چکیده
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Background: This study was performed to evaluate the levels of heavy metals in the livers and kidneys of cattle, sheep and goats from a mining region in the west of Iran. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 90 samples were collected from the livers and kidneys of
cattle (n=30), sheep (n=30) and goats (n=30) from a slaughterhouse in Hamedan City, western Iran. Lead, cadmium, manganese, zinc, copper, and iron concentrations were analyzed using
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. Results: Lead concentration exceeded the permissible limit in all samples. Cadmium level was
within the permissible limit in most samples, except for the cattle and sheep kidneys. Iron concentration was normal in all samples, except for sheep livers and kidneys. The rest of the
elements (manganese, zinc and copper) were within the safe range. There were no sex and agerelated
significant
differences
in
metal
concentrations
of
cattle
samples.
The
highest
effects
of
age
and
sex
were
observed
in
sheep
samples.
Conclusion: The soil of these areas contains high level of lead and cadmium, contaminating the
plants, water and animals of these regions; therefore, precise care and health inspection of livestock in these areas are recommended.
Keywords: Environmental Pollution, Heavy Metals, Liver, Kidney, Ruminants
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