Human hair and nail samples from Cuddalore fisherfolk populations were used as biomarkers for assessing metal concentrations in humans. Hair samples from 80 participants (47 men and 33 women) and nail samples from 40 participants (21 men and 19 women) were collected, and the concentrations of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn were assessed using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Metal data from AAS were compared with the survey questionnaire's personal and dietary parameters. Results indicate that both personal and dietary parameters may influence metal exposure; however, majority of the sources may have originated from metal-contaminated seafood. Higher metal accumulation in communities, especially those which consume seafood on a daily basis, may increase the possibility for them to get affected by metal-related diseases. Based on environmental parameters, people who live ≤500 m from industrial zones accumulate more metals. Further extensive studies with more individuals and more questionnaire parameters are needed to identify the metal accumulation pathway in humans.
Keywords: Bioaccumulation; Food safety; Health; Non-invasive approach; Questionnaire.
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