Spatial distribution of heavy metal contamination and uncertainty-based human health risk in the aquatic environment using multivariate statistical method

Heavy metal contamination in the aquatic environment is one of the most serious health issues worldwide. In this study, an evaluation framework is developed to identify the sources and health risk of heavy metals (i.e., As, Hg, Cr, Cu, Zn, Pb, and Cd) contamination in the North Canal of Fengtai District, China, which is based on multiple approaches, including multivariate statistical method, health risk assessment, and uncertainty analysis. Spatial distribution of these heavy metals could exhibit their impact on the aquatic environment. Pearson’s correlation analysis shows that a majority of the correlations between different heavy metals are not significant due to the differences in sources of heavy metals. Principal component analysis indicates that there are four principal components to explain 91.381% of the total variance. Moreover, health risk reveals that hazard quotient values are in low levels, ranging from 0.48 to 0.74, relative higher quotient levels could be observed in the northern section. The carcinogenic risk of Cd has exceeded the acceptable level in S1, S3, and S7. Sensitivity analysis ensures the reliability of health risk assessments. Furthermore, some specific recommendations are given to help decision-makers develop more comprehensive strategies for improving water environment quality.