Work

Assessment of Environmental Radiation Levels in Anambra South Senatorial District, Anambra State, Nigeria

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The environmental radiation levels in Anambra South Senatorial District were evaluated through in situ measurements using a well-calibrated nuclear radiation meter (Radalert-100TM). A Global Positioning System (GPS) was utilized to record the exact coordinates of the selected locations. A total of 170 sampling locations were surveyed across the district. The average exposure rate across the district was measured as 0.0123 ± 0.0003 mRh −1 . The overall average values for the absorbed dose rate (ADR), equivalent dose rate (EDR), annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) were 106.35 ± 2.82 nGyh −1 , 1.03 ± 0.03, 0.131 ± 0.004 mSvy −1 , and 0.459 ± 0.003 × 10 −3 , respectively. The findings indicate that the average exposure rates in the district were within the international threshold of 0.013 mRh −1 established by the International Commission on Radiation Protection (ICRP), suggesting that the region is generally safe for human habitation. However, the calculated radiological hazard indices, particularly ADR and ELCR, exceeded the permissible limits of 84 nGyh −1 and 0.29 × 10 −3 , respectively. While these elevated values do not pose an immediate radiological health threat, continuous exposure over a lifetime may present a significant risk to the population.

Source: Environmental Health Insights

DOI: 10.1177/11786302251350781

Authors: Vivian C. Ezemba, Chijioke M. Amakom, Chinyere P. Ononugbo, Gregory O. Avwiri, Romanus E. Ugwoke

Institutions: Federal University of Technology Owerri, University of Port Harcourt

Language: English

Topic: Radioactivity and Radon Measurements

Subfield: Radiological and Ultrasound Technology

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,650