Asia Pacific Environmental and Occupational Health Journal

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the levels of nitrate in groundwater and health risk assessment in Cherang Melintang village in Tumpat, Kelantan, located in north-east of Peninsular Malaysia. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in January 2020 to determine the associated health risk due to nitrate exposure from groundwater usage. Data for this study were obtained from water analysis and questionnaires. Nitrate levels were determined using a portable pH/ORP/ISE meter Model HI98191 from Hanna Instrument with an attached nitrate electrode. Results: Nitrate in all water samples did not exceed the maximum acceptable level in drinking water (10 ppm).  Mean nitrate level was 2.91 ± SD 2.57 ppm, while the range was between 0.42 – 8.78 ppm. In addition, mean for age and depth of wells as well as distance of wells from source of nitrate was 3.24 ± SD 1.779 years, 2.40 ± SD 0.782m and 14.04 ± SD 8.425m. Hazard Quotient (HQ) for all respondents were found to be less than 1 (HQ < 1). Conclusion: Residents in Cherang Melintang village are exposed to groundwater with safe levels of nitrate and therefore, can expect no adverse health impact due to the pollutant