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Scarpa C, Bacciu V, Ascoli D, Costa-Saura JM, Salis M, Sirca C, Marchetti M, Spano D. Estimating annual GHG and particulate matter emissions from rural and forest fires based on an integrated modelling approach. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 907:167960. [PMID: 37865246 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Rural and forest fires represent one of the most significant sources of emissions in the atmosphere of trace gases and aerosol particles, which significantly impact carbon budget, air quality, and human health. This paper aims to illustrate an integrated modelling approach combining spatial and non-spatial inputs to provide and enhance the estimation of GHG and particulate matter emissions from surface fires using Italy as a case study over the period 2007-2017. Three main improvements characterize the approach proposed in this work: (i) the collection and development of comprehensive and accurate data inputs related to burned area; (ii) the use of the most recent data on fuel type and load; and (iii) the modelling application to estimate fuel moisture, burning efficiency, and fuel consumption considering meteorological factors and combustion phases. On average, Italy's GHG and particulate matter emissions were 2621 Gg yr-1, ranging from a minimum of 772 Gg yr-1 in 2013 to a maximum of 7020 Gg yr-1 in 2007. Emissions from fire disturbances in broadleaf forests, shrublands, and agricultural fuel types account for about 76 % of the total. Results were compared with global and national inventories and showed good agreement, especially considering CO2 and particulate matter. The approach of this study added confidence in emission estimates, and the results can be utilized in decision support systems to address air quality management and fire impact mitigation policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Scarpa
- National Research Council, Institute of BioEconomy (CNR-IBE), 07100 Sassari, Italy.
| | - Valentina Bacciu
- National Research Council, Institute of BioEconomy (CNR-IBE), 07100 Sassari, Italy; EuroMediterranean Center on Climate Change (CMCC) Foundation, Impact on Agriculture, Forest, and Ecosystem Services (IAFES) Division, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
| | - Davide Ascoli
- University of Torino, Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy.
| | - Josè Maria Costa-Saura
- EuroMediterranean Center on Climate Change (CMCC) Foundation, Impact on Agriculture, Forest, and Ecosystem Services (IAFES) Division, 07100 Sassari, Italy; University of Sassari, Department of Agriculture Sciences, 07100 Sassari, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center, Palazzo Steri, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Michele Salis
- National Research Council, Institute of BioEconomy (CNR-IBE), 07100 Sassari, Italy.
| | - Costantino Sirca
- EuroMediterranean Center on Climate Change (CMCC) Foundation, Impact on Agriculture, Forest, and Ecosystem Services (IAFES) Division, 07100 Sassari, Italy; University of Sassari, Department of Agriculture Sciences, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
| | - Marco Marchetti
- University of Study of Molise, Department of Biosciences and Territory, 86090 Pesche, Italy; Fondazione Alberitalia ETS, Via Isola Capaccio 77, 47018 Santa Sofia, Italy.
| | - Donatella Spano
- EuroMediterranean Center on Climate Change (CMCC) Foundation, Impact on Agriculture, Forest, and Ecosystem Services (IAFES) Division, 07100 Sassari, Italy; University of Sassari, Department of Agriculture Sciences, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
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Bessa MJ, Sarmento B, Oliveira M, Rodrigues F. In vitro data for fire pollutants: contribution of studies using human cell models towards firefighters' occupational. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2023; 26:238-255. [PMID: 36883725 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2023.2187909] [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: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are the principal line of defense against fires, being at elevated risk of exposure to health-relevant pollutants released during fires and burning processes. Although many biomonitoring studies exist, only a limited number of human in vitro investigations in fire risk assessment are currently available. In vitro studies stand out as valuable tools to assess the toxicity mechanisms involved following exposure to fire pollutants at a cellular level. The aim of the present review was to contextualize existing in vitro studies using human cell models exposed to chemicals emitted from fire emissions and wood smoke and discuss the implications of the observed toxic outcomes on adverse health effects detected in firefighters. Most of the reported in vitro investigations focused on monocultures respiratory models and exposure to particulate matter (PM) extracts collected from fire effluents. Overall, (1) a decrease in cellular viability, (2) enhanced oxidative stress, (3) increased pro-inflammatory cytokines levels and (4) elevated cell death frequencies were noted. However, limited information remains regarding the toxicity mechanisms initiated by firefighting activities. Hence, more studies employing advanced in vitro models and exposure systems using human cell lines are urgently needed taking into consideration different routes of exposure and health-related pollutants released from fires. Data are needed to establish and define firefighters' occupational exposure limits and to propose mitigation strategies to promote beneficial human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria João Bessa
- UNIPRO - Unidade de Investigação em Patologia e Reabilitação Oral, Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde (IUCS), CESPU, Gandra, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- UNIPRO - Unidade de Investigação em Patologia e Reabilitação Oral, Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde (IUCS), CESPU, Gandra, Portugal
