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Płotka-Wasylka J, Mulkiewicz E, Lis H, Godlewska K, Kurowska-Susdorf A, Sajid M, Lambropoulou D, Jatkowska N. Endocrine disrupting compounds in the baby's world - A harmful environment to the health of babies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 881:163350. [PMID: 37023800 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Globally, there has been a significant increase in awareness of the adverse effects of chemicals with known or suspected endocrine-acting properties on human health. Human exposure to endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) mainly occurs by ingestion and to some extent by inhalation and dermal uptake. Although it is difficult to assess the full impact of human exposure to EDCs, it is well known that timing of exposure is of importance and therefore infants are more vulnerable to EDCs and are at greater risk compared to adults. In this regard, infant safety and assessment of associations between prenatal exposure to EDCs and growth during infancy and childhood has been received considerable attention in the last years. Hence, the purpose of this review is to provide a current update on the evidence from biomonitoring studies on the exposure of infants to EDCs and a comprehensive view of the uptake, the mechanisms of action and biotransformation in baby/human body. Analytical methods used and concentration levels of EDCs in different biological matrices (e.g., placenta, cord plasma, amniotic fluid, breast milk, urine, and blood of pregnant women) are also discussed. Finally, key issues and recommendations were provided to avoid hazardous exposure to these chemicals, taking into account family and lifestyle factors related to this exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Płotka-Wasylka
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, 11/12 G. Narutowicza St., 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland; BioTechMed Center, Gdańsk University of Technology, 11/12 G. Narutowicza St., 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Ewa Mulkiewicz
- Department of Environmental Analysis, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, 63 Wita Stwosza Street, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Hanna Lis
- Department of Environmental Analysis, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, 63 Wita Stwosza Street, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Klaudia Godlewska
- Department of Environmental Analysis, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, 63 Wita Stwosza Street, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | | | - Muhammad Sajid
- Applied Research Center for Environment and Marine Studies, Research Institute, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dimitra Lambropoulou
- Department of Chemistry, Environmental Pollution Control Laboratory, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece; Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation (CIRI-AUTH), Balkan Center, Thessaloniki GR-57001, Greece
| | - Natalia Jatkowska
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, 11/12 G. Narutowicza St., 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland.
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Huang J, Zeng Z, Xu X, Tian Q, Zheng K, Huo X. Blood lead levels of children exposed to e-waste: a systematic review and meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:64860-64871. [PMID: 37097575 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27114-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Blood lead levels (BLLs) have been decreasing worldwide for decades. However, systematic reviews and quantitative syntheses of BLLs in electronic waste (e-waste)-exposed children are lacking. To summarize temporal trend of BLLs among children in e-waste-recycling areas. Fifty-one studies met the inclusion criteria and included participants from six countries. Meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model. Results showed that among e-waste-exposed children, the total geometric mean (GM) BLL was 7.54 μg/dL (95% CI: 6.77, 8.31). Children's BLLs displayed a decreasing temporal trend, from 11.77 μg/dL in phase I (2004-2006) to 4.63 μg/dL in phase V (2016-2018). Almost 95% of eligible studies found that children exposed to e-waste had significantly higher BLLs than reference groups. The difference of children's BLLs between the exposure group and the reference group was from 6.60 μg/dL (95% CI: 6.14, 7.05) in 2004 to 1.99 μg/dL (95% CI: 1.61, 2.36) in 2018. For subgroup analyses, except for Dhaka and Montevideo, the BLLs of children from Guiyu in the same survey year were higher than those of children from other regions. Our findings indicate that the gap between BLLs of children exposed to e-waste and those of reference group children is closing, and we appeal that the critical value for blood lead poisoning in children should be lowered in key e-waste-dismantling areas of developing countries, such as Guiyu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Huang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianwen Tian
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Keyang Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China.
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3
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Liu D, Shi Q, Liu C, Sun Q, Zeng X. Effects of Endocrine-Disrupting Heavy Metals on Human Health. TOXICS 2023; 11:toxics11040322. [PMID: 37112549 PMCID: PMC10147072 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11040322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals play an important endocrine-disrupting role in the health consequences. However, the endocrine-disrupting mechanism of heavy metals is unclear. There are long-term and low-level metal/element exposure scenes for the human body in real life. Therefore, animal models exposed to high doses of heavy metals may not provide key information to elucidate the underlying pathogeny of human diseases. This review collects current knowledge regarding the endocrine-disrupting roles of heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn), summarizes the possible molecular mechanisms of these endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and briefly evaluates their endocrine toxicity on animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongling Liu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, China;
| | - Qianhan Shi
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Q.S.); (C.L.); (Q.S.)
| | - Cuiqing Liu
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Q.S.); (C.L.); (Q.S.)
| | - Qinghua Sun
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Q.S.); (C.L.); (Q.S.)
| | - Xiang Zeng
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Hangzhou 310053, China; (Q.S.); (C.L.); (Q.S.)
