Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metal Exposure in Children's Playgrounds Near Air Quality Monitoring Stations: The Sample of Capital City of Türkiye

Abstract Heavy metal contamination in soil poses serious risks to environmental and child health particularly in playgrounds where children are frequently exposed through soil-related pathways. This study aimed to assess heavy metal concentrations in soils of playgrounds in public parks across Ankara, Türkiye, and evaluate potential health risks to children. It also examined associations between air pollution, environmental contamination, and child health.This cross-sectional ecological study covered 54 playgrounds—three near each of Ankara’s 18 air quality monitoring stations. Twelve heavy metals were analyzed via Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry. Data on air quality and surrounding residential characteristics were used to evaluate potential influences. Health risk assessments included enrichment factor, pollution load index, non-carcinogenic hazard index, and carcinogenic risk level.Iron showed the highest average concentration, while cadmium had the lowest; mercury was not detected. A strong correlation was found between chromium and nickel. At least one metal showed enrichment in all parks, indicating moderate contamination. Non-carcinogenic risk exceeded safety thresholds in 21 parks (38.9%). Carcinogenic risk surpassed acceptable levels in 24 parks (44.4%), with 30 parks (55.6%) within tolerable limits. Parks located right next to main roads had about 14 times higher carcinogenic risk for children, while those near heavily trafficked roads had around 5 times higher risk.This study confirms heavy metal contamination in playground soils, with several parks exceeding safety limits and posing potential risks to children. The results highlight the need to locate parks away from main roads and within residential areas to better protect children's health.