- i3S - Institute for Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- INEB - Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, ISEP, Polytechnique of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Pendergrast C, Boyle T, Crockett AJ, Eston R, Johnston KN. Longitudinal lung function in urban firefighters: A group-based multi-trajectory modelling approach. Respirology 2023; 28:247-253. [PMID: 36180416 DOI: 10.1111/resp.14382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Urban firefighters are routinely exposed to both physical and chemical hazards that can negatively impact lung health, but it is unclear if firefighters experience accelerated decline in spirometry parameters due to chronic exposure and acute insults. This study aimed to describe sub-groups of firefighters with differing spirometry trajectories and examine the relationship between the identified trajectories and demographic, lifestyle and occupational characteristics. METHODS Data from six waves of the Respiratory Function Measurement and Surveillance for South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service Study (2007-2019) were used to identify spirometry parameter z-score trajectories, using group-based multi-trajectory modelling (GBMTM). Analysis of variance and chi-square statistics were used to assess trajectory group differences in baseline self-reported demographic, lifestyle and occupational characteristics. RESULTS In the 669 included firefighters, we identified five trajectories for the combination of Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second z-score (FEV1 z), Forced Vital Capacity z-score (FVCz) and the ratio of FEV1 and FVC z-score (FEV1 /FVCz). There were three stable trajectories of low, average and very high lung function and two declining trajectories of average and high lung function. Analysis of subgroup characteristics revealed no significant differences between expected and actual group proportions for the occupational characteristics of years of service and respiratory protection use. Significant differences were seen in respiratory health and body mass index. CONCLUSION GBMTM defined distinct, plausible spirometry trajectory sub-groups. Firefighter longitudinal spirometry trajectory group membership was associated with BMI and respiratory disease or symptoms but not with self-reported smoking history or occupational factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Pendergrast
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation in Health (IIMPACT) Research Concentration, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Terry Boyle
- Australian Centre for Precision Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alan J Crockett
- Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Roger Eston
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kylie N Johnston
- Innovation, Implementation and Clinical Translation in Health (IIMPACT) Research Concentration, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Rebuli ME, Stanley Lee A, Nurhussien L, Tahir UA, Sun WY, Kimple AJ, Ebert CS, Almond M, Jaspers I, Rice MB. Nasal biomarkers of immune function differ based on smoking and respiratory disease status. Physiol Rep 2023; 11:e15528. [PMID: 36780897 PMCID: PMC9925276 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory biomarkers have the potential to identify airway injury by revealing inflammatory processes within the respiratory tract. Currently, there are no respiratory biomarkers suitable for clinical use to identify patients that warrant further diagnostic work-up, counseling, and treatment for toxic inhalant exposures or chronic airway disease. Using a novel, noninvasive method of sampling the nasal epithelial lining fluid, we aimed to investigate if nasal biomarker patterns could distinguish healthy nonsmoking adults from active smokers and those with chronic upper and lower airway disease in this exploratory study. We compared 28 immune mediators from healthy nonsmoking adults (n = 32), former smokers with COPD (n = 22), chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) (n = 22), and smoking adults without airway disease (n = 13). Using ANOVA, multinomial logistic regressions, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we determined associations between immune mediators and each cohort. Six mediators (IL-7, IL-10, IL-13, IL-12p70, IL-15, and MCP-1) were lower among disease groups compared to healthy controls. Participants with lower levels of IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-13, and MCP-1 in the nasal fluid had a higher odds of being in the COPD or CRS group. The cluster analysis identified groups of mediators that correlated with disease status. Specifically, the cluster of IL-10, IL-12p70, and IL-13, was positively correlated with healthy and negatively correlated with COPD groups, and two clusters were correlated with active smoking. In this exploratory study, we preliminarily identified groups of nasal mucosal mediators that differed by airway disease and smoking status. Future prospective, age-matched studies that control for medication use are needed to validate these patterns and determine if nasosorption has diagnostic utility for upper and lower airway disease or injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan E. Rebuli
- Department of Pediatrics and Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung BiologyUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Anna Stanley Lee
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical CenterHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Lina Nurhussien
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical CenterHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Usman A. Tahir
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical CenterHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Wendy Y. Sun
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical CenterHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Adam J. Kimple
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck SurgeryUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Charles S. Ebert
- Department of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck SurgeryUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Martha Almond
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung BiologyUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Ilona Jaspers
- Department of Pediatrics and Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental MedicineUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung BiologyUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Mary B. Rice
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical CenterHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
