Occurrence, distribution characteristics and exposure assessment of perchlorate in the environment in China

Recognizing the extent of perchlorate pollution in the environment is critical to preventing and mitigating potential perchlorate harm to human health. The presence and distribution of perchlorate in Chinese environmental matrixes (water, atmosphere, and soil) were systematically investigated and comprehensively analyzed, and cumulative perchlorate exposure at the regional level was assessed using a combined aggregate exposure pathway method. The results showed that perchlorate is ubiquitous in the environment of China with significant regional differences. The total perchlorate exposure levels in each region of China ranked as South China > Southwest China > East China > North China > Northeast China > Northwest China. Although the average exposure dose of 0.588 (95%CI: 0.142−1.914) μg/kg bw/day being lower than the reference dose of 0.70 μg/kg bw/day, it was observed that the intake of perchlorate in some regions exceed this reference dose. Oral ingestion was the primary route of perchlorate exposure (89.97%–96.57% of the total intake), followed by dermal contact (3.21%–9.16%) and respiratory inhalation. Food and drinking water were the main sources of total perchlorate intake, contributing 52.54% and 31.12% respectively, with the latter contributing significantly more in southern China than in northern China. In addition, perchlorate exposure from dust sources was also noteworthy, as its contribution was as high as 23.18% in some regions. These findings will improve understanding of the perchlorate risk and serve as a critical reference for policymakers in crafting improved environmental management and risk mitigation strategies in China and other nations. The environmental problems of perchlorate have attracted much attention due to its adverse effects on human health. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the presence of perchlorate in various environmental matrices in China through a large-scale survey, as well as the cumulative exposure to this pollutant. Perchlorate levels are significant regional differences and seasonal variations. Daily exposure dose of perchlorate in some regions has exceeded the reference dose of 0.70 μg/kg bw/day, posing a potential health risk. Food and drinking water are the major source of perchlorate intake, but exposure to dust sources is also noteworthy in some regions.