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4
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Egwunye J, Cardoso BR, Braat S, Ha T, Hanieh S, Hare D, Duan AX, Doronila A, Tran T, Tuan T, Fisher J, Biggs BA. The role of fingernail selenium in the association between arsenic, lead and mercury and child development in rural Vietnam: a cross-sectional analysis. Br J Nutr 2022; 129:1-9. [PMID: 35535482 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114522001374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
As, Pb and Hg are common environmental contaminants in low- and middle-income countries. We investigated the association between child toxicant exposure and growth and development and determined if this association was mitigated by Se concentration. Toxicant concentrations in fingernail samples, anthropometry and Bayley's Scales of Infant Development, 3rd edition domains were assessed in 36-month-old children whose mothers had been part of a randomised controlled trial in rural Vietnam. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to estimate the effect of toxicant exposure on clinical outcomes with adjustments for potential confounders and interaction with fingernail Se concentration. We analysed 658 children who had data for at least one physical or developmental outcome, and at least one toxicant measurement, and each of the covariates. Fingernail As concentration was negatively associated with language (estimate per 10 % increase in As: -0·19, 95 % CI: (-0·32, -0·05)). Pb was negatively associated with cognition (estimate per 10 % increase in Pb: -0·08 (-0·15, -0·02)), language (estimate per 10 % increase in Pb: -0·18 (-0·28, -0·10)) and motor skills (estimate per 10 % increase in Pb: -0·12 (-0·24, 0·00)). Hg was negatively associated with cognition (estimate per 10 % increase in Hg: -0·48, (-0·72, -0·23)) and language (estimate per 10 % increase in Hg -0·51, (-0·88, -0·13)) when Se concentration was set at zero in the model. As Se concentration increased, the negative associations between Hg and both cognition and language scores were attenuated. There was no association between toxicant concentration and growth. As, Pb and Hg concentrations in fingernails of 3-year-old children were associated with lower child development scores. The negative association between Hg and neurological development was reduced in magnitude with increasing Se concentration. Se status should be considered when assessing heavy metal toxicants in children and their impact on neurodevelopmental outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Egwunye
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Barbara R Cardoso
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC3004, Australia
| | - Sabine Braat
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, 3000, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3052, Australia
| | - Tran Ha
- Research and Training Centre for Community Development, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Sarah Hanieh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Dominic Hare
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, 3000, Australia
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3050, Australia
| | - Alex Xiaofei Duan
- Melbourne TrACEES Platform and School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3010, Australia
| | - Augustine Doronila
- Melbourne TrACEES Platform and School of Chemistry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC3010, Australia
| | - Thach Tran
- Research and Training Centre for Community Development, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC3004, Australia
| | - Tran Tuan
- Research and Training Centre for Community Development, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Jane Fisher
- Global and Women's Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC3004, Australia
| | - Beverley-Ann Biggs
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Victoria, 3000, Australia
- The Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC3050, Australia
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5
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Ramírez V, Gálvez-Ontiveros Y, González-Domenech PJ, Baca MÁ, Rodrigo L, Rivas A. Role of endocrine disrupting chemicals in children's neurodevelopment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 203:111890. [PMID: 34418446 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Environmental stressors, like endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC), are considered important contributors to the increased rates of neurodevelopmental dysfunctions. Considering the cumulative research on adverse neurodevelopmental effects associated with prenatal exposure to EDC, the purpose of this study was to review the available limited literature about the effects of postnatal exposure to EDC on child neurodevelopment and behaviour. Despite widespread children's exposure to EDC, there are a limited number of epidemiological studies on the association of this exposure with neurodevelopmental disorders, in particular in the postnatal period. The available research suggests that postnatal EDC exposure is related to adverse neurobehavioral outcomes in children; however the underlying mechanisms of action remain unclear. Timing of exposure is a key factor determining potential neurodevelopmental consequences, hence studying the impact of multiple EDC co-exposure in different vulnerable life periods could guide the identification of sensitive subpopulations. Most of the reviewed studies did not take into account sex differences in the EDC effects on children neurodevelopment. We believe that the inclusion of sex in the study design should be considered as the role of EDC on children neurodevelopment are likely sex-specific and should be taken into consideration when determining susceptibility and potential mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Ramírez
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Yolanda Gálvez-Ontiveros
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Pablo José González-Domenech
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain; Department of Psychiatry, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | | | - Lourdes Rodrigo
- Department of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
| | - Ana Rivas
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
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6
