Objective To analyze the pollution characteristics of eight heavy metals in 380 farmland soil samples from Hubei province, China in 2021, and to provide a basis for formulating policies on soil pollution control and health risk prevention.

Methods In 2021, 380 soil samples were collected from 19 cities, counties, and districts across the eastern, central, and western regions of Hubei province.The contents of eight heavy metals (Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Pb) were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.Contamination was evaluated using descriptive statistical analysis, the pollution load index, and the potential ecological risk index.A principal component analysis was conducted for source identification.

Results The median content of Cd was slightly higher than the soil background value of Hubei province.Cd, Cu, and Pb showed large coefficients of variation (>50%), indicating localized pollution.The median contamination factor values for individual heavy metals were in the order of Cd (1.29)>Pb (0.98)>Zn (0.966)>Mn (0.917)>Cu (0.916)>As (0.912)>Ni (0.851)>Cr (0.727).The median comprehensive potential ecological risk index across the 19 cities, districts, and counties was 65.0.Cd was identified as the primary risk factor, with pollution being particularly prominent in the western region.

Conclusion In 2021, the farmland soils across Hubei province were generally at a relatively low ecological risk level.However, Cd contamination was relatively severe, while Cu, Zn, and Pb showed mild contamination.Sources of heavy metals exhibited regional variations, with industrial and mining activities being the primary anthropogenic contributors.Future efforts in Hubei province should prioritize Cd-contaminated areas and implement zoning-based targeted management measures.