ABSTRACT
The mobilization of the non-essential elements from the mineral matrix to the environment as a consequence of mining activities represents a potential risk to human health since some of those elements are toxic and bioaccumulate into the trophic chain. This study aimed the investigation of the bioavailability and bioaccessibility of non-essential elements detected in some soil samples collected into and close to an ancient gold mine. Samples were sieved and classified according their particle sizes, prior to the chemical analysis. Thirty-one elements were found, including arsenic (As). The highest As content (10,739.2 mg/kg) was found in the smallest particles (<0.037 mm). The gastric (IVBA) and lung bioacessibilities of samples were assessed through in vitro tests. As bioavailabilty was directly related to the total As and Mn content and inversely proportional to the Fe concentration. Fortunately, our results pointed to a low carcinogenic risk to the exposed population.
