Percepção de consumidoras de peixes da região de Macapá-AP sobre os riscos de contaminação por metilmercúrio

Abstract

Methylmercury contamination in aquatic ecosystems represents a serious environmental and public health problem, especially in the Amazon region, where fish is the basis of the local diet. Methylmercury has a high bioaccumulation capacity and can cause irreversible damage to the central nervous system, being even more dangerous for women of childbearing age due to the risks of fetal transfer through the umbilical cord. This study aimed to collect information regarding the perception of fish consumers in the Macapá-AP region about the probable risks of methylmercury contamination. The methodology consisted of a literature review and the application of a questionnaire to 50 participants, women between 18 and 45 years old. The results of the literature review indicated that carnivorous species appreciated in Amapá, such as the tucunaré, present mercury levels that exceed the safety limits of the World Health Organization (WHO). Field research revealed that, although 66% of those interviewed had heard about the contamination, most maintain a weekly fish consumption higher than recommended and are unaware of which species pose the greatest risk. Furthermore, there were reports of symptoms such as headache, mental confusion, and physical imbalance among the participants, but, given the subjectivity of a perception study, there is no evidence linking these symptoms to methylmercury contamination. It is concluded that methylmercury contamination is a topic little known by the target audience, which is concerning because the study region has rivers contaminated by activities related to illegal mining. Therefore, the need for continuous monitoring of the local fish fauna to assess the presence of methylmercury and environmental education actions to raise awareness and ensure the food security of the population was identified.