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Barbosa JV, Farraia M, Branco PTBS, Alvim-Ferraz MCM, Martins FG, Annesi-Maesano I, Sousa SIV. The Effect of Fire Smoke Exposure on Firefighters' Lung Function: A Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16799. [PMID: 36554677 PMCID: PMC9779288 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are exposed to a range of harmful substances during firefighting. Exposure to fire smoke has been associated with a decrease in their lung function. However, the cause-effect relationship between those two factors is not yet demonstrated. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the potential associations between firefighters' occupational exposure and their lung function deterioration. Studies were identified from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Science Direct databases (August 1990-March 2021). The studies were included when reporting the lung function values of Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 s (FEV1) or Forced Vital Capacity (FVC). The meta-analyses were performed using the generic inverse variance in R software with a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis was used to determine if the lung function was influenced by a potential study effect or by the participants' characteristics. A total of 5562 participants from 24 studies were included. No significant difference was found between firefighters' predicted FEV1 from wildland, 97.64% (95% CI: 91.45-103.82%; I2 = 99%), and urban fires, 99.71% (95% CI: 96.75-102.67%; I2 = 98%). Similar results were found for the predicted FVC. Nevertheless, the mean values of firefighters' predicted lung function varied significantly among studies, suggesting many confounders, such as trials' design, statistical methods, methodologies applied, firefighters' daily exposure and career length, hindering an appropriate comparison between the studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana V. Barbosa
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Farraia
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro T. B. S. Branco
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Conceição M. Alvim-Ferraz
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando G. Martins
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Isabella Annesi-Maesano
- Desbrest Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health (IDESP), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Montpellier University, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | - Sofia I. V. Sousa
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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Orysiak J, Młynarczyk M, Piec R, Jakubiak A. Lifestyle and environmental factors may induce airway and systemic inflammation in firefighters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:73741-73768. [PMID: 36094704 PMCID: PMC9465149 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22479-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Health status depends on multiple genetic and non-genetic factors. Nonheritable factors (such as lifestyle and environmental factors) have stronger impact on immune responses than genetic factors. Firefighters work is associated with exposure to air pollution and heat stress, as well as: extreme physical effort, mental stress, or a changed circadian rhythm, among others. All these factors can contribute to both, short-term and long-term impairment of the physical and mental health of firefighters. Increased levels of some inflammatory markers, such as pro-inflammatory cytokines or C-reactive protein (CRP) have been observed in firefighters, which can lead to local, acute inflammation that promotes a systemic inflammatory response. It is worth emphasizing that inflammation is one of the main hallmarks of cancer and also plays a key role in the development of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. This article presents possible causes of the development of an inflammatory reaction in firefighters, with particular emphasis on airway inflammation caused by smoke exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Orysiak
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Czerniakowska St. 16, 00-701, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Młynarczyk
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Czerniakowska St. 16, 00-701, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Robert Piec
- Institute of Internal Security, The Main School of Fire Service, Słowackiego St. 52/54, 01-629, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Jakubiak
- Department of Heart Failure and Cardiac Rehabilitation, Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki and Wigury St. 61, 02-091, Warsaw, Poland
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Observations of Delayed Changes in Respiratory Function among Allergy Clinic Patients Exposed to Wildfire Smoke. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031241. [PMID: 35162264 PMCID: PMC8835059 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Wildfires have increased in frequency and magnitude and pose a significant public health challenge. The principal objective of this study was to assess the impact of wildfire smoke on respiratory peak flow performance of patients exposed to two different wildfire events. This longitudinal study utilized an observational approach and a cohort study design with a patient-level clinical dataset from a local outpatient allergy clinic (n = 842). Meteorological data from a local weather station served as a proxy for smoke exposure because air quality measurements were not available. This study found that there were decreases in respiratory peak flow among allergy clinic patients one year after each wildfire event. For every one percent increase in wind blowing from the fire towards the community, there was, on average, a 2.21 L per minute decrease in respiratory peak flow. This study observed an effect on respiratory peak flow performance among patients at a local allergy clinic one year after suspected exposure to wildfire smoke. There are likely multiple reasons for the observation of this relationship, including the possibility that wildfire smoke may enhance allergic sensitization to other allergens or that wildfire smoke itself may elicit a delayed immune response.
