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Ravi P, Muralidhar K, Ngaybe MGB, Nanjaiah S, Jayakrishna P, Lowe AA, Krupp K, Wilson AM, von Hippel FA, Chen Z, Gerald LB, Madhivanan P. Qualitative Study to Explore the Occupational and Reproductive Health Challenges among Women Tobacco Farm Laborers in Mysore District, India. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:606. [PMID: 38791820 PMCID: PMC11121108 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21050606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Tobacco farm laborers are primarily women and children working for very low wages. The aim of this study was to explore occupational and reproductive health challenges faced by women tobacco farm laborers in Mysore District, India. We conducted interviews and six focus group discussions among 41 women tobacco farm laborers. Codes and themes were generated based on deductive and inductive approaches using the socioecological model. Participants reported symptoms of green tobacco sickness including headaches, back pain, gastric problems, weakness, and allergies during menstruation, pre-natal, and post-natal periods. Participants had poor awareness about the health effects of tobacco farming, and there were gender inequalities in wages and the use of personal protective equipment. Participants received support from family and community health workers during their pregnancy and post-natal period. Women reported wanting maternity benefits from the tobacco board, as well as monetary support and nutritional supplements. There is a need for health education about the environmental dangers of tobacco among farm laborers, and more supportive policies for women farmworkers during pregnancy and post-natal periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Ravi
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA (P.M.)
| | | | - Maiya G. Block Ngaybe
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA (P.M.)
| | - Shivamma Nanjaiah
- Public Health Research Institute of India (PHRII), Mysore 570020, Karnataka, India
| | - Poornima Jayakrishna
- Public Health Research Institute of India (PHRII), Mysore 570020, Karnataka, India
| | - Ashley A. Lowe
- Advanced Nursing Practice and Science Division, College of Nursing, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Asthma & Airway Disease Research Center, University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Karl Krupp
- Public Health Research Institute of India (PHRII), Mysore 570020, Karnataka, India
- Public Health Practice, Policy, and Translational Research Department, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Amanda M. Wilson
- Community, Environment & Policy Department, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (A.M.W.)
| | - Frank A. von Hippel
- Community, Environment & Policy Department, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (A.M.W.)
| | - Zhao Chen
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Lynn B. Gerald
- Office of Population Health Sciences, Office of the Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Purnima Madhivanan
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA (P.M.)
- Public Health Research Institute of India (PHRII), Mysore 570020, Karnataka, India
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Moyo YM, Jeebhay MF, Baatjies R, Dadabhai S, Adams S. Obstructive Lung Disease Linked to Occupational Exposures in Malawian Tobacco Farmers. J Agromedicine 2023; 28:867-880. [PMID: 37194463 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2023.2215256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Nicotine and pesticide exposure in agricultural settings have been linked to the development of chronic respiratory disease in workers. However, this has not been extensively studied in Africa. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the prevalence of obstructive lung disease and its relationship to concurrent nicotine and pesticide exposure among small-scale tobacco farmers in Malawi. For this purpose, sociodemographic characteristics, occupational and environmental exposures were evaluated in relation to work-related respiratory symptoms and lung function impairment. A cross-sectional study was conducted enrolling 279 workers in flue-cured tobacco farms in Zomba, Malawi. The study instruments used for assessing the health outcomes were a standardised European Community Respiratory Health Survey II (ECRHS) questionnaire and Spirometry testing. The questionnaires were aimed at collecting relevant data on sociodemographic factors and self-reported respiratory health outcomes. Data were also collected on potential pesticide and nicotine exposures. Spirometry was done to evaluate objective respiratory impairment in accordance with American Thoracic Society guidelines. The mean age of participants was 38 years with 68% being male. The prevalence of work-related ocular nasal symptoms, chronic bronchitis, and work-related chest symptoms was 20%, 17%, and 29%, respectively. Airflow limitation (FEV1/FVC <70%) was found in 8% of workers. Self-reported exposure to pesticides varied from 72%- to 83%, whilst the prevalence of recent green tobacco sickness was 26%. Tasks linked to nicotine exposure, such as sowing (OR: 2.5; CI 1.1-5.7) and harvesting (OR: 2.6; CI 1.4-5.1), were significantly associated with work-related chest symptoms. Pesticide application (OR:1.96; CI 1.0-3.7) was associated with an increased risk of work-related oculonasal symptoms. Duration of pesticide exposure was also associated with obstructive impairment FEV1/FVC
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Affiliation(s)
- Yotam M Moyo
