A machine learning framework bridging heavy metal contamination and human health risks in agricultural soils of the Yangtze River Delta (2001–2030)

Key Points

• Heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils negatively affects human health risks across the Yangtze River Delta.
• The analysis indicates that higher heavy metal levels correlate with increased health issues, underscoring environmental concerns.
• Assessment using a machine learning framework reveals patterns linking soil contamination to health outcomes in 2001-2030.
• This study highlights the urgent need for monitoring heavy metals in soils to mitigate health risks related to contamination.