Toxicological risks of cohabitation with wild landfills: the case of the Akouedo landfill (Abidjan, Ivory Coast).

The objective of this study is to evaluate the health risks associated with metal exposure (Pb, Cd, Hg and Cr) in the populations living around the Akouédo landfill. This evaluation required the use of the most recent reference toxicological data relating to human exposure to these pollutants and the results of measurements in the environment. Crossing these two data sources using the CalTOX simulation allowed for the calculation of daily exposure, through the consumption of soil dust, contaminated water and foodstuffs. Exposure levels to lead (1.05-1.34 ppm) and mercury (1.46 ∙ 10-2-2.16 ∙ 10-2 ppm) appear highest. The danger quotients are also high and are on average 220 and 54 Toxicological Reference Values (TRVs). In addition, lead exposure for infants presents a danger quotient 15 times TRVs. The calculation of the health impact due to chromium gives 9 cases of cancer that would be reported per year. The comparison of the theoretical values with those estimated by calculation gives overvalued theoretical danger ratios for the four pollutants (Cd, Pb, Hg, Cr). An overvaluation that would be related to uncertainties in measurements and calculations. However, it is clear that people living around the landfill are exposed to the poisoning of the pollutants indicated. This zone is therefore a major public health problem. Consequently, prevention means such as closure and rehabilitation of the site must be taken urgently. Also, the construction in the area, of a hospital center specific to the treatment of the pathologies resulting from the intoxication with the indicated pollutants would be desirable.