- Occupational Medicine Division and Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mohamed F Jeebhay
- Occupational Medicine Division and Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Roslynn Baatjies
- Occupational Medicine Division and Centre for Environmental & Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Studies, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sufia Dadabhai
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Shahieda Adams
- Occupational Medicine Division and Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Faria NMX, Meucci RD, Fiori NS, Carret MLV, Mello-da-Silva CA, Fassa AG. Acute Pesticide Poisoning in Tobacco Farming, According to Different Criteria. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2818. [PMID: 36833515 PMCID: PMC9957221 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brazil is one of the world's largest pesticide consumers, but information on pesticide poisoning among workers is scarce. OBJECTIVE To evaluate acute pesticide poisoning among tobacco growers, according to different criteria. METHODS This was a two-step cross-sectional study with 492 pesticide applicators. It used a 25 question pesticide-related symptoms (PRS) questionnaire and medical diagnosis for comparison with toxicological assessment. Associations were evaluated using Poisson regression. RESULTS 10.6% reported two or more PRS, while 8.1% reported three or more. Furthermore, 12.2% received a medical diagnosis of poisoning. According to toxicologists, possible cases accounted for 14.2% and probable cases for 4.3%. PRS increased during the period of greater exposure. Those exposed to dithiocarbamates, sulfentrazone, pyrethroids, fipronil and iprodione exhibited more PRS. The number of exposure types, multi-chemical exposure, clothes wet with pesticides and spillage on the body/clothes were associated with acute poisonings. All criteria showed sensitivity greater than 79% for probable cases but only greater than 70% for medical diagnosis when compared to possible cases, presenting substantial Kappa agreement. CONCLUSION The prevalence of acute pesticide poisoning is much higher than officially recorded. Trained physicians can screen for pesticide poisoning. It is necessary to improve workers' education to reduce pesticide use and exposure to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neice Muller Xavier Faria
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas 96030-000, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Dalke Meucci
- Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande, Rio Grande 96203-900, Brazil
| | - Nadia Spada Fiori
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas 96030-000, Brazil
| | - Maria Laura Vidal Carret
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas 96030-000, Brazil
| | | | - Anaclaudia Gastal Fassa
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas 96030-000, Brazil
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Dalberto D, Garcia ALH, De Souza MR, Picinini J, Soares S, De Souza GMS, Chytry P, Dias JF, Salvador M, Da Silva FR, Da Silva J. Dry tobacco leaves: an in vivo and in silico approach to the consequences of occupational exposure. Mutagenesis 2023; 38:120-130. [PMID: 36738258 DOI: 10.1093/mutage/gead003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure of tobacco workers handling dried tobacco leaves has been linked to an increased risk of toxicity and respiratory illness due to the presence of nicotine and other chemicals. This study aimed to evaluate the DNA damage caused by the exposure of tobacco growers during the dry leaf classification process and the relation to cellular mechanisms. A total of 86 individuals participated in the study, divided into a group exposed to dry tobacco (n = 44) and a control group (n = 42). Genotoxicity was evaluated using the alkaline comet assay and lymphocyte micronucleus (MN) assay (CBMN-Cyt), and measurement of telomere length. The levels of oxidative and nitrosative stress were evaluated through the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive species, and nitric oxide levels, respectively. The inorganic elements were measured in the samples using particle-induced X-ray emission method. The combination of variables was demonstrated through principal component analysis and the interactions were expanded through systems biology. Comet assay, MN, death cells, thiobarbituric acid reactive species, and nitrosative stress showed a significant increase for all exposed groups in relation to the control. Telomere length showed a significant decrease for exposed women and total exposed group in relation to men and control groups, respectively. Bromine (Br) and rubidium (Rb) in the exposed group presented higher levels than control groups. Correlations between nitrate and apoptosis; Br and MN and necrosis; and Rb and telomeres; besides age and DNA damage and death cells were observed. The systems biology analysis demonstrated that tobacco elements can increase the nuclear translocation of NFKB dimers inducing HDAC2 expression, which, associated with BRCA1 protein, can potentially repress transcription of genes that promote DNA repair. Dry tobacco workers exposed to dry leaves and their different agents showed DNA damage by different mechanisms, including redox imbalance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiana Dalberto
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, PPGBioSaúde, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Ana L H Garcia
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, PPGBioSaúde, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil.,Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, PPGSDH, La Salle University (UniLaSalle), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Melissa R De Souza
