Özet:

Soil ecosystem is an important environment which works as a filter for the contaminants in the nature and on which the plants grow. Becausethere is matter and energy exchange between the water, air and soil ecosystems in the nature, any contaminant in an ecosystem may betransferred to the others. Contamination of the soil by heavy metals has a particular importance, as heavy metals can reach to humans andcause diseases by means of plants. If presence of heavy metals in soil exceeds certain concentrations, it is regarded as contamination. Highdose heavy metals may cause various diseases, especially cancer, in conjunction with the factors such as the genetic immunity, general stateof health, age and nutrition status of humans. This article examines the importance of heavy metals such as mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), nickel(Ni), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) on human health presenting some research results and clarifies theadverse effects of heavy metal contamination of soil on human health and the precautions to be taken about this matter.

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