Soot and Carcinogenesis in Rivers State

Abstract

Soot is the product of incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons. It is a fine black powdery substance also known as Black Carbon that arises from the burning of substances such as oils, woods, chars, tyres, and other hydrocarbon compounds. This processes leads to the release of various components within the soot particles which have been linked to various diseases. Soot is formed through complex chemical processes and are dispersed by air. The sticky nature of soot allow it to stick to exhaust pipes of power generating set and automobiles. It has also been identified as a major pollutant around the world, with the highest amount being emitted by developing countries. Africa ranks high among the highest emitters of soot and in world, especially with the spike in the activities of artisanal refining of crude oil and gas flaring in the South-South Nigeria, particularly the Niger-Delta. Heavy metals such as Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Iron, Nickel, and Arsenic have been found to be present in soot and are linked to various types of cancers like the cancers of the lungs, liver, skin, throat, and disease such as diabetes. Many respiratory conditions treated in hospitals within Rivers State has been linked to soot and its component. Further studies predicts that the cases could worsen if the emissions continues. This study is focused on black soot and its carcinogenesis in Rivers State.