Environmental Contamination by Heavy Metals: A Systematic Review of Reviews on Ecotoxicological Impacts, Human Health Risks, and Mitigation Strategies
Environmental Contamination by Heavy Metals: A Systematic Review of Reviews on Ecotoxicological Impacts, Human Health Risks, and Mitigation Strategies
Keywords:
Metais Pesados, Contaminação Ambiental, Saúde Pública, Bioacumulação, Biorremediação, EcotoxicologiaAbstract
Environmental contamination by heavy metals poses an increasing threat to public health, food safety, and ecosystem integrity. Elements such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, and copper are highly toxic, persistent, and bioaccumulative, with direct impacts on aquatic and terrestrial organisms as well as humans. This study conducted an umbrella review (systematic review of systematic reviews) based on a critical analysis of eleven reviews published between 2018 and 2025. Study selection followed strict eligibility criteria based on methodological rigor, thematic relevance, and environmental-health focus. Data extraction and synthesis prioritized information on the types of metals investigated, exposure matrices, ecotoxicological and human health effects, mitigation strategies, and identified research gaps. The findings revealed significant bioaccumulation of metals in fish, mollusks, and cultivated plants, often exceeding internationally accepted safety thresholds. Evidence also highlighted systemic toxic effects, including hepatic, hormonal, and reproductive dysfunctions, as well as increased cancer risk. Common consumer products, such as toothpaste, were identified as additional exposure sources. Remediation strategies such as bioremediation and biosorption showed promise but require further validation for large-scale application. This review concludes that a One Health approach is essential to address the issue integratively, and calls for stronger public policies, standardized biomonitoring protocols, and technological innovation to mitigate the impacts of heavy metal pollution.
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