A Review of Dioxin Contamination and Health Risks In Egypt

Donia*1, Radwa; Salem1, , Sherin; El Tohamy1, Marwa; Fawzy2, Enas M

doi:10.21608/enj.2025.426968

A Review of Dioxin Contamination and Health Risks In Egypt

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ 1 Nutritional chemistry & metabolism Department, National Nutrition Institute, Cairo, Egypt

² 2 Growth and Nutrient Requirements Department, National Nutrition Institute, Cairo, Egypt

10.21608/enj.2025.426968

Abstract

ABSTRACT
This study aims to assess dioxin contamination in Egypt by compiling studies that have analyzed dioxin pollutants in air, water, soil, and food in the country to determine exposure levels and potential health risks. Samples were collected from multiple locations, including industrial, agricultural, and urban areas, to evaluate dioxin concentrations. The results indicate that industrial activities and poor waste management, particularly open burning and uncontrolled emissions, are the main sources of environmental dioxin pollution. Soil and water samples near industrial areas exhibited high contamination levels, and bioaccumulation was detected in food products such as dairy, fish, and meat. This raises concerns about dietary exposure, as continuous consumption of contaminated food may lead to severe health consequences. Health risk assessments indicate that chronic exposure to dioxins may result in hormonal imbalances, immune system suppression, reproductive disorders, and an increased risk of cancer. Vulnerable groups, such as children and pregnant women, are at higher risk due to the long-term accumulation of these compounds in their bodies. Dioxins, a group of persistent and toxic environmental pollutants, pose significant health risks. While studies in Egypt have focused on food contamination, including dairy products, fish, and meat, no comprehensive dietary intake assessments exist to fully evaluate health risks .These findings suggest urgent regulatory measures are needed to reduce dioxin contamination in Egypt. This requires strengthening environmental policies, improving waste management systems, and enforcing strict controls on industrial emissions. This study emphasizes the importance of intervention to mitigate the long-term impacts of dioxin pollution in Egypt.

Keywords