Public health challenges as a result of contaminated water sources in Kumba, Cameroon.

Kumba, the largest city in the Southwest Region of Cameroon, is characterized by the prevalence of waterborne diseases due to ingestion of contaminated water. Sixty-four water samples were collected from different sources including pipe-borne (PW), surface/stream (SW) and groundwater (HDW) sources as well as the catchment area (CW) in Kumba metropolis. These water samples were analyzed for physicochemical and microbiological parameters and the results compared with international standards. The results of physiochemical parameters showed that the water samples were mildly acidic, not saline and soft. The levels of some trace elements (Al, Fe, As, Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb) in some water samples were higher than permissible limits. Water Quality Index, Contamination Index (Cd) and Trace Element Toxicity Index were used to evaluate the water samples. Results showed that most of the water sources are poor and unsafe for consumption due to high concentrations of Al, Fe, Mn and Pb. Microbiological parameters revealed that 74% of the water samples are in the class of high risk to grossly polluted. Pollution associated with the catchment area was probably the main factor controlling the quality of pipe-borne water, while that of the surface and groundwater may be attributed to geogenic and anthropogenic sources including unlined pit latrines. Water sources, especially those ingested by humans in Kumba, should be properly managed including regular treatment so as to protect the health of humans and improve the quality of life.

Distribution of PAHs in surface soils from petroleum handling facilities in Calabar.

The level of concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in surface soils from petroleum handling facilities (kerosene tank, generating plant, petrol stations, mechanic workshops, leaking pipeline and air port fuel dump) from Calabar metropolis southeastern Nigeria was determined by gas chromatography/ mass spectrometry. The results show that total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) varied from 1.80 to 334.43 mg/kg with a mean of 50.31 mg/kg. The lowest value of 1.80 mg/kg was obtained from petrol station while the highest value of 334.43 mg/kg was obtained from facility characterised by petrol stations and mechanic workshops. The ratio of phenanthrene/anthracene and fluoranthene/pyrene, varied from 0.43 to 27.72 and from 0.14 to 17.76 respectively. These ratios indicate various sources for the PAH. The two to three ring PAHs are the most abundant. Based on the PAH ratios and content alone it is not possible to distinguish between contribution from motor vehicle exhaust, gasoline spillage, used engine oil or petroleum production. However, considering the area of the study, it is very likely that the major source of soil contamination is originating from petroleum product.