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Pena A, Duarte S, Pereira AMPT, Silva LJG, Laranjeiro CSM, Oliveira M, Lino C, Morais S. Human Biomonitoring of Selected Hazardous Compounds in Portugal: Part I-Lessons Learned on Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Metals, Metalloids, and Pesticides. Molecules 2021; 27:242. [PMID: 35011472 PMCID: PMC8746698 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human biomonitoring (HBM) data provide information on total exposure regardless of the route and sources of exposure. HBM studies have been applied to quantify human exposure to contaminants and environmental/occupational pollutants by determining the parent compounds, their metabolites or even their reaction products in biological matrices. HBM studies performed among the Portuguese population are disperse and limited. To overcome this knowledge gap, this review gathers, for the first time, the published Portuguese HBM information concerning polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), metals, metalloids, and pesticides concentrations detected in the urine, serum, milk, hair, and nails of different groups of the Portuguese population. This integrative insight of available HBM data allows the analysis of the main determinants and patterns of exposure of the Portuguese population to these selected hazardous compounds, as well as assessment of the potential health risks. Identification of the main difficulties and challenges of HBM through analysis of the enrolled studies was also an aim. Ultimately, this study aimed to support national and European policies promoting human health and summarizes the most important outcomes and lessons learned through the HBM studies carried out in Portugal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelina Pena
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Bromatology and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Polo III, Azinhaga de Sta Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.P.); (A.M.P.T.P.); (L.J.G.S.); (C.S.M.L.); (C.L.)
| | - Sofia Duarte
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Bromatology and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Polo III, Azinhaga de Sta Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.P.); (A.M.P.T.P.); (L.J.G.S.); (C.S.M.L.); (C.L.)
- Centro de Investigação Vasco da Gama-Departamento de Ciências Veterinárias, Escola Universitária Vasco da Gama, Av. José R. Sousa Fernandes, Campus Universitário-Bloco B, 3020-210 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - André M. P. T. Pereira
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Bromatology and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Polo III, Azinhaga de Sta Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.P.); (A.M.P.T.P.); (L.J.G.S.); (C.S.M.L.); (C.L.)
| | - Liliana J. G. Silva
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Bromatology and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Polo III, Azinhaga de Sta Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.P.); (A.M.P.T.P.); (L.J.G.S.); (C.S.M.L.); (C.L.)
| | - Célia S. M. Laranjeiro
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Bromatology and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Polo III, Azinhaga de Sta Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.P.); (A.M.P.T.P.); (L.J.G.S.); (C.S.M.L.); (C.L.)
| | - Marta Oliveira
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal; (M.O.); (S.M.)
| | - Celeste Lino
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Bromatology and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Polo III, Azinhaga de Sta Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.P.); (A.M.P.T.P.); (L.J.G.S.); (C.S.M.L.); (C.L.)
| | - Simone Morais
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal; (M.O.); (S.M.)
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Kabir T, Schofield S, Fitzgerald B, Cannon J, Szram J, Feary J. Assessment and outcomes of firefighter applicants with possible asthma. Occup Med (Lond) 2021; 72:118-124. [PMID: 34919722 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqab162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Firefighter applicants (FFAs) with a history of asthma may be refused entry to the fire service because of potentially putting themselves and others at risk. AIMS We undertook a service evaluation to identify respiratory and employment outcomes of FFAs with a history of asthma who had undergone additional respiratory assessment at our specialist occupational lung disease clinic during 2005-19. METHODS We reviewed FFA medical records and categorized them as having either no current asthma or definite/probable asthma at the time of clinic assessment. 'No current asthma' was defined as negative non-specific bronchial hyper-responsiveness (BHR) to histamine/methacholine, and no symptoms or treatment within the 2 years before clinic. 'Definite/probable current asthma' was defined as either positive BHR, or negative BHR with symptoms and/or treatment within the previous 2 years. Around 1 year later, we contacted FFAs to enquire about their application outcome and current respiratory symptoms. RESULTS Data were available on 116 applicants; of whom, 45% (n = 52) had definite/probable current asthma and were significantly more likely to be older, atopic to common aeroallergens, report atopic disease and have a lower forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity ratio compared with applicants with no current asthma. Only two individuals' applications were rejected due to asthma. At follow-up, just 2 (2%) of the 90 operational firefighters reported any recent trouble with asthma. CONCLUSIONS A history of asthma alone is not sufficient to determine current asthma in FFAs. Even with a diagnosis of current asthma, FFAs are mostly successful in their application to join the fire service.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kabir
- National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Emmanuel Kaye Building, 1b Manresa Road, London SW3 6LR, UK
| | - S Schofield
- National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Emmanuel Kaye Building, 1b Manresa Road, London SW3 6LR, UK
| | - B Fitzgerald
- Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, part of Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - J Cannon
- Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, part of Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - J Szram
- Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, part of Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - J Feary
- National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Emmanuel Kaye Building, 1b Manresa Road, London SW3 6LR, UK.,Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, part of Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6NP, UK
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Abstract
Firefighters are the professional force at high risk of suffering potential health consequences due to their chronic exposure to numerous hazardous pollutants during firefighting activities. Unfortunately, determination of fire emission exposure is very challenging. As such, the identification and development of appropriate biomarkers is critical in meeting this need. This chapter presents a critical review of current information related with the use of different urinary biomarkers of effect and exposure in occupationally exposed firefighters over the last 25 years. Evidence suggests that urinary isoprostanes and mutagenicity testing are promising biomarkers of early oxidative stress. Data indicate that firefighters participating in firefighting activities present with increased urinary biomarkers of exposure. These include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, heavy metals and metalloids, organo-chlorine and -phosphorus compounds, environmental phenols, phthalates, benzene and toluene. More studies are urgently needed to better evaluate firefighter occupational safety and health and to support the implementation of preventive measures and mitigation strategies to promote the protection of this chronically exposed group of workers.
