Mercury levels in a sample of the population in Southern Bolívar - Colombia at risk of environmental exposure

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Mercury contamination is a relevant problem today, due to the toxic effects it can have, ranging from cancer to nervous system disorders. Artisanal gold mining is an important source of mercury, due to the vapors from the process and the discharge into soils and bodies of water, reaching other trophic chains, biomagnifying and affecting humans METHODS: This research aimed to determine the serum levels of total mercury and methylmercury in a population under 18 years of age in the south of Bolivar in municipalities such as Barranco de Loba, Pueblo Mejia and Mina Azul in the Department of Bolivar - Colombia As a sampling technique, the protocol for collecting DBS (Dried Blood Spots in 19 inhabitants was implemented and static analysis was performed. RESULTS:The results showed methylmercury levels of 0.490–11.616 mcg/L, inorganic mercury of 0.302–7.120 mcg/L and total mercury of 1.844–13.772 mcg/L, values above the reference data (United States Environmental Protection Agency). In addition, a strong association was found between age, proximity to the river and total mercury concentrations. CONCLUSIONS:Note that these are preliminary studies, however, they alert future consequences that may be presented by the population vulnerable to this type of contamination. KEYWORDS: Heavy metals, Water quality, Exposures, Cancer and cancer precursors