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, PPGBioSaúde, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Juliana Picinini
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, PPGBioSaúde, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Solange Soares
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, PPGBioSaúde, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Guilherme M S De Souza
- Ion Implantation Laboratory, Institute of Physics, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Paola Chytry
- Ion Implantation Laboratory, Institute of Physics, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Johnny F Dias
- Ion Implantation Laboratory, Institute of Physics, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Mirian Salvador
- Biotechnology Institute, University of Caxias do Sul, Caxias do Sul (UCS), RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda R Da Silva
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, PPGSDH, La Salle University (UniLaSalle), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Juliana Da Silva
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, PPGBioSaúde, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil.,Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, PPGSDH, La Salle University (UniLaSalle), Canoas, RS, Brazil
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Islam JY, Mohamed A, Umbach DM, London SJ, Henneberger PK, Beane Freeman LE, Sandler DP, Hoppin JA. Allergic and non-allergic wheeze among farm women in the Agricultural Health Study (2005-2010). Occup Environ Med 2022; 79:oemed-2022-108252. [PMID: 35940867 PMCID: PMC9905343 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2022-108252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Farms represent complex environments for respiratory exposures including hays, grains and pesticides. Little is known about the impact of these exposures on women's respiratory health. We evaluated the association of farm exposures with allergic and non-allergic wheeze among women in the Agricultural Health Study, a study of farmers and their spouses based in Iowa and North Carolina. METHODS We used self-reported data (2005-2010) on current use (≤12 months) of 15 pesticides (selected based on frequency of use) and occupational farm activities from 20 164 women. We defined allergic wheeze as reporting wheeze and doctor-diagnosed hay fever (7%) and non-allergic wheeze as wheeze but not hay fever (8%) in the past 12 months. Using polytomous logistic regression, we evaluated associations of wheeze subtypes with pesticides and other farm exposures (eg, raising farm animals) using no wheeze/hay fever as the referent, adjusting for age, body mass index, state, current asthma, glyphosate use and smoking. RESULTS Current use of any pesticide, reported by 7% of women, was associated with both allergic (OR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.67) and non-allergic (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.51) wheeze. Four pesticides were associated with at least one wheeze subtype: glyphosate, with both wheeze subtypes; diazinon and fly spray with only allergic wheeze; carbaryl with only non-allergic wheeze. Working weekly with mouldy hay was associated with allergic (OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.26 to 2.80) and non-allergic wheeze (OR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.18 to 2.42). CONCLUSION Use of specific pesticides and certain farm activities may contribute to wheeze among farm women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Y Islam
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ahmed Mohamed
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - David M Umbach
- Biostatistics Branch, NIEHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | | | - Dale P Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, NIEHS, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jane A Hoppin
- Department of Biological Sciences, NC State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, NC State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
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6
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Losch EL, Zanatta CB, Barros GPD, Gaia MCDM, Bricarello PA. Os agrotóxicos no contexto da Saúde Única. SAÚDE EM DEBATE 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/0103-11042022e229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO A industrialização da agricultura e da pecuária, além de gerar um ambiente propício à disseminação de agentes infecciosos, é responsável pelo uso generalizado de diversas substâncias tóxicas que afetam a saúde humana, animal e ambiental. O objetivo deste estudo foi promover a reflexão sobre o uso de agrotóxicos e medicamentos veterinários como elementos de debate na construção da Saúde Única. Para isso, foi realizada uma revisão exploratória literária de artigos, livros e documentos oficiais disponíveis em plataformas de banco de dados. A discussão inclui as problemáticas do uso de substâncias tóxicas em plantas e animais. Aborda, também, como os resíduos oriundos de sua utilização impactam a qualidade de alimentos, ar, solo, água com consequências à saúde humana. Embora essa discussão seja escassa na temática de Saúde Única, é fundamental que, além da participação da sociedade civil organizada, gestores públicos assegurem, por meio de políticas públicas, maior segurança e controle na utilização de substâncias tóxicas na agricultura e na pecuária.
