Assessment of Human Health Risk Associated with High Groundwater Fluoride Intake in Southern Districts of Punjab, India

Groundwater is the major source of fluoride toxicity in humans. The excess intake of fluoride causes serious health hazards in humans. This study aimed to investigate the groundwater fluoride contents and the associated health risks in residents of southern districts of Punjab, India. A total of 76 representative groundwater samples were collected across 14 districts of the Malwa region, Punjab and then analysed for chemical parameters. Results indicated fluoride contents in the range of 0.60-5.07 mg L-1. The majority of sites showed higher contents of fluoride in groundwater than the permissible limit (1.0 mg L-1) as prescribed by World Health Organization. The values of chronic daily intake (CDI) and Hazard Quotient (HQ(Fluoride)) suggested the high risk of non-carcinogenic health hazards in local residents due to excessive consumption of fluoride-rich groundwater. The HQ(Fluoride) was estimated to be in the ranges of 0.29-2.41 (adult) and 0.67-5.63 (children) for all sampling locations, suggesting significantly higher risk than the permissible limits (> 1). On the basis of results, the area can be categorized as a high-risk zone for fluoride-related problems and needs serious attention in order to ensure the health safety of local residents.