Abstract This study aims to identify and characterize the types and concentrations of Endocrine Disrupting Compounds (EDCs) present in the Ikpa River, Southern Nigeria. In this study, the accessible population comprised two hundred and eighty (280) respondents and samples in the locality. The sample size was determined using the Taro Yamane formula and calculated as 147 respondents. The samples were analyzed using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) to identify and quantify selected Bisphenols (A, S, F, P, Z) and Nonylphenols. Physicochemical parameters were measured to assess general water quality, while a community-based questionnaire captured public awareness and potential exposure pathways. Results indicated that water quality parameters, such as pH (6.8–6.9), dissolved oxygen (8.5 mg/L), and total dissolved solids (24–28 mg/L), were within the limits set by the WHO and NESREA. However, trace concentrations of bisphenols and nonylphenols (0.20–2.20 ppb) were detected across all sampling sites. Primary data were analysed using Statistical Package on Social Science (SPSS Version 25), Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Pearson Correlation methods. The result of the research hypotheses showed the type and concentration of EDCs in the Ikpa River. The study recommends that eco-friendly alternative products be used in place of EDC-containing products. This prevents harmful compounds from entering the environment, thereby reducing water contamination and the need for costly water treatment or remediation measures in the future.
Archibong et al. (Sat,) studied this question.