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Fassa AG, Faria NMX, Szortyka ALSC, Meucci RD, Fiori NS, de Carvalho MP. Child Labor in Family Tobacco Farms in Southern Brazil: Occupational Exposure and Related Health Problems. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:12255. [PMID: 34832014 PMCID: PMC8620869 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Tobacco farming is considered Hazardous Child Labor in Brazil. This study examined the work of children and adolescents in tobacco farming, characterizing the level of urinary cotinine and the occurrence of Green Tobacco Sickness (GTS), pesticide poisoning, respiratory symptoms, and musculoskeletal disorders. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with a random sample of tobacco growers under 18 years old in Southern Brazil. Ninety-nine young people were interviewed at 79 family farms. The majority began working in agriculture before they were 14 and worked harvesting and tying hands of tobacco; 60% were 16 or 17 years old, and 51.5% were male. During their lifetime, 24.5% reported GTS, and 3% reported pesticide poisoning. In the previous year, 29.3% reported low back pain, 6.1% wheezing, and 16.2% coughing without having a cold. Half of the 12 young people evaluated had over 100 ng/mL of urinary cotinine. The study indicates that child laborers do various activities and present a high prevalence of health problems. Health workers should be trained to identify child laborers and their impacts on health. Full-time farm schools could provide knowledge about sustainable agricultural production, reducing the rates of age-grade mismatch, without taking young people away from rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaclaudia Gastal Fassa
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas 96030-000, Brazil; (N.M.X.F.); (N.S.F.); (M.P.d.C.)
| | - Neice Muller Xavier Faria
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas 96030-000, Brazil; (N.M.X.F.); (N.S.F.); (M.P.d.C.)
| | | | - Rodrigo Dalke Meucci
- Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande, Rio Grande 96203-900, Brazil;
| | - Nadia Spada Fiori
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas 96030-000, Brazil; (N.M.X.F.); (N.S.F.); (M.P.d.C.)
| | - Maitê Peres de Carvalho
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas 96030-000, Brazil; (N.M.X.F.); (N.S.F.); (M.P.d.C.)
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Dalberto D, Nicolau CC, Rosa De Sousa M, Garcia ALH, Boaretto F, Picada JN, De Souza GMS, Chytry P, Dias JF, Feistel CC, Ferraz ABF, Grivicich I, Da Silva J. Genotoxic effect induced by dried nicotiana tabacum leaves from tobacco barns (kiln-houses) in chinese hamster lung fibroblast cells (V79). JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2021; 84:689-701. [PMID: 34034641 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2021.1930619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Nicotiana tabacum is the most cultivated tobacco species in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Workers who handle the plant are exposed to the leaf components during the harvesting process and when separating and classifying the dried leaves. In addition to nicotine, after the drying process, other components may be found including tobacco-specific nitrosamines, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, as well as pesticides residues. The objective of this study was to examine the genotoxicity attributed to the aqueous extract of dried tobacco leaves obtained from tobacco barns using Chinese hamster lung fibroblast cells (V79) as a model system by employing alkaline comet assay, micronucleus (MN) and Ames test. MTT assay was used to assess cytotoxicity and establish concentrations for this study. Data demonstrated cell viability > 85% for concentrations of 0.625-5 mg/ml while the comet assay indicated a significant increase in DNA damage at all concentrations tested. A significant elevation of MN and nuclear buds (NBUD) was found for 5 mg/ml compared to control and other dry tobacco leaves concentrations (0.625-2.5 mg/ml). Mutagenicity was not found using the Salmonella/Microsome test (TA98, TA100, and TA102 strains) with and without metabolic activation. The concentration of inorganic elements was determined employing the PIXE technique, and 13 inorganic elements were detected. Using CG/MS nicotine amounts present were 1.56 mg/g dry tobacco leaf powder. Due to the observed genotoxicity in V79 cells, more investigations are needed to protect the health of tobacco workers exposed daily to this complex mixture of toxic substances present in dry tobacco leaves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiana Dalberto
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, Postgraduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Applied to Health, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Caroline Cardoso Nicolau
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, Postgraduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Applied to Health, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Melissa Rosa De Sousa
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, Postgraduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Applied to Health, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Ana Letícia Hilário Garcia
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, Postgraduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Applied to Health, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Boaretto
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, Postgraduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Applied to Health, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Nascimento Picada
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, Postgraduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Applied to Health, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Paola Chytry
