Risk Estimation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma due to Exposure to Aflatoxins in Maize from Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Besides their mutagenic, carcinogenic, and teratogenic effects, Aflatoxins (AFs) also act as the main contributor to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) which is known as the most common primary liver cancer worldwide. The main aim of this study was risk estimation of HCC due to exposure to aflatoxins in maize from Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

Methods: As a model, maize samples were taken from Yogyakarta province, Indonesia. The present research was conducted by risk assessment approach which includes hazard identification, hazard characterization, exposure assessment, and risk characterization. The aflatoxin analysis was performed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography method and the secondary data was taken from the province report.

Results: The mean total AF in raw material, dried maize chips, and fried chips were 46.58, 17.58, and 13.24 ppb, respectively. The raw material clearly had higher level of all AF types. The mean of contamination of total AF in raw material (46.58 ppb) exceeded the standard level (20 ppb), while the other products were not more than standard level. The yearly maximum exposure to AFB1 ranged from 85.07 to 92.80 ng/kg body weight per day. The estimation of HCC cases ranged from no case to 43 cases per year.

Conclusion: Preventive hygienic efforts are needed to reduce AF contamination and risk of HCC in maize consumed in this region of Indonesia.