Comprehensive Analysis of Groundwater Quality and its Role in Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Etiology (Ckdu) in Gashua, Northeastern Nigeria

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease is progressively becoming an alarming health issue in Gashua, Northeastern Nigeria. This study examines groundwater quality, the primary drinking water source, to assess heavy metal contamination and its potential link to rising CKD cases. 25 borehole water samples were analyzed, revealing low pH, TDS, and ion levels (Ca, Mg, Cl), within Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) limits, suggesting minimal geogenic contamination. However, heavy metals were above permissible limits: arsenic (As) ranged from 0.01 to 0.88 mg/l (NSDWQ limit: 0.01 mg/l), cadmium (Cd) 0.01-0.13 mg/l (limit: 0.003 mg/l), and mercury (Hg) 0.01-0.05 mg/l (limit: 0.006 mg/l).Hydrogeological studies showed contaminants move northward, likely from agricultural and waste disposal activities in the south. GIS mapping confirmed high contamination in southern areas. Urgent measures such as groundwater monitoring, waste management, and water treatment systems are needed to mitigate CKD risks.

Keywords: Groundwater quality, CKDu, Gashua, Heavy metal contamination, Groundwater flow