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Parvez SM, Jahan F, Brune MN, Gorman JF, Rahman MJ, Carpenter D, Islam Z, Rahman M, Aich N, Knibbs LD, Sly PD. Health consequences of exposure to e-waste: an updated systematic review. Lancet Planet Health 2021; 5:e905-e920. [PMID: 34895498 PMCID: PMC8674120 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(21)00263-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste) contains numerous chemicals harmful to human and ecological health. To update a 2013 review assessing adverse human health consequences of exposure to e-waste, we systematically reviewed studies reporting effects on humans related to e-waste exposure. We searched EMBASE, PsycNET, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PubMed for articles published between Dec 18, 2012, and Jan 28, 2020, restricting our search to publications in English. Of the 5645 records identified, we included 70 studies that met the preset criteria. People living in e-waste exposed regions had significantly elevated levels of heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants. Children and pregnant women were especially susceptible during the critical periods of exposure that detrimentally affect diverse biological systems and organs. Elevated toxic chemicals negatively impact on neonatal growth indices and hormone level alterations in e-waste exposed populations. We recorded possible connections between chronic exposure to e-waste and DNA lesions, telomere attrition, inhibited vaccine responsiveness, elevated oxidative stress, and altered immune function. The existence of various toxic chemicals in e-waste recycling areas impose plausible adverse health outcomes. Novel cost-effective methods for safe recycling operations need to be employed in e-waste sites to ensure the health and safety of vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarker M Parvez
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Environmental Intervention Unit, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Farjana Jahan
- Environmental Intervention Unit, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Marie-Noel Brune
- Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julia F Gorman
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Musarrat J Rahman
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - David Carpenter
- School of Public Health, Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Zahir Islam
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Mahbubur Rahman
- Environmental Intervention Unit, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Nirupam Aich
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Luke D Knibbs
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter D Sly
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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7
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Huang W, Shi X, Wu K. Human Body Burden of Heavy Metals and Health Consequences of Pb Exposure in Guiyu, an E-Waste Recycling Town in China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312428. [PMID: 34886154 PMCID: PMC8657058 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Guiyu accommodates millions of tons of e-waste from overseas and domestic sources each year and is notorious for its e-waste dismantling industry. As a consequence, Guiyu has been described as "the world's most toxic place" and "junk town". Informal e-waste recycling activities have caused severe pollution to the local environment and are associated with extensive health problems to the residents. This review provides updated insights on the body burden of heavy metals derived from e-waste and health outcomes resulted from lead (Pb) exposure. The review identified that Guiyu has been highly contaminated by heavy metals, especially Pb. Excessive exposure to Pb has been associated with multi-system and long-term effects in neonates and children, covering nervous, cardiovascular, adaptive immune, and hematologic systems as well as chromosome and DNA damage. Our review indicates strong associations that emphasize the need to develop strong regulations for prevention of exposure and health consequences in Guiyu and similar sites around the world.
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8
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Dórea JG. Neurodevelopment and exposure to neurotoxic metal(loid)s in environments polluted by mining, metal scrapping and smelters, and e-waste recycling in low and middle-income countries. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 197:111124. [PMID: 33861977 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This review covers a wide body of literature to gain an understanding of the impacts of informal activities related to metal extraction (primary mining and recycling) on early life exposure to neurotoxicants and on neurodevelopment. In primary mining, gold extraction with Hg amalgamation is the main environmental cause of Hg pollution in most artisanal small-scale gold mining (ASGM) activities around the world. Nevertheless, in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), Pb disrupted from gold-related ores, mining, and artisanal cookware production are an important neurotoxicant that seriously contaminates the affected population, with devastating effects on children. In e-waste recycling settings, the range of neurotoxic substances that contaminate mothers and children is wider than in primary mining environments. Thus, Hg and Pb are major pre- and postnatal neurotoxicants affecting children in the informal metal extraction activities and SSA countries show the highest record of human contamination and of neurotoxic effects on children. There are additional sources of neurotoxic contamination from mining and metal processing activities (cyanide tailing in South America and SSA) and/or co-exposure to Hg-containing products such as cosmetics (soaps and Hg-based skin lightning creams in Africa) and pediatric Thimerosal-containing vaccines (TCVs, that breaks down to ethyl-mercury) in current use in middle and low income countries. However, the action of these neurotoxicants (per se or in combination) on children needs more attention and research. Studies show a negative association between biomarkers of all environmental metal(loid)s (As, Cd, Hg, Mn, and Pb) studied and neurodevelopment in young children. Sadly, in many unregulated activities, child labor is widely employed, thus presenting an additional occupational exposure. Children living in polluted environments related to metal processing are disproportionately exposed to a wide range of co-occurring neurotoxic substances. The review showed compelling evidence from highly representative parts of the world (Africa, Asia, and Latin America) that the studied neurotoxic substances negatively affected areas of the brain associated with language, memory and executive function, as well as psychosocial behavior. Protecting the environment and children from unregulated and highly polluting metal extraction and processing are inextricably intertwined and deserve urgent attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- José G Dórea
- Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, 70919-970, DF, Brazil.