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Barros B, Oliveira M, Morais S. Firefighters' occupational exposure: Contribution from biomarkers of effect to assess health risks. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 156:106704. [PMID: 34161906 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Firefighting is physically and physiologically exhausting besides encompassing exposure to toxic fire emissions. Biomonitoring studies from the past five years have been significantly contributing to characterize the occupational-related health effects in this group of professionals and to improve risk assessment. Therefore, this study gathers and critically discusses the most characterized biomarkers of effect (oxidative stress, DNA and protein damage, stress hormones, inflammation, and vascular, lung, and liver injury), including those potentially more promising to be explored in future studies, and their relation with health outcomes. Various studies proved an association between exposures to fire emissions and/or heat and significantly altered values of biomarkers of inflammation (soluble adhesion molecules, tumor necrosis factor, interleukins, and leucocyte count), vascular damage and tissue injury (pentraxin-3, vascular endothelial growth factor, and cardiac troponin T) in firefighting forces. Moreover, preliminary data of DNA damage in blood, urinary mutagenicity and 8-isoprostaglandin in exhaled breath condensate suggest that these biomarkers of oxidative stress should be further explored. However, most of the reported studies are based on cross-sectional designs, which limit full identification and characterization of the risk factors and their association with development of work-related diseases. Broader studies based on longitudinal designs and strongly supported by the analysis of several types of biomarkers in different biological fluids are further required to gain deeper insights into the firefighters occupational related health hazards and contribute to implementation of new or improved surveillance programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bela Barros
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto.
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Cherry N, Beach J, Galarneau JM. Are Inflammatory Markers an Indicator of Exposure or Effect in Firefighters Fighting a Devastating Wildfire? Follow-up of a Cohort in Alberta, Canada. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 65:635-648. [PMID: 33620067 PMCID: PMC8254513 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxaa142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The Fort McMurray fire in Alberta, Canada, devastated the townsite in May 2016. First responders were heavily exposed to smoke particles. Blood samples taken from firefighters in May and August/September 2016 were used to measure concentrations of inflammatory markers in plasma and the relation of these markers to exposures and respiratory ill-health. Methods Blood samples were drawn from firefighters from two fire services, who also completed questionnaires about tasks and exposures during their deployment to the fire and about respiratory symptoms. Plasma was analysed for 42 inflammatory markers in a multiplex assay. At Service A, samples were collected twice, within 19 days of the start of the fire (early sample) and again 14–18 weeks later (late sample). At Service B, only late samples were collected, at 16–20 weeks. Principal component (PC) scores were extracted from markers in plasma from the early and late samples and, at both time periods, the first two components retained. PC scores were examined against estimated cumulative exposures to PM2.5 particles, self-rated physical stressors during the fire, and time since the last deployment to an active fire. The relation of component scores and exposure estimates to respiratory health were examined, using self-ratings at the time of the blood draw, a validated respiratory screening questionnaire (the European Community Respiratory Health Survey [ECRHS]) some 30 months after the fire, and clinical assessments in 2019–2020. Results Repeat blood samples were available for 68 non-smoking first responders from Service A and late samples from 160 non-smokers from both services. In the 68 with two samples, marker concentrations decreased from early to late samples for all but 3 of the 42 markers, significantly so (P < 0.05) for 25. The first component extracted from the early samples (C1E) was unrelated to respiratory symptoms but the second (C2E) was weakly related to increased cough (P = 0.079) and breathlessness (P = 0.068) and a lower forced expiratory volume in one second/forced expiratory capacity (FEV1/FVC)(β = –1.63, 95% CI –3.11 to –0.14) P = 0.032. The first PC at 14–20 weeks (C1L) was unrelated to exposure or respiratory health but the second PC (C2L) from these late samples, drawn from both fire services, related to cumulative PM2.5 exposure. In a multivariate model, clustered within fire service, cumulative exposure (β = 0.19, 95% CI 0.09–0.30), dehydration (β = 0.65, 95% CI 0.04–1.27) and time since last deployed to a fire (β = –0.04, 95% CI –0.06 to –0.01) were all related to the C2L score. This score was also associated with respiratory symptoms of wheezing, chest tightness, and breathlessness at the time of the blood draw but not to symptoms at later follow-up. However, apart from the lower FEV1/FVC at 15–19 days, the marker scores did not add to regression models that also included estimated cumulative PM2.5 exposure. Conclusions Concentrations of persisting inflammatory markers in the plasma of firefighters deployed to a devastating fire decreased with time and were related to estimates of exposure. Although not a powerful independent predictor of later respiratory ill-health, they may serve as an indicator of previous high exposure in the absence of contemporary exposure estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Cherry
