Human Exposure to Toxic Metals and Microbiological Pollution via AC-filter Dust from Industrial, Residential and Agricultural Areas: Assessment of Health Risks

The increase in pollutants in the atmosphere, attributed to factors such as road traffic, industrial emissions, and cooking, poses a serious threat to human health. This study assesses the concentration of potentially toxic trace metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, Zn) and microbial load in indoor air using AC filter dust samples from five locations representing residential, agricultural, and industrial settings in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. Analysis revealed that levels of trace metals varied widely, with the highest concentrations of Cr and Cd found in industrial sites, while Pb and Fe were most abundant in agricultural sites. The health risks from skin exposure to metals in dust samples were notably high for Cd, Cr, and Pb, particularly in Al-Qatif's industrial area, where the hazard quotient for these metals was highest. In contrast, the cancer risk associated with the metals was negligible. Additionally, samples from agricultural and industrial areas exhibited substantial bacterial and fungal contamination, with the bacterial contaminants primarily being Gram-negative and exhibiting significant antibiotic resistance. This study underscores the health implications of indoor air quality and the need for improved monitoring and management strategies.