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Godínez-Pérez BM, Schilmann A, Lagunas-Martínez A, Escamilla-Núñez C, Burguete-García AI, Aguilar-Garduño C, Blanco-Muñoz J, Lacasaña M. Pesticide use patterns and their association with cytokine levels in Mexican flower workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2024; 97:291-302. [PMID: 38270603 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-023-02043-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Occupational exposure to pesticides is a known risk for disrupting cellular immune response in flower workers due to their use of multiple chemical products, poor work conditions, and inadequate protection. Recently, the analysis of pesticide use patterns has emerged as an alternative to studying exposure to mixtures of these products. This study aimed to evaluate the association between exposure to different patterns of pesticide use and the cytokine profile of flower workers in the State of Mexico and Morelos, Mexico. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out on a population of 108 flower workers. Serum levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 cytokines were analyzed by means of multiplex analysis, and TNF-α and IFN-γ using an ELISA test. Pesticide use patterns were generated by principal components analysis. RESULTS The analysis revealed that certain patterns of pesticide use, combining insecticides and fungicides, were associated with higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, particularly IL-6 and IFN-γ. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that pesticides may possess immunotoxic properties, contributing to increased inflammatory response. However, further comprehensive epidemiological studies are needed to establish a causal relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Astrid Schilmann
- National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Av. Universidad 655, 62130, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Alfredo Lagunas-Martínez
- National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Av. Universidad 655, 62130, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Consuelo Escamilla-Núñez
- National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Av. Universidad 655, 62130, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | | | | | - Julia Blanco-Muñoz
- National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Av. Universidad 655, 62130, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Marina Lacasaña
- Andalusian School of Public Health, Cuesta del Observatorio 4, 18011, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (Ibs.GRANADA), Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Andalusian Health and Environment Observatory (OSMAN), Granada, Spain
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Yan T, Yang S, Zhou X, Zhang C, Zhu X, Ma W, Tang S, Li J. Chronic kidney disease among greenhouse workers and field workers in China. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 302:134905. [PMID: 35561762 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Agricultural workers are at increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease of non-traditional etiology (CKDnt). The environment in solar greenhouse has high-intensity agricultural hazard factors. However, the association between solar greenhouse work and CKDnt remains unknown. OBJECTIVES We aimed to evaluate the relationship among solar greenhouse work, field work, and CKDnt risk, and to explore gender differences in CKDnt risk among solar greenhouse workers. METHODS Solar greenhouse workers and field workers were selected as the greenhouse worker and field worker groups in a cross-sectional study. Individuals with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of <60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 were defined as CKDnt patients. Binary logistic regression and generalized linear regression models were used to estimate the association among solar greenhouse workers, field workers and CKDnt. Furthermore, gender differences in CKDnt were also analyzed. RESULTS A total of 638 solar greenhouse workers and 231 field workers were included. The prevalence of CKDnt was 2.8% in the solar greenhouse workers and 0.4% in the field workers, and the prevalence of CKDnt was higher in female solar greenhouse workers than in males. The eGFR reduced by 20.0% (19.74 ml/min per 1.73 m2) in the greenhouse worker group compared with that in the field worker group (p < 0.05). Generalized linear analysis showed that the level of eGFR was lower in women than that in men after adjusting for parameters (β = -10.99 [-12.79, -9.10]). CONCLUSION Solar greenhouse workers may be at an increased risk of CKDnt, and women are more vulnerable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tenglong Yan
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Siwen Yang
- National Center for Occupational Safety and Health, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, Beijing 102308, China
| | - Xingfan Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Occupational Safety and Health, Institute of Urban Safety and Environmental Science, Beijing Academy of Science and Technology, Beijing 100054, China
| | - Chuyi Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Occupational Safety and Health, Institute of Urban Safety and Environmental Science, Beijing Academy of Science and Technology, Beijing 100054, China
| | - Xiaojun Zhu
- National Center for Occupational Safety and Health, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, Beijing 102308, China.