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta Edmonton, Canada
| | - Jeremy Beach
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta Edmonton, Canada
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to determine the inflammatory response to a 12-hour wildfire suppression shift, in firefighters attending the "Black Saturday" natural disaster. METHODS Thirty-eight male volunteer firefighters provided venous blood samples before and after a 12-hour firefighting shift. Pre- to post-shift changes in pro-inflammatory (Interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-12P70, granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor [GM-CSF], tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α], interferon-gamma [IFNγ]), and anti-inflammatory (IL-4, IL-5, IL-7, IL-10, IL-13) cytokines were measured with paired sample t tests, or Wilcoxon t tests for non-parametric data. RESULTS Interleukin (IL)-6 (P = 0.003) and IL-8 (P = 0.017) were significantly increased following 12-hours of wildfire suppression. There was also a significant decrease in IL-10 (P = 0.021). CONCLUSIONS The observed acute inflammatory response may have resulted from multiple stressors including physical exertion, thermal strain, or smoke inhalation experienced during the shift, and may be a necessary response for the body to adapt to stressor exposure.
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Maloney SR, Udasin IG, Black TM, Shah NN, Steinberg MB, Pratt ME, Graber JM. Perceived Health Risks Among Firefighters; The New Jersey Firefighter Health Survey. J Occup Environ Med 2021; 63:317-321. [PMID: 33769397 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is a growing literature on the risk of chronic disease among firefighters, including cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer. However there is little information on firefighter's perception thereof. METHODS Firefighters attending a union convention in New Jersey completed a survey with four domains: firefighting experience; perceived additional risk for chronic diseases (six-point Likert scale); cancer screening history; demographics, and risk behaviors. RESULTS Among 167 enrolled firefighters, all were men and 86.6% active career. Median perceived risk ranged from high risk (colon, hematologic, breast, prostate, and testicular cancers) to very high risk (CVD, pulmonary diseases, all cancers, lung and oral cancer). CONCLUSIONS NJ Firefighters attributed considerable additional risk to acquiring chronic disease as a result of their firefighting activities. Understanding firefighter perceptions of their own morbidity and mortality will help develop future firefighter preparatory programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean R Maloney
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute - Clinical Research and Occupational Medicine (Dr Maloney, Dr Udasin, Ms Black, Dr Steinberg, Dr Pratt, Dr Graber); Rutgers School of Public Health (Dr Udasin, Mr Shah, Dr Graber); Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Division of General Internal Medicine (Dr Steinberg), Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Brunswick; RWJBarnabas Health - Jersey City (Dr Maloney), New Jersey
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Oliveira M, Costa S, Vaz J, Fernandes A, Slezakova K, Delerue-Matos C, Teixeira JP, Carmo Pereira M, Morais S. Firefighters exposure to fire emissions: Impact on levels of biomarkers of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and genotoxic/oxidative-effects. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 383:121179. [PMID: 31522064 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.121179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters represent one of the riskiest occupations, yet due to the logistic reasons, the respective exposure assessment is one of the most challenging. Thus, this work assessed the impact of firefighting activities on levels of urinary monohydroxyl-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OHPAHs; 1-hydroxynaphthalene, 1-hydroxyacenaphthene, 2-hydroxyfluorene, 1-hydroxyphenanthrene, 1-hydroxypyrene, 3-hydroxybenzo(a)pyrene) and genotoxic/oxidative-effect biomarkers (basal DNA and oxidative DNA damage) of firefighters from eight firehouses. Cardiac frequency, blood pressure and arterial oxygen saturation were also monitored. OHPAHs were determined by liquid-chromatography with fluorescence detection, while genotoxic/oxidative-effect biomarkers were assessed by the comet assay. Concentrations of total OHPAHs were up to 340% higher (p ≤ 0.05) in (non-smoking and smoking) exposed workers than in control subjects (non-smoking and non-exposed to combat activities); the highest increments were observed for 1-hydroxynaphthalene and 1-hydroxyacenaphthene (82-88% of ∑OHPAHs), and for 2-hydroxyfluorene (5-15%). Levels of biomarker for oxidative stress were increased in non-smoking exposed workers than in control group (316%; p ≤ 0.001); inconclusive results were found for DNA damage. Positive correlations were found between the cardiac frequency, ∑OHPAHs and the oxidative DNA damage of non-smoking (non-exposed and exposed) firefighters. Evidences were raised regarding the simultaneous use of these biomarkers for the surveillance of firefighters' health and to better estimate the potential short-term health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal; LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Solange Costa