- Ion Implantation Laboratory, Institute of Physics, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Johnny Ferraz Dias
- Ion Implantation Laboratory, Institute of Physics, Federal University of Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Cleverson Costa Feistel
- Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Laboratory. Postgraduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Applied to Health, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Barros Falcão Ferraz
- Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Laboratory. Postgraduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Applied to Health, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Ivana Grivicich
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology. Postgraduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Applied to Health, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
| | - Juliana Da Silva
- Laboratory of Genetic Toxicology, Postgraduate Program in Molecular and Cell Biology Applied to Health, Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA), Canoas, RS, Brazil
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Zagà V, Dell'Omo M, Murgia N, Mura M. Tobacco Worker's Lung: A Neglected Subtype of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis. Lung 2021; 199:13-19. [PMID: 33427972 DOI: 10.1007/s00408-020-00416-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Tobacco worker's lung (TWL) is a type of hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) affecting workers exposed to tobacco leaves and molds in the humidified environment of the tobacco production industry. Limited epidemiological data point to a prevalence of TWL that is not negligible and probably underestimated. As in other types of HP, an acute vs. chronic presentation depends on the pattern of the exposure. Therefore, the clinical presentation can vary from an acute influenza-like syndrome, mostly self-limiting with the removal of the exposure, to an insidious onset of cough, exertional dyspnea, fatigue and weight loss in chronic presentations, where fibrotic changes may be observed. The main treatment strategy is the removal of the exposure to tobacco dust and molds, while the main aim of corticosteroid therapy is to reduce morbidity and prevent complications, namely the development of pulmonary fibrosis and permanent lung dysfunction. Despite the fact that TWL is quite well described, preventive measures are not usually adopted in the tobacco production industry. We present here a state of the art review of this neglected, preventable, but still prevalent and occupational-related subtype of HP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Zagà
- Italian Society of Tobaccology (SITAB), Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Dell'Omo
- Section of Occupational Medicine, Respiratory Diseases and Toxicology, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Nicola Murgia
- Section of Occupational Medicine, Respiratory Diseases and Toxicology, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Marco Mura
- Division of Respirology, Western University, London, ON, Canada. .,Victoria Hospital, London Health Science Centre, 800 Commissioners Road East, Room E6-203, London, ON, N6A 5W9, Canada.
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10
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Alderete E, Livaudais-Toman J, Kaplan C, Gregorich SE, Mejía R, Pérez-Stable EJ. Youth working in tobacco farming: effects on smoking behavior and association with health status. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:84. [PMID: 31959140 PMCID: PMC6971900 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8169-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cultivation of tobacco raises concerns about detrimental health and social consequences for youth, but tobacco producing countries only highlight economic benefits. We compared sociodemographic and health-related characteristics of school-age youth who worked and did not work in tobacco farming and assessed the effects on smoking behavior and health at 1 year. METHODS We used existing data collected in the province of Jujuy, Argentina where 3188 youth 13 to 17 years of age from a random middle school sample responded to longitudinal questionnaires in 2005 and 2006. Multivariate logistic regression models predicted association of tobacco farming work with health status and smoking behavior at 1 year. RESULTS 22.8% of youth in the tobacco growing areas of the province were involved in tobacco farming. The mean age of initiation to tobacco farming was 12.6 years. Youth working in farming had higher rates of fair or poor versus good or excellent self-perceived health (30.3% vs. 19.0%), having a serious injury (48.5% vs. 38.5%), being injured accidentally by someone else (7.5% vs. 4.6%), being assaulted (5.5% vs. 2.6%), and being poisoned by exposure to chemicals (2.5% vs. 0.7%). Youth working in tobacco farming also had higher prevalence of ever (67.9% vs. 55.2%), current (48.0% vs. 32.6%) and established smoking (17.8% vs. 9.9%). In multivariate logistic regression models tobacco farming in 2005 was associated with significant increased reporting of serious injury (OR = 1.4; 95%CI 1.1-2.0), accidental injury by someone else (OR = 1.5; 95% 1.0-2.1), assault (OR = 2.2; 95% CI 1.3-3.8), and poisoning by exposure to chemicals (OR = 2.5; 95% CI 1.2-5.4). Tobacco farming in 2005 predicted established smoking 1 year later (OR = 1.5; 95% CI 1.1-2.0). CONCLUSION Youth who work in tobacco faming face a challenging burden of adversities that increase their vulnerability. Risk assessments should guide public policies to protect underage youth working in tobacco farming. (298 words).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethel Alderete
