151
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Impact of living environment on 2-year mortality in elderly maintenance hemodialysis patients. PLoS One 2013; 8:e74358. [PMID: 24058552 PMCID: PMC3776842 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0074358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Accepted: 07/31/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Studies on risk factors of mortality in elderly patients with hemodialysis usually focus on comorbidities, nutrition, and inflammation. Discussion on the correlation between living environment and mortality of these patients is limited. Methods A total of 256 elderly hemodialysis patients participated in this 2-year prospective observational study. The subjects were divided into 2 subgroups based on whether they were living in Taipei Basin (n = 63) or not (n = 193). Demographic, hematological, nutritional, inflammatory, biochemical, and dialysis-related data were obtained for cross-sectional analysis. Causes of death and mortality rates were also analyzed for each subgroup. Results Patients in the basin group had a higher incidence of combined protein-energy wasting and inflammation than those in the around basin group. At the end of the 2-year follow-up, 68 patients had died. Univariate binary logistic regression analysis revealed that a very advanced age, basin group, serum albumin levels, serum creatinine levels, non-anuria, and the complications of stroke and CAD were associated with 2-year mortality. Meanwhile, log high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels were not associated with 2-year mortality. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that basin group, serum albumin levels, and the complications of stroke and CAD were significant risk factors for 2-year mortality in these patients. Conclusion The results of this study indicate that factors such as living in the Taipei Basin with higher air pollutant levels in elderly hemodialysis patients is associated with protein-energy wasting and inflammation, as well as 2-year mortality. These findings suggest that among this population, living environment is as important as comorbidities and nutrition. Furthermore, air pollution should be getting more attention especially in the overcrowding Basin topography.
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152
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Huang J, Deng F, Wu S, Lu H, Hao Y, Guo X. The impacts of short-term exposure to noise and traffic-related air pollution on heart rate variability in young healthy adults. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2013; 23:559-64. [PMID: 23591697 DOI: 10.1038/jes.2013.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2012] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Traffic-related air pollution and noise are associated with cardiovascular diseases, and alternation of heart rate variability (HRV), which reflects cardiac autonomic function, is one of the mechanisms. However, few studies considered the impacts of noise when exploring associations between air pollution and HRV. We explored whether noise modifies associations between short-term exposure to traffic-related air pollution and HRV in young healthy adults. In this randomized, crossover study, 40 young healthy adults stayed for 2 h in a traffic center and, on a separate occasion, in a park. Personal exposure to traffic-related air pollutants and noise were measured and ambulatory electrocardiogram was performed. Effects were estimated using mixed-effects regression models. Traffic-related air pollution and noise were both associated with HRV, and effects of air pollutants were amplified at high noise level (>65.6 A-weighted decibels (dB[A])) compared with low noise level (≤ 65.6 dB[A]). High frequency (HF) decreased by -4.61% (95% confidence interval, -6.75% to-2.42%) per 10 μg/m(3) increment in fine particle (PM2.5) at 5-min moving average, but effects became insignificant at low noise level (P>0.05). Similar effects modification was observed for black carbon (BC) and carbon monoxide (CO). We conclude that noise is an important factor influencing the effects of air pollution on HRV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Huang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, Peking University School of Public Health, Beijing, China
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153
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Curran JH, Ward HD, Shum M, Davies HW. Reducing cardiovascular health impacts from traffic-related noise and air pollution: intervention strategies. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.5864/d2013-011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that exposure to both traffic-related air pollution (TrAP) and to road traffic noise (RTN) are independent risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). While the exact pathophysiologic mechanisms are not known, plausible biological models exist for both associations. This paper describes interventions and mitigating measures aimed at reducing both air and noise pollution emitted from traffic. Nine types of interventions are examined within the four strategic themes of (i) land-use planning and transportation management, (ii) reduction of vehicle emissions, (iii) modification of existing structures, and (iv) behavioral change. Not all interventions result in concomitant reductions of air and noise pollutant exposures. Most interventions that rely on a scientific basis to reduce CVD are directed at reducing TrAP. Interventions identified with the greatest potential benefits focus on the pollutant source, such as reductions in traffic volume and air pollutant emissions, and are more easily realized, and likely cheaper, if they are considered in the land-use planning stages with less reliance on behavioral changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason H. Curran
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3
| | - Helen D. Ward
- National Collaborating Center for Environmental Health, 400 East Tower, 555 West 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z3X7
| | - Mona Shum
- National Collaborating Center for Environmental Health, 400 East Tower, 555 West 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC, V5Z3X7
- Present address: AMEC Environment and Infrastructure, Suite 600, 4445 Lougheed Highway, Burnaby, BC, V5C 0E4
| | - Hugh W. Davies
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3
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154
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Cardiovascular health, traffic-related air pollution and noise: are associations mutually confounded? A systematic review. Int J Public Health 2013; 58:649-66. [PMID: 23887610 PMCID: PMC3907786 DOI: 10.1007/s00038-013-0489-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2013] [Revised: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This review assessed the confounding effect of one traffic-related exposure (noise or air pollutants) on the association between the other exposure and cardiovascular outcomes. Methods A systematic review was conducted with the databases Medline and Embase. The confounding effects in studies were assessed by using change in the estimate with a 10 % cutoff point. The influence on the change in the estimate of the quality of the studies, the exposure assessment methods and the correlation between road noise and air pollutions were also assessed. Results Nine publications were identified. For most studies, the specified confounders produced changes in estimates <10 %. The correlation between noise and pollutants, the quality of the study and of the exposure assessment do not seem to influence the confounding effects. Conclusions Results from this review suggest that confounding of cardiovascular effects by noise or air pollutants is low, though with further improvements in exposure assessment, the situation may change. More studies using pollution indicators specific to road traffic are needed to properly assess if noise and air pollution are subjected to confounding.
