Calidad del agua del río siete mediante análisis de metales pesados y su relación con enfermedades en comunidades ribereñas

Abstract

Mining activity has been considered one of the main sources of heavy metal contamination in bodies of water, with direct repercussions on the surrounding ecosystems and communities. In Ecuador, the increase in mining production, particularly in small and medium-sized companies, has intensified the presence of these contaminants in rivers and water sources that are essential for the population. Heavy metals such as arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb) have a high density and the capacity to form water-soluble complexes, which facilitates their transport and accumulation in the trophic chain. Although it is important to highlight that water deterioration has not only been caused by mining activity, but also by other anthropogenic activities, such as industrialization, population growth and inadequate waste management. In view of this situation, the objective of this research is to evaluate the levels of heavy metal contamination in the surface waters of the Siete River and its influence on the health of the inhabitants. The study evaluated the water quality of the Siete River and its relationship with health problems in the river community. Twenty-five inhabitants were surveyed to determine sociodemographic factors and possible affectations. Physicochemical analyses were performed, including pH, temperature, density, electrical conductivity, and total solids. The results indicated alkaline pH levels (6.98-7.31), stable temperature (23.3-23.5°C), and variations in density and electrical conductivity, suggesting heavy metal contamination. Mercury levels were found to exceed the limits established by TULSAM VI regulations, while arsenic concentrations in all three samples (sample 1; 0.0380 mg/L, sample 2; 0.6905 mg/L and 1.72 mg/L) exceeded the permissible values according to WHO and INEN 1108:2020. These findings suggest a potential toxicological risk for the exposed population, since bioaccumulation of these heavy metals can generate long-term adverse effects. For data processing, statistical tools such as Jamovi were applied to validate the results and their subsequent interpretation. For the physicochemical analysis of the water, standardized methodologies were used, such as APHA 4500-H+B for pH, ASTM D1429-13 for density and APHA 2510 B for electrical conductivity. The quantification of heavy metals was performed by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry in certified laboratories. The results confirm the relationship between water pollution and community health, highlighting the need for urgent monitoring and mitigation measures to reduce the environmental impact and health of the population.