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Zheng X, Xu X, Lu F, Wang Q, Zeng Z, Huo X. High serum IgG subclass concentrations in children with e-waste Pb and Cd exposure. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 764:142806. [PMID: 33757236 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the predominant component of the humoral immune system. Epidemiological studies have shown that lead (Pb) or cadmium (Cd) exposure is associated with changes in human IgG levels, and alteration of IgG subclass production can be induced by differential modulation of Th1 and Th2 cytokines caused by Pb or Cd exposure. However, no study has focused on the adverse effects of Pb and Cd co-exposure on IgG subclass production by regulating Th1/Th2 cytokines in children living in electronic waste (e-waste) areas. This study aims to analyze the associations among Pb and Cd in blood, Th1/Th2 cytokines, and IgG subclasses in serum from children. A total of 181 healthy, 2- to 7-year-old children were examined. Of them, 104 were from Guiyu (e-waste exposed group), and the rest were from Haojiang (reference group) in China. Pb and Cd levels in whole blood, cytokines, and IgG subclasses in serum were determined. Exposed children had higher levels of blood Pb and Cd, serum IgG1, IgG1 + IgG2, serum Th1 cytokine interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and lower levels of the Th2 cytokine interleukin (IL)-13. Increased blood Pb levels were positively associated with serum levels of IFN-γ, and negatively associated with serum levels of IL-13. Adjusted linear regression analysis showed that serum levels of IL-13 were negatively associated with serum levels of IgG1 and IgG1 + IgG2. Mediation models indicated that IL-13 had significant mediating effects on the relationships between blood Pb levels and serum IgG1, as well as between blood Pb levels and serum IgG1 + IgG2. Increased blood Cd levels were positively associated with serum levels of IgG1. Our results show heavy metal (particularly Pb) exposure may affect IgG subclass production by regulating Th1/Th2 cytokines in exposed children, thus providing new evidence for a relationship between humoral immune function and environmental exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangbin Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Fangfang Lu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Qihua Wang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China.
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10
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Alao ME, Perin J, Brooks WA, Hossain L, Goswami D, Zaman K, Yunus M, Khan MA, Jahan Y, Ahmed D, Slavkovich V, Graziano J, Prosperi C, Higdon M, Deloria-Knoll M, O' Brien KL, George CM. Urinary arsenic is associated with wasting and underweight status in young children in rural Bangladesh. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 195:110025. [PMID: 32791251 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deficits in child growth are associated with poor cognitive outcomes and an increased risk for infection and mortality globally. One hundred forty million people are chronically exposed to arsenic from contaminated drinking water worldwide. While arsenic exposure has been associated with cognitive developmental delays in children, there is limited research on the association between arsenic exposure and growth deficits in young children. PURPOSE The objective of this study was to assess the association between chronic arsenic exposure and deficits in growth among children under 5 years in a rural setting in Bangladesh. METHODS Urinary arsenic measurements were collected from 465 children between the ages of 28 days-59 months in rural Matlab, Bangladesh, and analyzed by graphite furnace atomic absorption. Height and weight measurements were collected from children according to World Health Organization child growth standards. A z-score cutoff2 standard deviations below the mean was used to define stunting (height-for-age z-score), underweight (weight-for-age z-score), and wasting (weight-for-height z-score). RESULTS Children under 5 years with urinary arsenic concentrations in the third tertile (greater than 31 μg per liter (μg/L)) had a two times higher odds of being underweight after adjustment for age, creatinine, paternal education, breastfeeding, number of individuals using the same sleeping room, and physician-diagnosed pneumonia (Odds Ratio (OR): 2.29 (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.16, 4.52)). Children under 2 years of age had a two times higher odds of being wasted after adjustment for age, creatinine, paternal education, breastfeeding, number of individuals using the same sleeping room, and physician-diagnosed pneumonia (OR: 2.85 (95% CI: 1.18, 6.89)). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that arsenic exposure is associated with an increased odds of being wasted and underweight among young children in rural Bangladesh.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E Alao
- Department of International Health, Program in Global Disease Epidemiology and Control, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jamie Perin
- Department of International Health, Program in Global Disease Epidemiology and Control, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - W Abdullah Brooks
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Lokman Hossain
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Doli Goswami
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Khalequzzaman Zaman
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Yunus
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Alfazal Khan
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Yasmin Jahan
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Dilruba Ahmed
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Vesna Slavkovich
- Department of Environmental Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joseph Graziano
- Department of Environmental Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christine Prosperi
- Department of International Health, International Vaccine Access Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Melissa Higdon
- Department of International Health, International Vaccine Access Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Maria Deloria-Knoll
- Department of International Health, International Vaccine Access Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Katherine L O' Brien
- Department of International Health, International Vaccine Access Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christine Marie George