| | - Wenjun Ma
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shichuan Tang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Occupational Safety and Health, Institute of Urban Safety and Environmental Science, Beijing Academy of Science and Technology, Beijing 100054, China
| | - Jue Li
- Beijing Institute of Occupational Disease Prevention and Treatment, Beijing 100093, China
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Aguera RG, Freires CDS, Oliveira LOD, Monteiro LR, Lini RS, Romoli JCZ, Freire BM, Nerilo SB, Machinski Junior M, Batista BL, Mossini SAG. Risk evaluation of occupational exposure of southern Brazilian flower farmers to pesticides potentially leading to cholinesterase inhibition and metals exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 93:103874. [PMID: 35537679 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2022.103874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This work presents a frequency matched observational study comparing flower farmers exposed to pesticides and unexposed individuals as controls. All subjects were interviewed before plasma and urine collection. Manganese and Zinc were measured in theses samples by using dynamic reaction cell inductively coupled mass spectrometry. Cholinesterase activity was analyzed through spectrophotometry by using a modified version of the Ellman method. Seventy-eight percent of subjects reported occupational contact with pesticides, from which 37% reported exposure for over 9 years. Flower farms farmers had increased odds of having headache and irritability, respectively, by factors of 6.2 and 2.4 than the control subjects. While the odds of exposed subjects to have insomnia was smaller than control subjects by a factor of 0.34. Exposure to pesticides had a significant effect regarding the plasmatic plasma and urinary manganese levels and whole blood cholinesterase activity (p < 0.05). High levels of plasma and urinary manganese, as well as cholinesterase inhibition in whole blood, were evident in the flower farmers who participated in the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul Gomes Aguera
- Program in Biosciences and Pathophysiology, State University of Maringa, Av. Colombo, 5790, Maringá 87020-900, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Camila da Silva Freires
- Graduate in Pharmacy, State University of Maringa, Av. Colombo, 5790, Maringá 87020-900, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Luís Otavio de Oliveira
- Graduate in Biomedicine, State University of Maringa, Av. Colombo, 5790, Maringá 87020-900, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Lucilena Rebelo Monteiro
- Instituto de Pesquisas Energeticas e Nucleares, Av. Lineu Prestes, 2242, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil.
| | - Renata Sano Lini
- Program in Biosciences and Pathophysiology, State University of Maringa, Av. Colombo, 5790, Maringá 87020-900, Paraná, Brazil.
| | | | - Bruna Moreira Freire
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, ABC Federal University (UFABC), Avenue dos Estados nº 5001, Santo Andre, SP 09210-580, Brazil.
| | | | - Miguel Machinski Junior
- Program in Health Science, State University of Maringa, Av. Colombo, 5790, Maringá 87020-900, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Bruno Lemos Batista
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, ABC Federal University (UFABC), Avenue dos Estados nº 5001, Santo Andre, SP 09210-580, Brazil.
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Pereira PCG, Parente CET, Carvalho GO, Torres JPM, Meire RO, Dorneles PR, Malm O. A review on pesticides in flower production: A push to reduce human exposure and environmental contamination. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 289:117817. [PMID: 34333268 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In several countries, flower import regulations are restricted to food security, by establishing maximum residue limits (MRL) for pesticides in flower-based food products and biosafety, in order to limit the circulation of vectors, pests and exotic species across borders. In this context, the lack of limits on pesticides in flower-products for ornamental purposes can influence the pesticide overuse in production areas, as well as the transfer of contaminated products between countries. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to discuss possible adverse effects on human and environmental health of pesticides used in floriculture, evaluating regulations on the use of these pesticides in the main importing and flower-producing countries. This review included 92 documents. The use of 201 compounds was identified by interviews and analytical measurements. Among them, 93 are banned by the European Union (EU), although 46.3 % of these compounds have been identified in samples from European countries. Latin American countries have a large number of scientific publications on pesticides in flower production (n = 51), while the EU and China have less studies (n = 24) and the United States and Japan have no studies. Regarding adverse health effects, poorer neurobehavioral development, reproductive disorders, congenital malformations and genotoxicity have been reported for residents of flower production areas and workers throughout the flower production cycle. Studies including water samples show overuse of pesticides, while environmental impacts are related to water and air contamination, soil degradation and adverse effects on the reproduction and development of non-target organisms. This review points out that the absence of MRL for non-edible flowers can be crucial for the trade of contaminated products across borders, including pesticides banned in importing countries. Furthermore, setting limits on flowers could reduce the use of pesticides in producing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia C G Pereira
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho S/n, Bloco G, Sala 060, Subsolo, 21941-902, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Cláudio E T Parente
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho S/n, Bloco G, Sala 060, Subsolo, 21941-902, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Gabriel O Carvalho
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho S/n, Bloco G, Sala 060, Subsolo, 21941-902, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - João P M Torres
- Laboratório de Micropoluentes Jan Japenga, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho S/n, Bloco G, Sala 060, Subsolo, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Rodrigo O Meire
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho S/n, Bloco G, Sala 060, Subsolo, 21941-902, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Paulo R Dorneles
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho S/n, Bloco G, Sala 060, Subsolo, 21941-902, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Olaf Malm
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho S/n, Bloco G, Sala 060, Subsolo, 21941-902, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