- National Institute of Health, Environmental Health Department, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Josiana Vaz
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Adília Fernandes
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Klara Slezakova
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal; LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- National Institute of Health, Environmental Health Department, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Carmo Pereira
- LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal.
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Thapa N, Tomasi SE, Cox-Ganser JM, Nett RJ. Non-malignant respiratory disease among workers in the rubber manufacturing industry: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Ind Med 2019; 62:367-384. [PMID: 30775791 PMCID: PMC6693673 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-malignant respiratory disease (NMRD) cases have occurred among rubber manufacturing workers. We examined exposure to rubber manufacturing emissions as a risk factor for NMRD. METHODS From a systematic literature review, we identified case reports and assessed cross-sectional and mortality studies for strength of evidence of positive association (strong, intermediate, non-significant positive association, none) between exposure to rubber manufacturing emissions and NMRD-related morbidity and mortality, and conducted two meta-analyses. RESULTS We analyzed 62 articles. We identified 11 cases of NMRD. Nine (30%) of 30 cross-sectional studies and one (4%) of 26 mortality studies had strong evidence. The summary odds ratio and SMR for the cross-sectional and mortality meta-analyses were 3.83 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.28-6.51) and 0.90 (95%CI, 0.82-0.99), respectively. CONCLUSION Available evidence supports rubber manufacturing emissions as a potential risk factor for NMRD-related morbidity. Further investigations with longer follow-up periods and inclusion of short-tenured workers could further define risks for NMRD and identify prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirmala Thapa
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Suzanne E. Tomasi
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morgantown, West Virginia
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology and Laboratory Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jean M. Cox-Ganser
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Randall J. Nett
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morgantown, West Virginia
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Pedersen JE, Ugelvig Petersen K, Ebbehøj NE, Bonde JP, Hansen J. Risk of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a large historical cohort of Danish firefighters. Occup Environ Med 2018; 75:871-876. [PMID: 30323012 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2018-105234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Firefighters are exposed to numerous respiratory hazards, but large studies on the risk of pulmonary disease are scarce. The objective of this study was to examine incidence of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in a nationwide cohort of Danish firefighters. METHODS We used individual historical employment records on 11 968 Danish male firefighters primarily supplied by trade unions and fire agencies. Furthermore, we used the Supplementary Pension Fund Register to form an occupational reference group consisting of military employees. Information on respiratory incidence was retrieved from the nationwide Danish National Patient Registry. Age and calendar time standardised incidence ratio (SIR) and Poisson regression analyses (incidence rate ratio) were used for estimation of risks, including 95% CIs. RESULTS Compared with military employees, the overall age and calendar-time adjusted risk for asthma was significantly increased among full-time firefighters (SIR=1.58, 95% CI 1.32 to 1.88), but not among part-time/volunteer firefighters. Full-time firefighters' risk for asthma did not vary by duration of employment. No consistent evidence of an increased risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was detected. CONCLUSION Danish firefighters have an increased risk of asthma, but the causes, whether occupational or not, remain to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Elbæk Pedersen
- The Danish Cancer Society Research Center, The Danish Cancer Society, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kajsa Ugelvig Petersen
- The Danish Cancer Society Research Center, The Danish Cancer Society, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Erik Ebbehøj
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter Bonde
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Johnni Hansen
