Health risks associated with heavy metal pollution of soils in communities surrounding an abandoned mine tailings dam

The encroachment of mine tailing dams threatens residents' health due to heavy metals in tailings. The study assesses the extent of heavy metal (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Pb) contamination and potential health risks of communities sited near the Pompora tailing dam. Soil samples from eight (8) communities were examined for the presence of heavy metals, and the extent of contamination was estimated using the contamination factor (CF), pollution load index (PLI), geo-accumulation index (I-geo), and enrichment factor (EF). The hazard quotient and hazard index were calculated to predict the potential adverse effects of heavy metals via ingestion in children, adult females, and males. The concentrations of Fe (24,464.75–46,751.0 mg/kg), Mn (2,269.75–4,911.0 mg/kg), As (55.4–90.93 mg/kg), and Pb (70.58–91.38 mg/kg) were above the world average, sub-regional levels, and most reports within the Obuasi Municipality. The PLI indicated significant heavy metal pollution (PLI > 1) in all communities near the Pompora tailing dam. In contrast, the contamination factor indicated very high contamination (CF > 6) for Mn, Cd, and As, with the I-geo indicating strong As pollution. The hazard quotient and index unveiled potential adverse health effects in children accruing from As pollution in soil via ingestion, with communities closer to mine installations being most impacted. The study reveals heavy metal pollution in the soil of communities near the Pompora tailing dam, with As pollution posing potential health risks in children, consequently necessitating ecologically friendly intervention to safeguard public health.