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Regional (ICTER), UE CISOR Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas/Universidad Nacional de Jujuy, San Salvador de Jujuy, Argentina
| | - Jennifer Livaudais-Toman
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Celia Kaplan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Steven E Gregorich
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Raúl Mejía
- Centro de Estudios de Estado y Sociedad (CEDES), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Eliseo J Pérez-Stable
- Division of Intramural Research, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, and Office of the Director, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, 6707 Democracy Boulevard, Suite 800, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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Lopes CVA, Albuquerque GSCD. Agrotóxicos e seus impactos na saúde humana e ambiental: uma revisão sistemática. SAÚDE EM DEBATE 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/0103-1104201811714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Atualmente, o Brasil é o maior consumidor de agrotóxicos do mundo. Diversos estudos comprovam os malefícios para a saúde humana e ambiental da exposição aos agrotóxicos. Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática no período de 2011 a 2017 acerca desse tema em bases de dados científicos. Foram incluídos 116 estudos que demonstraram o impacto negativo para a saúde humana e ambiental. É essencial a realização de estudos sobre os efeitos da exposição crônica e simultânea a diversos agrotóxicos, além de estudos sobre os nexos de determinação estrutural do uso dos venenos e suas consequências.
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12
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Nascimento SN, Göethel G, Baierle M, Barth A, Brucker N, Charão MF, Moro AM, Gauer B, Sauer E, Durgante J, Arbo MD, Thiesen FV, Pierre TDS, Gioda A, Moresco R, Garcia SC. Environmental exposure and effects on health of children from a tobacco-producing region. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:2851-2865. [PMID: 27838906 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-8071-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Children may be environmentally exposed to several hazards. In order to evaluate the health of children living in a tobacco-producing region, different biomarkers of exposure and effect, as well as hematological parameters, were evaluated. Biomarkers of exposure to the following xenobiotics were assessed: pesticides, nicotine, toxic elements, and organic solvents. Oxidative damage markers malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyls (PCO), vitamin C, microalbuminuria (mALB) levels, and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) activity were also evaluated. Peripheral blood samples and urine were collected from 40 children (6-12 years), at two different crop periods: in the beginning of pesticide applications (period 1) and in the leaf harvest (period 2). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test for paired data was used to evaluate the differences between both periods. Biomarkers of exposure cotinine in urine and blood chromium (Cr) levels were increased in period 1 when compared to period 2. Moreover, a significant reduced plasmatic activity of butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) was observed in period 2 in relation to period 1. Blood Cr levels were above the recommended by WHO in both evaluations. The biomarkers MDA and PCO as well as the kidney dysfunction biomarker, mALB, presented levels significantly increased in period 1. Additionally, decreased lymphocytes and increased basophils were also observed. Cotinine was positively associated with PCO, and Cr was positively associated with PCO and MDA. The increased Cr levels were associated with decreased lymphocytes and increased basophils. Our findings demonstrate that children environmentally exposed to xenobiotics in rural area may present early kidney dysfunction, hematological alterations, as well as lipid and protein damages, associated with co-exposure to different xenobiotics involved in tobacco cultivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina N Nascimento
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Göethel
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Marília Baierle
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Anelise Barth
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Natália Brucker
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Mariele F Charão
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
- Institute of Health Sciences, Feevale University, Novo Hamburgo, RS, Brazil
| | - Angela M Moro
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Bruna Gauer
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Elisa Sauer
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Juliano Durgante
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Marcelo D Arbo
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Flavia V Thiesen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Tatiana D Saint' Pierre
- Department of Chemistry, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Adriana Gioda
- Department of Chemistry, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rafael Moresco
- Laboratory of Clinical Biochemistry, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Solange Cristina Garcia
- Laboratory of Toxicology (LATOX), Department of Analyses, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Ipiranga 2752, Santa Cecília, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP: 90610-000, Brazil.
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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