@article{article_1758457, title={A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Lead Concentrations in Fish: Implications for Dietary Exposure and Risk Assessment}, journal={MEMBA Su Bilimleri Dergisi}, volume={11}, pages={375–387}, year={2025}, DOI={10.58626/memba.1758457}, author={Demir, Tuğba and Tutun, Soner and Karapınar, Betül}, keywords={Kurşun kontaminasyonu, Balık dokusu, Risk değerlendirmesi, THQ (Hedef Tehlike Katsayısı), Meta-analiz}, abstract={This meta-analysis aims to comprehensively evaluate lead (Pb) accumulation levels in edible fish tissues and the potential health risks associated with dietary exposure. A systematic search was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, and out of an initial 500 studies, only 95 met the inclusion criteria. Studies published after 2015, presenting tissue-specific Pb data from fish samples, were included. The weighted mean Pb concentration was calculated using a random-effects model, and inter-study heterogeneity was assessed (τ², Q-statistic). Health risk assessment was conducted using the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) based on USEPA parameters. The overall weighted mean Pb concentration was 0.37 µg/g (95% CI: 0.32–0.41). THQ values varied by region, with several liver tissue samples exceeding the acceptable risk threshold (THQ ≥ 1). High heterogeneity among studies was attributed to variations in environmental contamination, fish species, and methodological approaches. These findings highlight the necessity for stricter monitoring of Pb residues in fish, especially in regions exposed to industrial and agricultural pollution, and call for region-specific regulatory updates. This study provides a robust global-scale statistical assessment of lead contamination in the aquatic food chain, aiming to inform and support food safety and public health policy development.}, number={3}, publisher={Kastamonu Üniversitesi}