- Department of International Health, Program in Global Disease Epidemiology and Control, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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11
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Zeng X, Xu C, Xu X, Zhang Y, Huang Y, Huo X. Elevated lead levels in relation to low serum neuropeptide Y and adverse behavioral effects in preschool children with e-waste exposure. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 269:129380. [PMID: 33383249 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.129380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
As a neurotoxicant, lead (Pb) primarily affects central nervous system, and particularly impacts developing brain. This study explores the associations of blood Pb level and children's behavioral health. A total of 213 preschool children aged 3-7 years old were recruited from Guiyu (the e-waste-exposed area) and Haojiang (the reference area). The behavioral health of children was assessed using the 'behavioral symptoms' subscale of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Results showed that there was a significant difference in percent of children categorized as "at risk" between Guiyu (48.2%) and Haojiang (13.9%) (p < 0.001). The blood Pb level of children in Guiyu was significantly higher than those in Haojiang (median: 5.19 μg/dL vs. 3.42 μg/dL, p < 0.001). The serum Neuropeptide Y (NPY) was significantly lower in Guiyu children than those in Haojiang. Spearman correlation analyses demonstrated that blood Pb levels was negatively correlated with NPY (rs = -0.25, p < 0.001), but positively correlated with behavioral symptom scores; while serum NPY levels were negatively associated with behavioral symptom scores. Behavioral symptom scores were higher in children with blood Pb level ≥5.00 μg/dL (high) than those with blood Pb level < 5.00 μg/dL (low). After adjusting for confounding factors, children with lower NPY levels were at higher risk of having behavioral difficulties. In conclusion, Pb exposure in e-waste-exposed areas may lead to decrease in serum NPY and increase in the risk of children's behavioral problems. In addition, NPY may mediate the association between Pb exposure and behavioral difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Cheng Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, And Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, And Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, And Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, 9713, GZ, the Netherlands
| | - Yu Huang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, And Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, China.
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12
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Zeng X, Huo X, Xu X, Liu D, Wu W. E-waste lead exposure and children's health in China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 734:139286. [PMID: 32460072 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
China is one of the countries worldwide confronted with serious e-waste pollution and associated detrimental health effects, which has aroused public, academic and governmental concerns. Most local residents are exposed to hazardous substances such as lead (Pb) and other persistent organic pollutants because of informal e-waste recycling activities. This study reviews recent studies on children exposed to e-waste Pb in China focusing on health-related effects in children (e.g. growth and development, cardiovascular, immune, nervous, respiratory, reproductive, skeletal, and urinary systems) and evaluating the evidence for the association between e-waste Pb exposure and the children health outcomes in China. Children are one of most sensitive and vulnerable groups when facing e-waste Pb exposure. Previous data indicate that exposure to e-waste Pb has adverse effect on human health such as delayed and damaged physical and nervous development. It is the time to take effective measures, such as upgrading e-waste recycling technology, enhancing government policy guidance and support, and strengthening environmental protection and health awareness of the local inhabitants, to prevent the adverse effects of e-waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zeng
- School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China; Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China; Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Dongling Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Weidong Wu
- School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China
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13
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Soetrisno FN, Delgado-Saborit JM. Chronic exposure to heavy metals from informal e-waste recycling plants and children's attention, executive function and academic performance. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 717:137099. [PMID: 32092800 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.137099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
E-waste contains valuable metals that require appropriate waste management plans. However, rudimentary e-waste processing methods are a source of heavy metals environmental pollution. This study has characterised concentrations of heavy metals in soil (n = 10), water (n = 10) and hair (n = 44) of children in areas surrounding Jakarta (Indonesia), where e-waste is being or has been conducted in the past, and in a reference unexposed site. Chronic exposure to Mn, Pb, Hg, As and Cd and its associations with attention and executive function, characterised with the Trail Making Test (TMT), along with academic performance scores was conducted using multivariate regression analysis. Models were adjusted for age, gender, parental education, environmental tobacco smoke and residential traffic. Lead (3653 ± 3355 mg/kg), cadmium (3.4 ± 0.9 mg/kg) and mercury (15.2 ± 28.5 mg/kg) concentrations from soil and manganese concentrations in water (1.43 ± 0.64 mg/L) in the exposed sites were higher than current regulations. Heavy metal concentrations in hair of children living near e-waste facilities was higher than for children living in non-exposed areas (Pb: 0.155 ± 0.187 vs 0.0729 ± 0.08 mg/g; Mn: 0.130 ± 0.212 vs 0.018 ± 0.045 mg/g; Hg: 0.008 ± 0.0042 vs 0.002 ± 0.0011 mg/g) suggesting chronic exposure to heavy metals. Manganese exposure was associated with worse cognitive performance in the domains of attention (TMT-A score: 66 s, 95% CI 0.09, 132), executive function (TMT-B score: 105 s, 95% CI 11.5, 198) and social sciences (-29%, 95% CI -54, -4.7) (per unit of Mn in hair mg/g). These results suggest that informal e-waste activities contribute to local heavy metal soil contamination, and could be an important source of metal exposure to children living in the vicinity of these facilities with putative impacts on their cognitive performance. E-waste management regulation and remediation programmes should be implemented to reduce environmental pollution and associated health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fitria Nurbaidah Soetrisno