- The Danish Cancer Society Research Center, The Danish Cancer Society, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Gianniou N, Giannakopoulou C, Dima E, Kardara M, Katsaounou P, Tsakatikas A, Roussos C, Koulouris N, Rovina N. Acute effects of smoke exposure on airway and systemic inflammation in forest firefighters. J Asthma Allergy 2018; 11:81-88. [PMID: 29719412 PMCID: PMC5922237 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s136417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The aim of this study was to assess respiratory health and airway and systemic inflammation in professional forest firefighters post firefighting. Methods A total of 60 firefighters who participated in forest firefighting operations in Greece during 2008 were included in the study. A questionnaire consisting of symptoms and exposure, pulmonary function, atopy, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and markers of inflammation in induced sputum, serum, and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid was assessed. Results A measurable eosinophilic and neutrophilic inflammation was shown to be induced in the bronchial airways after acute exposure during forest firefighting. This was associated with increased respiratory symptoms from the upper and lower respiratory tract and pulmonary function impairment. Additionally, a measurable systemic inflammatory response was demonstrated. This study showed that acute exposure during forest firefighting significantly augments the intensity of airway and systemic inflammation in relation to the baseline inflammatory background due to chronic exposure. Conclusion The repeated acute exposures during firefighting augment the burden of chronic airway and systemic inflammation and may eventually lead to allergic sensitization of the airways and increased incidence of rhinitis and asthma after prolonged exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niki Gianniou
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Department, Evangelismos Hospital
| | | | - Efrossini Dima
- 1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, "Sotiria" Hospital; Athens Medical School
| | - Matina Kardara
- "M. Simos" Laboratories, Department of Critical Care and Pulmonary Services, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens
| | | | | | - Charis Roussos
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Department, Evangelismos Hospital.,1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, "Sotiria" Hospital; Athens Medical School.,"M. Simos" Laboratories, Department of Critical Care and Pulmonary Services, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens
| | - Nikolaos Koulouris
- 1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, "Sotiria" Hospital; Athens Medical School
| | - Nikoletta Rovina
- 1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, "Sotiria" Hospital; Athens Medical School
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Kim HW, Jung SM, Choi YS, Kim SA, Joung HY, Kim EJ, Kim HJ. Sleep Patterns of Firefighters with Shift Working Schedules in Seoul Metropolitan Area. SLEEP MEDICINE RESEARCH 2017. [DOI: 10.17241/smr.2017.00059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
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Oliveira M, Slezakova K, Magalhães CP, Fernandes A, Teixeira JP, Delerue-Matos C, do Carmo Pereira M, Morais S. Individual and cumulative impacts of fire emissions and tobacco consumption on wildland firefighters' total exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2017; 334:10-20. [PMID: 28380396 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2017.03.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Revised: 03/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
There is limited information about wildland firefighters' exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), being scarce studies that included the impact of tobacco consumption. Thus, this work evaluated the individual and cumulative impacts of firefighting activities and smoking on wildland firefighters' total exposure to PAHs. Six urinary PAH metabolites (1-hydroxynaphthalene (1OHNaph), 1-hydroxyacenaphthene (1OHAce), 2-hydroxyfluorene (2OHFlu), 1-hydroxyphenanthrene (1OHPhen), 1-hydroxypyrene (1OHPy), and 3-hydroxybenzo[a]pyrene (3OHB[a]P)) were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Firefighters from three fire stations were characterized and organized in three groups: non-smoking and non-exposed to fire emissions (NSNExp), smoking non-exposed (SNExp), and smoking exposed (SExp) individuals. 1OHNaph+1OHAce were the most predominant OH-PAHs (66-91% ∑OH-PAHs), followed by 2OHFlu (2.8-28%), 1OHPhen (1.3-7%), and 1OHPy (1.4-6%). 3OHB[a]P, the carcinogenicity PAH biomarker, was not detected. Regular consumption of tobacco increased 76-412% ∑OH-PAHs. Fire combat activities promoted significant increments of 158-551% ∑OH-PAHs. 2OHFlu was the most affected compound by firefighting activities (111-1068%), while 1OHNaph+1OHAce presented the more pronounced increments due to tobacco consumption (22-339%); 1OHPhen (76-176%) and 1OHPy (20-220%) were the least influenced ones. OH-PAH levels of SExp firefighters were significantly higher than in other groups, suggesting that these subjects may be more vulnerable to develop and/or aggravate diseases related with PAHs exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Klara Slezakova
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Adília Fernandes
- Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde Pública, Departamento de Saúde Ambiental, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; Universidade do Porto, Instituto de Saúde Pública, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria do Carmo Pereira
- LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
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