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Norkaew S, Phanprasit W, Robson MG, Woskie S, Buckley BT. Estimating Occupational Exposure to VOCs, SVOCs, Particles and Participant Survey Reported Symptoms in Central Thailand Rice Farmers Using Multiple Sampling Techniques. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9288. [PMID: 34501879 PMCID: PMC8431457 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179288] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Thailand is known for its agricultural productivity and rice exportation. Most farms use small machines and manual labor, creating potential exposure to multiple health hazards. A cross-sectional study was conducted to measure pollutants liberated during preparation, pesticide application, and harvesting. Thirty rice farmers, mostly males from 41 to 50 years old, participated. The participant survey data showed that 53.3% of the respondents spent >2 h per crop on preparation, <1 h on pesticide application, and about 1-2 h harvesting; 86.7% of the respondents maintained and stored mechanical applicators at home, suggesting possible after-work exposures. Gloves, fabric masks, boots, and hats were worn during all activities, and >90% wore long sleeved shirts and pants. VOCs and SVOCs were collected using charcoal tubes and solid phase micro sample extraction (SPME). An analysis of the charcoal and SPME samplers found that 30 compounds were detected overall and that 10 were in both the charcoal tubes and SPME samplers. The chemicals most often detected were 1, 1, 1 Trichloro ethane and xylene. Additionally, farmers experienced the highest exposure to particulates during harvesting. These results demonstrated that farmers experience multiple exposures while farming and that risk communication with education or training programs may mitigate exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saowanee Norkaew
- Faculty of Public Health, Thammasat University, Khlong Nueng 12121, Thailand
| | - Wantanee Phanprasit
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand;
| | - Mark Gregory Robson
- Department of Plant Biology, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
| | - Susan Woskie
- Department of Public Health, Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA;
| | - Brian T. Buckley
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Rutgers, NJ 08854, USA;
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Aprea MC, Centi L, Meniconi M, Lunghini L, Banchi B, Sartorelli P. Determinants of Skin and Respiratory Exposure to Lufenuron During Spraying and Re-entry in Italian Ornamental Plants Greenhouses. Ann Work Expo Health 2021; 65:554-565. [PMID: 33837378 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxaa108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate dermal and respiratory exposure of workers to Lufenuron during spraying and re-entry on ornamental plants (stapling) in greenhouses. Potential and real skin exposure were evaluated using filter paper pads, hand contamination by washing, and respiratory exposure by personal air sampling. Dislodgeable foliar residues (DFRs) during re-entry were determined in order to calculate the dermal transfer factor (DTF). Lufenuron was analysed by liquid chromatography-mass detection. Respiratory dose (ReD) was calculated on the basis of a lung ventilation of 15-20 l min-1 and absorbed doses assuming a skin penetration of 13% and a respiratory retention of 100%. During stapling, from the dependence of exposure of hands from DFRs, the mean DTF was 0.575 cm2 h-1 (geometric mean). The ReD was 68.7-74.6 and 0.022-0.636% of the total real dose during spraying and stapling, respectively. The absorbed doses, 0.144-0.171 and 0.005-0.124 µg kg bw-1 during spraying and stapling, respectively, were less than the acceptable operator exposure level of 10 µg kg bw-1. Proper use of equipment and personal protective equipment and personal hygiene are aspects of fundamental importance on which workers must be trained. Adequate occupational hygiene studies are needed to support and verify working practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Aprea
- Department of Prevention, Unit of Occupational Hygiene and Toxicology, Public Health Laboratory, AUSL South-East Tuscany, Strada del Ruffolo, 4, Siena, Italy
| | - Letizia Centi
- Department of Prevention, Unit of Hygiene and Health in the Work Place, AUSL South-East Tuscany, Via Serdini, 46, 53041 Abbadia San Salvatore, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Meniconi
- Department of Technical Health Professions, Rehabilitation and Prevention, AUSL South-East Tuscany, Via Serdini, 46, 53041 Abbadia San Salvatore, Siena, Italy
| | - Liana Lunghini
- Department of Prevention, Unit of Occupational Hygiene and Toxicology, Public Health Laboratory, AUSL South-East Tuscany, Strada del Ruffolo, 4, Siena, Italy
| | - Bruno Banchi
- Department of Prevention, Unit of Occupational Hygiene and Toxicology, Public Health Laboratory, AUSL South-East Tuscany, Strada del Ruffolo, 4, Siena, Italy
| | - Pietro Sartorelli
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, Unit of Occupational Medicine AOU Senese, Viale Bracci, 16, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Geleta DH, Alemayehu M, Asrade G, Mekonnen TH. Low levels of knowledge and practice of occupational hazards among flower farm workers in southwest Shewa zone, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional analysis. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:232. [PMID: 33509148 PMCID: PMC7844994 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10254-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Over the last decade, flower farms have been rapidly growing in Ethiopia. Following the advent and development of the sector, various work-related chemical, biological, physical, psychosocial, and ergonomic hazards have been emerging unacceptably, with increased risks of exposures for workers and local communities. However, evidence that describes knowledge and prevention practice of occupational hazards among flower farm workers in the country is little documented. The knowledge and safety practice of occupational hazards among flower farm workers in Ethiopia were explored in the current study. Methods A cross-sectional survey of 471 flower farm workers was implemented from March to April 2017. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select the eligible participants. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data, and the data were entered in to Epi Info program version 7 and analyzed by SPSS program version 20. Bivariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate significance of associations at < 0.05 p-values. Results A total of 451 flower farm workers were interviewed with a response rate of 95.7%. The majority, 72.1% (N = 325) were females. Mean age was 24.1 (SD + 6.5) years. About 39.2% (N = 177) of the participants had good knowledge on occupational hazards. The level of safety practice was 26.6% (N = 120). The level of knowledge on occupational hazards was affected by level of education [AOR: 20.03;95% CI (16.30,23.75)], work experience [AOR: 5.97; 95% CI (4.22,7.72)], and type of employment [AOR: 5.35; 95% CI (2.50,8.19)], whereas the level of safety practice was influenced by regular use of personal protective equipment (PPE) [AOR:17.53;95% CI (13.36,21.71)], level of knowledge [AOR: 7.29; 95% CI (3.87,10.73)], and provision of appropriate PPE [AOR: 4.59; 95% CI (2.34,8.86)]. Conclusion This study revealed the levels of knowledge and safety practice towards occupational hazards were low. The knowledge on occupational hazards was significantly affected by the level of education and duration of employment. Moreover, the use of PPE and level of knowledge considerably influenced safety practice. Therefore, we recommend employers to ensure that workplace health and safety programs account for workers’ level of education and work experience. It is also pivotal to provide workers witha suitable PPE and instructions on its use, and to arrange safety communication in the local languages at the relevant workplaces. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-10254-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debela Hinsermu Geleta
- The National Regional State of Oromia, Labour and Social Affairs Bureau, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mekuriaw Alemayehu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Geta Asrade
- Department of Health Systems and Policy, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfaye Hambisa Mekonnen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
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Rahimi T, Rafati F, Sharifi H, Seyedi F. General and reproductive health outcomes among female greenhouse workers: a comparative study. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2020; 20:103. [PMID: 32404142 PMCID: PMC7222304 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-020-00966-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Background Agricultural activities as well as exposure to pesticides could have many adverse effects on health status and reproductive outcomes especially in reproductive aged greenhouse workers. The present study aimed to compare the general and reproductive health outcomes between female greenhouse workers and housewives. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on 645 females of reproductive age. They were categorized into two groups according to occupation in greenhouse (308 female greenhouse workers as exposed group and 337 housewives as control group). Participants were interviewed using a questionnaire about reproductive outcomes and occupational status. Clinical measures include blood pressure (BP), pulse and respiratory rate (PR and RR), body mass index (BMI) and hematological parameters. Mann-Whitney U test was used to assess differences between two groups in quantitative variables. Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests was used to determine the differences in the distribution of categorical variables. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 16. Results The average daily working hours of the greenhouse workers were 6.94 ± 1.99 h. Only 44.3% of them used personal protective equipment. Data revealed that the rate of spontaneous abortion, infertility, low birth weight (LBW), abnormal births and preterm birth were significantly higher among the greenhouse workers compared to the control group (p ≤ 0.05). The average number of female infants in greenhouse workers was significantly higher than the control group (p ≤ 0.05). Clinical measurements indicated an increase in RR of greenhouse workers and mean of BMI was decreased in them. Hematological parameters demonstrated that there was a significant increase in white blood cells (WBC) and significant decrease in hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) among the female greenhouse workers compared to the control (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion Local government efforts is needed to address associated issues including acute effects on health and long-term health risks, resulting from pesticide exposure to greenhouse workers, and gender differences should be considered. Also, occupational health and safety training is necessary and can be helpful in reducing adverse reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahereh Rahimi
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Foozieh Rafati
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Seyedi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran.
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Nassar PPM, Ribeiro MG. Considerations for cholinesterase biomonitoring in flower and ornamental plant greenhouse workers. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 711:135228. [PMID: 31822418 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Flower cultivation in greenhouses enhances productivity and ensures high-quality product supply throughout the year. However, under such protected environments, climate conditions are designed to favor flower growth and can intensify occupational exposure to pesticides. In this study, flower greenhouse workers were tested for cholinesterase inhibition, a valuable indicator of occupational exposure to organophosphate and carbamate pesticides. The quantified inhibition was also associated with working practices using these outcomes to explore ways in which provisions of regulatory Occupational Health Control Programs can be met considering the peculiarities of this working environment. Despite their preliminary nature, and considering that workers had not been previously tested, the obtained results suggested that the designed pre- and post-screening process, enabled biomonitoring of the exposed population. The pre-exposure sample was collected after 11 days from pesticide spraying and the post-exposure sample was collected no later than 10 days after pesticide spraying. AChE activity was significantly depressed in flower greenhouse workers, comparing pre- and post-exposure intervals. Nursery workers, often overlooked, presented greater inhibition of AChE activity. Such finding is consistent with effects believed to be associated with the described job and the way activities are conducted, once nursery workers are regularly exposed to low levels of pesticides owing to their continuous contact with sprayed crops. As predicted by Occupational Safety and Health Standards, establishing biomonitoring programs is achievable, despite the intensive use of pesticides. Quantification is important to target the exposed population but is not sufficient to assure good working conditions and avoid exposure. Administrative and working practices, such as job misclassification, non-compliance with national regulations for occupational health control, pesticide handling, lack of REI protocols, and unsuitable delivery of PPE, must be addressed. Anything less will contribute to worsening an already bleak picture in terms of occupational safety and health in flower and ornamental plant greenhouses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Peixoto Monteiro Nassar
