Inorganic arsenic in aquatic products in Shenzhen, China from 2018 to 2024: Levels, temporal variation and health risk assessment.

Aquatic products are a significant source of arsenic exposure, with inorganic arsenic (iAs) posing a significant risk to humans. This study assessed iAs levels in 1191 aquatic products from Shenzhen, China (2018-2024), and estimated health risks. Shellfish had lower mean iAs levels (0.01 mg/kg ∼ 0.07 mg/kg), while crab, fish, and shrimp had higher levels (0.04 mg/kg ∼ 0.06 mg/kg). The iAs levels in shellfish were stable from 2018 to 2024. Health risk assessments showed estimated daily intake values ranging from 0.01 μg/kg·bw/day to 0.39 μg/kg·bw/day, with children having the highest exposure. The target hazard quotient exceeded 1 for fish and shrimp in high-consumption scenarios for children, indicating potential non-carcinogenic risks. Cancer risk estimates surpassed acceptable thresholds, especially for children and adolescents, suggesting an increased cancer risk with high consumption. Authorities should strengthen surveillance of iAs in aquatic products, especially shellfish and shrimp, and enhance environmental monitoring in Shenzhen.