 PDF (600.76 K)
Document Type: Environmental
DOI: 10.29350/qjps.2026.171282.1094
Authors
Safaa Kadhum^* ; Zahraa Hussien
University of Al-Qadisiyah
Abstract
Urban heavy metal contamination presents a critical challenge to environmental and public health, especially within healthcare environments that house vulnerable populations. This study evaluates the accumulation and health risks of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni) in soil and surface dust at five major healthcare facilities in Al-Diwaniyah, Iraq. A total of 30 samples were collected from hospital gardens, windows, and waiting areas to represent both outdoor and indoor exposure. Analysis was performed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry following controlled acid digestion. Results indicated that heavy metal concentrations vary significantly across sites, with Pb levels peaking at Al-Diwaniya Hospital (44.20 mg/kg) and Ni frequently exceeding safety standards. Non-carcinogenic health risk assessments using USEPA models revealed that ingestion is the primary exposure pathway. While most metals posed minimal risk, mercury (Hg) at Al-Sadr II Hospital exceeded the safety threshold (HQ > 1), suggesting potential localized health concerns. These findings underscore the urgent need for improved medical waste management and continuous environmental monitoring within hospital settings.
Keywords
Heavy metals; Hospitals; Health risk

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