- Fundação Jorge Duprat Figueiredo de Segurança e Medicina do Trabalho (FUNDACENTRO), Rua Capote Valente 710, CEP 05409-002, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Marcela Gerardo Ribeiro
- Fundação Jorge Duprat Figueiredo de Segurança e Medicina do Trabalho (FUNDACENTRO), Rua Capote Valente 710, CEP 05409-002, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Ohlander J, Fuhrimann S, Basinas I, Cherrie JW, Galea KS, Povey AC, van Tongeren M, Harding AH, Jones K, Vermeulen R, Kromhout H. Systematic review of methods used to assess exposure to pesticides in occupational epidemiology studies, 1993-2017. Occup Environ Med 2020; 77:357-367. [PMID: 32098789 PMCID: PMC7279185 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2019-105880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective Numerous exposure assessment methods (EAM) exist for investigating health effects of occupational exposure to pesticides. Direct (eg, biomonitoring) and indirect methods (eg, self-reported exposures) are however associated with degrees of exposure misclassification. We systematically reviewed EAM in studies of occupational pesticide exposure. Methods We searched for articles reporting observational epidemiological studies in MEDLINE and Embase published 1993 to 2017. The relative frequency of EAM was analysed according to EAM type (direct and indirect methods), health outcome, study design, study location (country) and specificity of assessment. Temporal trends in EAM were analysed. Results In 1298 included articles 1521 EAM occurrences were documented. Indirect EAM (78.3%), primarily self-reported exposures (39.3%) and job titles assessments (9.5%), were mainly applied in case-control studies (95.0%), in high-income countries (85.0%) and in studies of doctor-diagnosed health outcomes (>85%). Direct EAM (20.8%), primarily biomonitoring of blood (15.6%) or urine (4.7%), were predominantly applied in cross-sectional studies (29.8%), in lower middle-income countries (40.9%) and in studies of neurological (50.0%) outcomes. Between 1993 to 2017 no distinct time trends regarding the ratio indirect to direct methods was seen. Within the category of indirect methods use of self-reported exposures and job exposure matrices increased while assessments by job titles and registers decreased. The use of algorithms showed no trend. The specificity of pesticide assessment increased since studies assessing exposure by using job title as a proxy declined. Assessments of type of pesticide increased. Conclusion Over the last 25 years, the ratio (5:1) of indirect to direct EAM applied in articles on occupational pesticide epidemiology stayed relatively constant; changes were mainly attributable to increasing use of self-reported exposures and job exposure matrices. This review, combined with studies assessing EAM validity, will inform on magnitudes of exposure misclassification and help improve the quality of studies on occupational pesticides exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Ohlander
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Samuel Fuhrimann
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ioannis Basinas
- Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM), Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - John W Cherrie
- Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM), Edinburgh, United Kingdom.,Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Karen S Galea
- Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM), Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew C Povey
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Martie van Tongeren
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Kate Jones
- Health and Safety Executive, Harpur Hill, Buxton, UK
| | - Roel Vermeulen
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Kromhout
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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12
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Tefera YM, Thredgold L, Pisaniello D, Gaskin S. The greenhouse work environment: a modifier of occupational pesticide exposure? JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART. B, PESTICIDES, FOOD CONTAMINANTS, AND AGRICULTURAL WASTES 2019; 54:817-831. [PMID: 31264928 DOI: 10.1080/03601234.2019.1634972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Greenhouses are enclosed structures which have various characteristics that enhance crop productivity, but the implications for workers' pesticide exposure and uptake are not well understood. A narrative literature review was conducted to explore the mechanism/s of interactions between greenhouse characteristics and occupational pesticide exposure. Using a "work", "worker" and "workplace" conceptual framework, the greenhouse environment (hot and humid microclimate, limited space and dense crop arrangements) combines with work characteristics (high work and pesticide use intensity, multi-tasking, predominantly manual spraying techniques and quick reentry to treated farms) to potentially increase occupational pesticide exposure, compared with open field farming. Greenhouse environments, are variable but have been shown to influence pesticide availability, route, pathways and frequency of exposure, deposition and distribution on a worker's body as well as use and performance of exposure control methods. Training programs can emphasize the differences in exposure potential between greenhouse and open field farming. Development of tailored guidelines for exposure control strategies to better suit the level of uniqueness of greenhouse agriculture seems warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonatal Mesfin Tefera
- Adelaide Exposure Science and Health, School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Leigh Thredgold
- Adelaide Exposure Science and Health, School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Dino Pisaniello
- Adelaide Exposure Science and Health, School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sharyn Gaskin
- Adelaide Exposure Science and Health, School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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13
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Lopes CVA, Albuquerque GSCD. Agrotóxicos e seus impactos na saúde humana e ambiental: uma revisão sistemática. SAÚDE EM DEBATE 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/0103-1104201811714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Atualmente, o Brasil é o maior consumidor de agrotóxicos do mundo. Diversos estudos comprovam os malefícios para a saúde humana e ambiental da exposição aos agrotóxicos. Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática no período de 2011 a 2017 acerca desse tema em bases de dados científicos. Foram incluídos 116 estudos que demonstraram o impacto negativo para a saúde humana e ambiental. É essencial a realização de estudos sobre os efeitos da exposição crônica e simultânea a diversos agrotóxicos, além de estudos sobre os nexos de determinação estrutural do uso dos venenos e suas consequências.