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155
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Xia T, Zhang Y, Crabb S, Shah P. Cobenefits of replacing car trips with alternative transportation: a review of evidence and methodological issues. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 2013:797312. [PMID: 23956758 PMCID: PMC3730154 DOI: 10.1155/2013/797312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2013] [Revised: 06/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
It has been reported that motor vehicle emissions contribute nearly a quarter of world energy-related greenhouse gases and cause nonnegligible air pollution primarily in urban areas. Reducing car use and increasing ecofriendly alternative transport, such as public and active transport, are efficient approaches to mitigate harmful environmental impacts caused by a large amount of vehicle use. Besides the environmental benefits of promoting alternative transport, it can also induce other health and economic benefits. At present, a number of studies have been conducted to evaluate cobenefits from greenhouse gas mitigation policies. However, relatively few have focused specifically on the transport sector. A comprehensive understanding of the multiple benefits of alternative transport could assist with policy making in the areas of transport, health, and environment. However, there is no straightforward method which could estimate cobenefits effect at one time. In this paper, the links between vehicle emissions and air quality, as well as the health and economic benefits from alternative transport use, are considered, and methodological issues relating to the modelling of these cobenefits are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Xia
- School of Population Health, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Population Health, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Fisher Road, Sydney, NSW 2008, Australia
| | - Shona Crabb
- School of Population Health, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Pushan Shah
- Environment Protection Authority, GPO Box 2607, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
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156
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Bono R, Bellisario V, Romanazzi V, Pirro V, Piccioni P, Pazzi M, Bugiani M, Vincenti M. Oxidative stress in adolescent passive smokers living in urban and rural environments. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2013; 217:287-93. [PMID: 23890683 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2013.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Revised: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of this study was to study the oxidative stress status through the urinary 15-F(2t)-isoprostane (15-F(2t)-isoP) among a group of 168 adolescents, differently exposed to passive tobacco smoke. Subjects were enrolled, with written informed consent, between two populations of students living and attending school in two areas with different levels of urbanization in Piedmont Region, North-Western Italy. A general linear model (GLM) analysis was performed to evaluate the role of air pollution, dependent from selected degree of urbanization and of passive exposure to tobacco smoke, quantified through cotinine, in the synthesis of 15-F(2t)-isoP, measured with ELISA technique. Formaldehyde (FA) concentration in air was also evaluated as a primary confounding factor in oxidative stress but no significant differences between the two sites were found. Conversely, direct relationship between oxidative stress status and residence of adolescents was found: oxidative stress level was 31% higher for adolescents living in Chivasso (urban site) than for those living in Casalborgone (countryside area). Furthermore, also passive tobacco smoke exposure proved to play another important direct role in the distribution of 15-F(2t)-isoP levels (p<0.0001). Lastly, an inversely proportional relationship was found between the age of adolescents and 15-F(2t)-isoP (p<0.0001). Finally, the detection of such a sensitive biological response as a consequence of limited differences of environmental pollution and exposure to tobacco smoke passively breathed could provide new and useful knowledge for the appraisal of preventive strategies, particularly for young subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bono
- University of Torino, Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, Torino, Italy.