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; BP Berau Ltd, Tangguh LNG, West Papua, Indonesia
| | - Juana Maria Delgado-Saborit
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; ISGlobal Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona, Spain.
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14
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Zhang S, Huo X, Li M, Hou R, Cong X, Xu X. Oral antimicrobial activity weakened in children with electronic waste lead exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:14763-14770. [PMID: 32056098 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-08037-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Environmental lead (Pb) exposure can induce dysbacteriosis, impair oral health, and is associated with the development of dental caries. However, the mechanism is unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of Pb toxicity on oral antimicrobial activity in children in an e-waste area. Results showed higher blood Pb levels in e-waste-exposed group children, accompanied by decreased saliva SAG (salivary agglutinin) concentrations, increased peripheral WBC (white blood cell) counts and monocyte counts, and elevated peripheral monocyte percentage. LnPb (natural logarithmic transformation of blood Pb level) was negatively correlated with saliva SAG concentration, while positively correlated with peripheral monocyte percentage. Saliva SAG concentration played a complete mediating role in the correlation of LnPb to peripheral monocyte percentage. To our knowledge, this is the first study on the relationship of environmental Pb exposure and oral antimicrobial activity in children, showing that environmental Pb exposure may weaken oral antimicrobial activity through reducing saliva SAG concentration, which may raise the risk of oral dysbacteriosis and ultimately pathogen infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaocheng Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Minghui Li
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ruikun Hou
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaowei Cong
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
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15
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Patil RA, Ramakrishna S. A comprehensive analysis of e-waste legislation worldwide. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:14412-14431. [PMID: 32162230 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-07992-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The improper disposal and informal processing of e-waste have raised serious concerns for the environment and human health worldwide. A variety of legislative frameworks have been implemented to regulate e-waste management and upcycling in order to prevent environmental pollution and adopt resource reuse. Current e-waste legislation in different countries mostly include restrictions on e-waste import/export, regulations for recycling specific categories of e-waste, and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). This article serves as a comprehensive commentary to weigh the advantages and drawbacks of the different e-waste legislation enforced around the world. Though each country's e-waste legislation is enframed to address the country-specific problems, the legislation is mostly not holistic, leading to different management issues. A variety of e-waste management issues prevalent in most countries (with e-waste specific legislation) have been listed and categorized for better understanding of the status quo. Further, the article proposes a generic e-waste management model catering to requirements of countries around the world. The implementation of such a model for Europe, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Australia has been illustrated to show that the model can suit both developed and developing countries with contrasting e-waste management issues. The challenges that would arise in implementing an effective legislation and mechanisms for overcoming these challenges have also been discussed. To conclude, the role of governing bodies in tackling the future e-waste problems has been highlighted. In total, the article promotes scaling up the feasibility and efficacy of the implementation of e-waste policies across the globe in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashmi Anoop Patil
- Circular Economy Task Force, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Circular Economy Task Force, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117576, Singapore
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16
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Dórea JG. Environmental exposure to low-level lead (Pb) co-occurring with other neurotoxicants in early life and neurodevelopment of children. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 177:108641. [PMID: 31421445 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a worldwide environmental contaminant that even at low levels influences brain development and affects neurobehavior later in life; nevertheless it is only a small fraction of the neurotoxicant (NT) exposome. Exposure to environmental Pb concurrent with other NT substances is often the norm, but their joint effects are challenging to study during early life. The aim of this review is to integrate studies of Pb-containing NT mixtures during the early life and neurodevelopment outcomes of children. The Pb-containing NT mixtures that have been most studied involve other metals (Mn, Al, Hg, Cd), metalloids (As), halogen (F), and organo-halogen pollutants. Co-occurring Pb-associated exposures during pregnancy and lactation depend on the environmental sources and the metabolism and half-life of the specific NT contaminant; but offspring neurobehavioral outcomes are also influenced by social stressors. Nevertheless, Pb-associated effects from prenatal exposure portend a continued burden on measurable neurodevelopment; they thus favor increased neurological health issues, decrements in neurobehavioral tests and reductions