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14
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Aguilar-Garduño C, Blanco-Muñoz J, Roxana Antonio K, Escamilla-Nuñez C, Juárez-Pérez CA, Schilmann A, Cebrian ME, Lacasaña M. Occupational predictors of urinary dialkyl phosphate concentrations in Mexican flower growers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2018; 23:151-159. [PMID: 29484957 DOI: 10.1080/10773525.2018.1441676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Flower growers have high potential for exposures to pesticides. Occupational factors, such as tasks performed, the production method (organic or conventional), the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and workplace characteristics influence the intensity of pesticide exposure. Objective To evaluate occupational characteristics affecting urinary concentration of dialkylphosphate (DAP) metabolites of organophosphate pesticides among a group of Mexican floricultural workers. Methods A questionnaire was administered to 117 workers who also provided a first morning urine sample. According to tasks performed and the production methods, pesticide contact was defined as low, medium, or high. PPE use was categorized as acceptable, fairly acceptable, and unacceptable. Urinary concentration of DAP metabolites were determined using gas-liquid chromatography. Association between occupational characteristics and DAP urinary concentrations was assessed by means of linear regression models. Results After adjusting for potential confounders, the workers in the medium and high contact categories had significantly higher DAP concentrations than those in the low contact category (β: 0.3, CI 95%: 0.1-0.5). Greenhouse workers had greater DAP concentrations than outdoors workers (β: 0.3, CI 95%: 0.1-0.5). Compared with non-acceptable use of PPE, acceptable use of PPE was associated with lower DAP concentrations (β: -0.4, CI 95% -0.6 to -0.1). Conclusion Improved safety training is needed for correct PPE usage, especially among flower growers who use conventional pest control methods and who work in a greenhouse environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemente Aguilar-Garduño
- a Fundación Pública Andaluza para la Investigación Biosanitaria de Andalucía Oriental-Alejandro Otero , Granada , Spain
| | - Julia Blanco-Muñoz
- b Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública de México (INSP) (National Institute of Public Health of Mexico) , Cuernavaca , Mexico
| | - Karina Roxana Antonio
- b Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública de México (INSP) (National Institute of Public Health of Mexico) , Cuernavaca , Mexico
| | - Consuelo Escamilla-Nuñez
- b Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública de México (INSP) (National Institute of Public Health of Mexico) , Cuernavaca , Mexico
| | - Cuauhtémoc A Juárez-Pérez
- c Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (Mexican Institute of Social Security) , Ciudad de Mexico , Mexico
| | - Astrid Schilmann
- b Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública de México (INSP) (National Institute of Public Health of Mexico) , Cuernavaca , Mexico
| | - Mariano E Cebrian
- d Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CINVESTAV) , Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN) (Center for Advanced Studies and Research of the National Polytechnic Institute) , Ciudad de Mexico , México
| | - Marina Lacasaña
- e Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública (EASP) (Andalusian School of Public Health) , Campus Universitario de la Cartuja, Granada , Spain
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15
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Handal AJ, Hund L, Páez M, Bear S, Greenberg C, Fenske RA, Barr DB. Characterization of Pesticide Exposure in a Sample of Pregnant Women in Ecuador. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2016; 70:627-39. [PMID: 26311023 PMCID: PMC4769681 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-015-0217-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have detailed the prenatal pesticide exposure levels of women employed in or residing near large-scale agricultural industries. This study reports pesticide metabolite levels during and shortly after pregnancy in a pilot study of workers in Ecuador. Urine samples were collected for 16 rose workers and 10 nonagricultural workers enrolled into the study in early pregnancy. We measured six nonspecific organophosphatedialkylphosphate (DAP) pesticide metabolites, two alkylenebis-dithiocarbamate pesticide metabolites [ethylene thiourea (ETU) and propylene thiourea (PTU)], 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TCPy), malathion dicarboxylic acid, and two pyrethroid metabolites (2,2-dimethylcyclo propanecarboxylic acid and 3-phenooxybenzoic acid). We collected 141 urine samples (mean: 5.4 per woman). We observed high detection frequencies for five DAP metabolites and ETU, PTU, and TCPy. We report elevated levels of ETU in the entire sample (median 4.24 ng/mL, IQR 2.23, 7.18), suggesting other possible non-occupational pathways of exposure. We found no statistical differences in pesticide levels by current employment status, although the highest pesticide levels were among rose workers. We observed within-woman correlation in TCPy and PTU levels, but not in ETU or DAP levels. The present study is the first to characterize prenatal pesticide exposure levels among working women in Ecuador. Limitations include a small sample size and use of a convenience sample. Strengths include a longitudinal design and multiple urine samples per woman. Results provide an initial characterization of prenatal pesticide exposure levels and how these levels vary over pregnancy in a community impacted by agricultural industry and will inform further studies in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis J Handal
- Public Health Program, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA.