| | - Valeria Bellisario
- University of Torino, Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, Torino, Italy
| | - Valeria Romanazzi
- University of Torino, Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, Torino, Italy
| | - Valentina Pirro
- University of Torino, Department of Chemistry, Torino, Italy
| | - Pavilio Piccioni
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, National Health Service (ASL TO2), Turin, Italy
| | - Marco Pazzi
- University of Torino, Department of Chemistry, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Marco Vincenti
- University of Torino, Department of Chemistry, Torino, Italy
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157
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Hoek G, Krishnan RM, Beelen R, Peters A, Ostro B, Brunekreef B, Kaufman JD. Long-term air pollution exposure and cardio- respiratory mortality: a review. Environ Health 2013; 12:43. [PMID: 23714370 PMCID: PMC3679821 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-12-43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 951] [Impact Index Per Article: 86.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Accepted: 04/02/2013] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Current day concentrations of ambient air pollution have been associated with a range of adverse health effects, particularly mortality and morbidity due to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. In this review, we summarize the evidence from epidemiological studies on long-term exposure to fine and coarse particles, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and elemental carbon on mortality from all-causes, cardiovascular disease and respiratory disease. We also summarize the findings on potentially susceptible subgroups across studies. We identified studies through a search in the databases Medline and Scopus and previous reviews until January 2013 and performed a meta-analysis if more than five studies were available for the same exposure metric.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Hoek
- Institute of Risk Assessment Sciences, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Rob Beelen
- Institute of Risk Assessment Sciences, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Annette Peters
- Institute of Epidemiology II, Helmholtz Zentrum München –German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Bart Ostro
- Air Pollution Epidemiology Section, Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, State of California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Bert Brunekreef
- Institute of Risk Assessment Sciences, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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158
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Gan WQ, FitzGerald JM, Carlsten C, Sadatsafavi M, Brauer M. Associations of ambient air pollution with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease hospitalization and mortality. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2013; 187:721-7. [PMID: 23392442 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201211-2004oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Ambient air pollution has been suggested as a risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, there is a lack of longitudinal studies to support this assertion. OBJECTIVES To investigate the associations of long-term exposure to elevated traffic-related air pollution and woodsmoke pollution with the risk of COPD hospitalization and mortality. METHODS This population-based cohort study included a 5-year exposure period and a 4-year follow-up period. All residents aged 45-85 years who resided in Metropolitan Vancouver, Canada, during the exposure period and did not have known COPD at baseline were included in this study (n = 467,994). Residential exposures to traffic-related air pollutants (black carbon, particulate matter <2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter, nitrogen dioxide, and nitric oxide) and woodsmoke were estimated using land-use regression models and integrating changes in residences during the exposure period. COPD hospitalizations and deaths during the follow-up period were identified from provincial hospitalization and death registration databases. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS An interquartile range elevation in black carbon concentrations (0.97 × 10(-5)/m, equivalent to 0.78 μg/m(3) elemental carbon) was associated with a 6% (95% confidence interval, 2-10%) increase in COPD hospitalizations and a 7% (0-13%) increase in COPD mortality after adjustment for covariates. Exposure to higher levels of woodsmoke pollution (tertile 3 vs. tertile 1) was associated with a 15% (2-29%) increase in COPD hospitalizations. There were positive exposure-response trends for these observed associations. CONCLUSIONS Ambient air pollution, including traffic-related fine particulate pollution and woodsmoke pollution, is associated with an increased risk of COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Qi Gan
- Department of Population Health, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, Great Neck, NY 11021, USA.
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159
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Gan WQ, McLean K, Brauer M, Chiarello SA, Davies HW. Modeling population exposure to community noise and air pollution in a large metropolitan area. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2012; 116:11-6. [PMID: 22520824 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2012.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2011] [Revised: 03/20/2012] [Accepted: 04/04/2012] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiologic studies have shown that both air pollution and community noise are associated with cardiovascular disease mortality. Because road traffic is a major contributor to these environmental pollutants in metropolitan areas, it is plausible that the observed associations may be confounded by coexistent pollutants. As part of a large population-based cohort study to address this concern, we used a noise prediction model to assess annual average community noise levels from transportation sources in metropolitan Vancouver, Canada. The modeled annual average noise level was 64 (inter quartile range 60-68) dB(A) for the region. This model was evaluated by comparing modeled annual daytime A-weighted equivalent continuous noise levels (L(day)) with measured 5-min daytime A-weighted equivalent continuous noise levels (L(eq,day,5 min)) at 103 selected roadside sites in the study region. On average, L(day) was 6.2 (95% CI, 6.0-7.9) dB(A) higher than, but highly correlated (r=0.62; 95% CI, 0.48-0.72) with, L(eq,day,5 min). These results suggest that our model-based noise exposure assessment could approximately reflect actual noise exposure in the study region. Overall, modeled noise levels were not strongly correlated with land use regression estimates of traffic-related air pollutants including black carbon, particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM(2.5)), NO(2) and NO; the highest correlation was with black carbon (r=0.48), whereas the lowest correlation was with PM(2.5) (r=0.18). There was no consistent effect of traffic proximity on the correlations between community noise levels and traffic-related air pollutant concentrations. These results, consistent with previous studies, suggest that it is possible to assess potential adverse cardiovascular effects from long-term exposures to community noise and traffic-related air pollution in prospective epidemiologic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Qi Gan
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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