in the quality of life. Neurobehavioral test outcomes measured in the first 1000 days showed Pb-associated negative outcomes were frequently noticed in infants (<6 months). In older (preschool and school) children studies showed more variations in NT mixtures, children's age, and sensitivity and/or specificity of neurobehavioral tests; these variations and choice of statistical model (individual NT stressor or collective effect of mixture) may explain inconsistencies. Multiple exposures to NT mixtures in children diagnosed with 'autism spectrum disorders' (ASD) and 'attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders' (ADHD), strongly suggest a Pb-associated effect. Mixture potency (number or associated NT components and respective concentrations) and time (duration and developmental stage) of exposure often showed a measurable impact on neurodevelopment; however, net effects, reversibility and/or predictability of delays are insufficiently studied and need urgent attention. Nevertheless, neurodevelopment delays can be prevented and/or attenuated if public health policies are implemented to protect the unborn and the young child.
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Affiliation(s)
- José G Dórea
- Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, 70919-970, DF, Brazil.
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17
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Orisakwe OE, Frazzoli C, Ilo CE, Oritsemuelebi B. Public Health Burden of E-waste in Africa. J Health Pollut 2019; 9:190610. [PMID: 31259086 PMCID: PMC6555250 DOI: 10.5696/2156-9614-9.22.190610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental impacts from informal e-waste recycling are increasing in Africa. E-waste handling and disposal exposes people to highly toxic cocktails of heavy metals, brominated flame retardants, non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PBDF) and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (DL-PCB). Most of these compounds are endocrine disrupters, and most are neuro- and immune-toxic as well. OBJECTIVES Informal e-waste recycling in African countries is a serious public health threat. The present paper reviews the extent of e-waste exposure in Africa and related impacts on people, animals and the environment. METHODS Four electronic databases (PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar) were searched for publications related to e-waste and human health in Africa. Search terms included 'e-waste in Africa', 'e-waste in developing nations', 'public health and e-waste', 'environment and e-waste', and 'e-waste and health'. DISCUSSION Elevated levels of e-waste pollutants in water, air, soil, dust, fish, vegetable, and human matrices (blood, urine, breast milk) indicate that not only are e-waste workers at risk from exposure to e-waste, but the general population and future generations as well. Headache, cough and chest pain, stomach discomfort, miscarriage, abnormal thyroid and reproductive function, reduction of gonadal hormone, and cancer are common complaints of those involved with the processing of e-waste. CONCLUSIONS The evidence presented from the reviewed studies illustrates the extent of the human health and environmental risks posed by e-waste in Africa. There is a need for a regulatory framework including specific legislation, infrastructure and protocols to safely recycle and dispose of e-waste in sub-Saharan African countries. COMPETING INTERESTS The authors declare no competing financial interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orish Ebere Orisakwe
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Chiara Frazzoli
- Department for Cardiovascular, Dysmetabolic and Aging-Associated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Cajetan Elochukwu Ilo
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Benjamin Oritsemuelebi
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
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Qin Q, Xu X, Dai Q, Ye K, Wang C, Huo X. Air pollution and body burden of persistent organic pollutants at an electronic waste recycling area of China. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2019; 41:93-123. [PMID: 30171476 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-018-0176-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This paper reviews the concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in atmosphere of an electronic waste (e-waste) recycling town, Guiyu, in Southeast China, focusing on polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). We assess the evidence for the association between air pollution and human body burden, to provide an indication of the severity of respiratory exposure. Compared with standards and available existing data for other areas, it clearly shows that four typical POPs, derived from recycling processes, lead to serious atmospheric pollution and heavy body burden. From published data, the estimated respiratory exposure doses of Guiyu adults and children, varied between 2.48-10.37 and 3.25-13.6 ng kg-1 body weight (bw) day-1 for PBDEs, 2.31-7.6 and 4.09-13.58 pg World Health Organization-Toxic Equivalent Quantity (WHO-TEQ) kg-1 bw day-1 for PCDD/Fs, 5.57 and 20.52 ng kg-1 bw day-1 for PCBs, and 8.59-50.01 and 31.64-184.14 ng kg-1 bw day-1 for PAHs, respectively. These results show that air pollution is more harmful to children. Furthermore, except for PBDEs, the hazard quotient (HQ) of the other three pollutants was rated more than 1 by respiratory exposure only, and all of them are at risk of carcinogenesis. So we speculate these pollutants enter the body mainly through air inhalation, making respiratory exposure may be more important than dietary exposure in the Guiyu e-waste recycling area. Effective management policies and remediation techniques are urgently needed to prevent the deterioration of ambient air quality in the e-waste recycling area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qilin Qin
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou, 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515063, Guangdong, China
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515063, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingyuan Dai
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou, 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Kai Ye
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou, 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Chenyang Wang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515063, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou, 511486, Guangdong, China.