| | - Lauren Hund
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Maritza Páez
- College of Health Sciences, Universidad San Francisco de Quito, Cumbaya, Ecuador
| | - Samantha Bear
- Public Health Program, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Carolyn Greenberg
- Public Health Program, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Richard A Fenske
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Dana Boyd Barr
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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16
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Nakagawa LE, Potenza MR, Ichirraro TH, Papini S. Persistence of chlorpyrifos in greenhouse air. ARQUIVOS DO INSTITUTO BIOLÓGICO 2016. [DOI: 10.1590/1808-1657001052014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT: Organophosphate pesticides are among those with the highest acute toxicity and are available on the market and used in several regions of Brazil. The concentration and residence time of the organophosphate pesticide, chlorpyrifos, in the air after application in a greenhouse were investigated. For more than 24 h, the chlorpyrifos remained in the greenhouse air at concentrations three times above the occupational exposure limit and was still detectable four days later.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lia Emi Nakagawa
- Instituto Biológico, Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento de Proteção Ambiental, Brazil
| | | | - Taysa Harue Ichirraro
- Instituto Biológico, Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento de Proteção Ambiental, Brazil
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17
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Wilhelm CM, Calsing AK, da Silva LB. Assessment of DNA damage in floriculturists in southern Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:8182-8189. [PMID: 25516252 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3959-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 12/04/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess possible genotoxic effects on floriculturists in a region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, in the south of Brazil, using the micronucleus test (MN) and comet assay. Thirty-seven floriculturists and 37 individuals not exposed to pesticides participated in the study. The micronucleus test was performed with epithelial cells of the oral mucosa. In the microscopic analysis, 2000 cells were evaluated per subject, verifying the frequency of MN and the frequency of other nuclear abnormalities (nuclear buds, binucleated cells, and karyorrhexis). For the comet assay in the peripheral blood lymphocytes, 100 cells were classified in five classes, according to the migration of DNA fragments, thereby generating the frequency of damaged cells and the damage index. There was no difference between the exposed and control groups in the frequencies of MN and other nuclear abnormalities in the epithelial cells of the oral mucosa. However, the comet assay showed that both the frequency of DNA damaged cells and the damage index were significantly greater in the exposed group. The results therefore indicate that floriculturists are exposed to mixtures of pesticides with genotoxic potential.
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18
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Hanssen VM, Nigatu AW, Zeleke ZK, Moen BE, Bråtveit M. High Prevalence of Respiratory and Dermal Symptoms Among Ethiopian Flower Farm Workers. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2015; 70:204-213. [PMID: 24428185 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2013.853645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The flower industry is among the most important export industries in Ethiopia, employing more than 50,000 workers. The working conditions and health status among workers in Ethiopian flower industry are not documented. A questionnaire-based interview was conducted among 213 flower industry workers from 3 flower farms and 60 control workers from supermarkets from February to March 2012. A walk-through survey was also performed on the 3 flower farms. Interviewed flower farm workers have high prevalences of respiratory and dermal symptoms, which are rarely reported among controls. Female workers inside the greenhouses on the 3 flower farms have significantly more respiratory and dermal symptoms than workers outside the greenhouse, also when adjusting for age and education. Limited access to personal protection equipment (PPE) and unsafe pesticide routines are documented. This study indicates that working in these flower greenhouses might be associated with adverse health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vegard Mjelde Hanssen
- a Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of Bergen , Bergen , Norway
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19
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Berenstein GA, Hughes EA, March H, Rojic G, Zalts A, Montserrat JM. Pesticide potential dermal exposure during the manipulation of concentrated mixtures at small horticultural and floricultural production units in Argentina: the formulation effect. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2014; 472:509-516. [PMID: 24317159 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2013.11.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Revised: 10/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/11/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Potential dermal exposure measurements of horticultural and floricultural field operators that handled concentrated pesticides showed a correlation with the types of formulations used (liquid or solid) during the mix and load stage. For liquid formulations, hand exposure was 22-62 times greater than that for solid ones. The dermal exposure mechanism was studied for this formulation under laboratory conditions, finding that the rupture of the aluminum seal of the pesticide container and the color of the liquid formulation are important factors. Additionally, significant external surface contamination of pesticide containers collected at horticultural farms was found. This could partially account for the differences between the exposure levels of field and laboratory experiments for liquid formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giselle A Berenstein
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX) Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Enrique A Hughes
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX) Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Hugo March
- Agrofina, Joaquín V. González 4977, (C1419AYK), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guillermo Rojic
- Agrofina, Joaquín V. González 4977, (C1419AYK), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Anita Zalts
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX) Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Javier M Montserrat
