Impact of Mercury Poisoning in Rivers: A Bibliometric Review of Human Health Effects

Mercury poisoning in rivers poses a serious threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health, particularly for communities reliant on these resources. This article presents a bibliometric review of scientific literature (2015–2025) to analyze the impact of mercury in rivers and its health effects, identifying research trends and gaps. The methodology involved a Scopus search using key terms such as "mercury poisoning," "rivers," and "human health," selecting 1,194 articles analyzed through bibliometric indicators and content analysis with Bibliometrix. Results revealed a progressive increase in publications, peaking in 2023–2024, reflecting growing global concern. Four main thematic areas were identified: (1) toxicity mechanisms and bioaccumulation of methylmercury, (2) health effects, particularly in vulnerable groups, (3) risk assessment and monitoring methodologies, and (4) mitigation and remediation strategies. Key findings highlighted disparities in artisanal mining regions, advances in detection technologies, and challenges in implementing policies like the Minamata Convention. The study concludes that while robust evidence exists on mercury risks, gaps persist in harmonizing methods and applying sustainable solutions.