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19
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Yan X, Zheng X, Wang M, Zheng J, Xu R, Zhuang X, Lin Y, Ren M. Urinary metabolites of phosphate flame retardants in workers occupied with e-waste recycling and incineration. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 200:569-575. [PMID: 29505929 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.02.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Urinary metabolites of phosphate flame retardants (PFRs) were determined in workers from an electronic waste (e-waste) recycling site and an incineration plant, in order to assess the PFR exposure risks of workers occupied with e-waste recycling and incineration. Bis(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (BCEP), bis(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BDCIPP), and diphenyl phosphate (DPHP) were the most frequently detected chemicals (82-93%). The median concentrations of BCEP, BDCIPP, and DPHP were 1.77, 0.23, and 0.70 ng/mL, and 1.44, 0.22, and 0.11 ng/mL in samples from the e-waste site and the incineration plant, respectively. Dibutyl phosphate (DBP) was detected in all samples from the incineration plant, with a median level of 0.30 ng/mL. The concentrations of BDCIPP (r = -0.31, p < 0.05) were significantly correlated with the occupational exposure time rather than age in workers from the e-waste site. Negative and significant correlations were also observed between the concentrations of BCEP (r = -0.42, p < 0.05), BDCIPP (r = -0.37, p < 0.05), and DPHP (r = -0.37, p < 0.05) and occupational exposure time rather than age in workers from the incineration plant. No gender differences were observed in levels of PFR metabolites in urine samples (p > 0.05). Concentrations of BDCIPP in female were significantly correlated with occupational exposure time (r = -0.507, p < 0.01). Concentrations of PFR metabolites in male were not significantly correlated with age or occupational exposure time (p > 0.05). Overall, the workers with occupational exposure to PFRs had different profiles of urinary PFR metabolites. The age, occupational exposure time, and gender seemed not to be main factors mediating the exposure to PFRs for workers occupied with e-waste recycling and incineration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yan
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Xiaobo Zheng
- College of Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Meihuan Wang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Jing Zheng
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
| | - Rongfa Xu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Xi Zhuang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Ying Lin
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Mingzhong Ren
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Guangzhou, 510655, China
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20
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Overview of Cadmium Thyroid Disrupting Effects and Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051501. [PMID: 29772829 PMCID: PMC5983752 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans are exposed to a significant number of chemicals that are suspected to produce disturbances in hormone homeostasis. Hence, in recent decades, there has been a growing interest in endocrine disruptive chemicals. One of the alleged thyroid disrupting substances is cadmium (Cd), a ubiquitous toxic metal shown to act as a thyroid disruptor and carcinogen in both animals and humans. Multiple PubMed searches with core keywords were performed to identify and evaluate appropriate studies which revealed literature suggesting evidence for the link between exposure to Cd and histological and metabolic changes in the thyroid gland. Furthermore, Cd influence on thyroid homeostasis at the peripheral level has also been hypothesized. Both in vivo and in vitro studies revealed that a Cd exposure at environmentally relevant concentrations results in biphasic Cd dose-thyroid response relationships. Development of thyroid tumors following exposure to Cd has been studied mainly using in vitro methodologies. In the thyroid, Cd has been shown to activate or stimulate the activity of various factors, leading to increased cell proliferation and a reduction in normal apoptotic activity. Evidence establishing the association between Cd and thyroid disruption remains ambiguous, with further studies needed to elucidate the issue and improve our understanding of Cd-mediated effects on the thyroid gland.
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