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX) Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular (CONICET), Vuelta de Obligado 2490, 2º piso, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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20
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Pesticide consumption, central nervous system and cardiovascular congenital malformations in the South and Southeast region of Brazil. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2014; 27:474-86. [DOI: 10.2478/s13382-014-0269-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
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21
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Lesmes-Fabian C, Binder CR. Pesticide flow analysis to assess human exposure in greenhouse flower production in Colombia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 10:1168-85. [PMID: 23528812 PMCID: PMC3709311 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph10041168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2013] [Revised: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Human exposure assessment tools represent a means for understanding human exposure to pesticides in agricultural activities and managing possible health risks. This paper presents a pesticide flow analysis modeling approach developed to assess human exposure to pesticide use in greenhouse flower crops in Colombia, focusing on dermal and inhalation exposure. This approach is based on the material flow analysis methodology. The transfer coefficients were obtained using the whole body dosimetry method for dermal exposure and the button personal inhalable aerosol sampler for inhalation exposure, using the tracer uranine as a pesticide surrogate. The case study was a greenhouse rose farm in the Bogota Plateau in Colombia. The approach was applied to estimate the exposure to pesticides such as mancozeb, carbendazim, propamocarb hydrochloride, fosetyl, carboxin, thiram, dimethomorph and mandipropamide. We found dermal absorption estimations close to the AOEL reference values for the pesticides carbendazim, mancozeb, thiram and mandipropamide during the study period. In addition, high values of dermal exposure were found on the forearms, hands, chest and legs of study participants, indicating weaknesses in the overlapping areas of the personal protective equipment parts. These results show how the material flow analysis methodology can be applied in the field of human exposure for early recognition of the dispersion of pesticides and support the development of measures to improve operational safety during pesticide management. Furthermore, the model makes it possible to identify the status quo of the health risk faced by workers in the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Lesmes-Fabian
- Department of Geography, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Luisenstrasse 37 D-80333, Munich, Germany.
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22
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Raksanam B, Taneepanichskul S, Robson MG, Siriwong W. Health Risk Behaviors Associated With Agrochemical Exposure Among Rice Farmers in a Rural Community, Thailand. Asia Pac J Public Health 2012; 26:588-95. [DOI: 10.1177/1010539512466426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The study objective was to evaluate health beliefs and behaviors associated with agrochemical exposure among rice farmers. We applied the Health Belief Model, community-based ethnography, and public health risk assessment for this study. Data were collected from 101 rice farmers in Khlong Seven community between January and June 2010. Data comprised observations, unstructured and semistructured interviews, and focus group discussions. We showed that farmers had moderate levels of perceived susceptibility to, severity of, benefits of, and barriers to using agrochemicals safely. The major risk factors related to agrochemical exposure resulted from the misuse of pesticides, including erroneous beliefs of farmers regarding pesticide toxicity, the use of faulty spraying equipment, the lack of proper maintenance of spraying equipment, or the lack of protective gear and appropriate clothing. An intervention program is necessary to improve safety with regard to agrochemicals in the rice Khlong Seven community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buppha Raksanam
- Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Sirindhorn college of Public Health, Trang
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23
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Oliveira Pasiani J, Torres P, Roniery Silva J, Zago Diniz B, Dutra Caldas E. Knowledge, attitudes, practices and biomonitoring of farmers and residents exposed to pesticides in Brazil. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2012; 9:3051-68. [PMID: 23202670 PMCID: PMC3499853 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph9093051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Revised: 08/08/2012] [Accepted: 08/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding pesticide use and the levels of exposure of farmers and residents to organophosphorous and/or carbamates pesticides were evaluated in two rural settings in Brazil. A questionnaire was completed by 112 farm workers aged ≥18 years. Almost all farmers acknowledged that pesticides were potentially harmful to their health (87.5%); however, over half rarely (48.2%) or never (7.2%) used personal protective devices (PPDs). An association was found (p = 0.001) between the work regimen and the use of PPDs, with more frequent equipment use among hired laborers than those involved in family agriculture. A significant correlation (p = 0.027) was found between the reporting of adverse symptoms and the use of backpack sprayers. Mean AChE activities of farmers (n = 64) and residents (n = 18) during the exposure and non-exposure periods were significantly lower than their control groups. Mean BChE activities of farmers and residents were significantly lower than their controls during the exposure period. Among the 60 farmers that had blood samples collected in both the exposure and non-exposure (baseline) periods, 10 (16.7%) had AChE depletion of over 30% during the exposure period compared with the baseline level. Six residents living on the same farms also presented this depletion. AChE was over 30% higher than the baseline level for 19 farmers (31.7%), indicating a reboot effect. Special education programs are needed in these regions to promote the safe use of pesticides in the field to decrease the risks from exposure to pesticides for farmers, and from secondary exposure to these compounds for their families.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Eloisa Dutra Caldas
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, 709010-9000 Brasília, DF, Brazil; (J.O.P.); (P.T.); (J.R.S.); (B.Z.D.)
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