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Carsi Kuhangana T, Cheyns K, Muta Musambo T, Banza Lubaba Nkulu C, Smolders E, Hoet P, Van Loco J, Nemery B, Demaegdt H. Cottage industry as a source of high exposure to lead: A biomonitoring study among people involved in manufacturing cookware from scrap metal. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 250:118493. [PMID: 38378125 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118493] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
In low-income countries, a widespread but poorly studied type of cottage industry consists of melting scrap metal for making cookware. We assessed the exposure to lead (Pb) among artisanal workers, and their families, involved in manufacturing cookware from scrap metal. In a cross-sectional survey, we compared artisanal cookware manufacturing foundries with carpentry workshops (negative controls) and car battery repair workshops (positive controls), all located in residential areas, in Lubumbashi (DR Congo). We collected surface dust in the workspaces, and blood and urine samples among workers, as well as residents living in the cookware workshops. Trace elements were quantified in the samples by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). In surface dust, median Pb concentrations were higher in cookware foundries (347 mg/kg) than in carpentries (234 mg/kg) but lower than in battery repair workshops (22,000 mg/kg). In workers making the cookware (n = 24), geometric mean (GM) Pb blood cencentration was 118 μg/L [interquartile range (IQR) 78.4-204], i.e. nearly twice as high as among carpenters [60.2 μg/L (44.4-84.7), n = 33], and half the concentration of battery repair workers [255 μg/L (197-362), n = 23]. Resident children from the cookware foundries, had higher urinary Pb [6.2 μg/g creatinine (2.3-19.3), n = 6] than adults [2.3 (2.2-2.5), n = 3]. Our investigation confirms the high Pb hazard linked to car battery repair and reveals a high exposure to Pb among artisanal cookware manufacturers and their families, especially children, in residential areas of a city in a low-income country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trésor Carsi Kuhangana
- Ecole de Santé Publique, Université de Kolwezi, Kolwezi, DR Congo; Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Unit of Toxicology and Environment, School of Public Health, University of Lubumbashi, DR Congo.
| | - Karlien Cheyns
- Service of Trace Elements and Nanomaterials, Physical and Chemical Health Risks, Sciensano, Tervuren, Belgium
| | - Taty Muta Musambo
- Unit of Toxicology and Environment, School of Public Health, University of Lubumbashi, DR Congo
| | | | - Erik Smolders
- Division of Soil and Water Management, Faculty of Bioscience engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter Hoet
- Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joris Van Loco
- Division of Soil and Water Management, Faculty of Bioscience engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Sciences Group, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Benoit Nemery
- Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Heidi Demaegdt
- Division of Soil and Water Management, Faculty of Bioscience engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Fellows KM, Samy S, Whittaker SG. Evaluating metal cookware as a source of lead exposure. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2024:10.1038/s41370-024-00686-7. [PMID: 38773235 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-024-00686-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously demonstrated that aluminum cookware brought from Afghanistan by resettled families as well as some aluminum cookware available for purchase in the United States represent a previously unrecognized source of lead exposure. However, the extent to which this cookware represents a source of lead exposure to other United States residents is unclear. OBJECTIVES To test additional cookware for lead content and its propensity to leach lead and other toxic metals. This will further our understanding of the extent to which this cookware represents a lead poisoning risk in the United States and elsewhere. METHODS We screened an additional 28 pieces of aluminum cookware and 5 brass items for lead content using an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer and used our leachate method to estimate the amount of lead that migrates into food. We also tested 17 additional stainless steel items to determine whether they would be safer alternatives. RESULTS Many aluminum cookware products contained in excess of 100 parts per million (ppm) of lead. Many also leached enough lead under simulated cooking and storage conditions to exceed recommended dietary limits. One hindalium appam pan (an Indian frying pan/wok) leached sufficient lead to exceed the childhood limit by 1400-fold. Brass cookpots from India also yielded high lead levels, with one exceeding the childhood limit by over 1200-fold. In contrast, stainless steel cookware leached much lower levels of lead. IMPACT Aluminum and brass cookware available for purchase in the United States represents a previously unrecognized source of lead exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie M Fellows
- Hazardous Waste Management Program in King County, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Shar Samy
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Cantoral A, Betanzos-Robledo L, Collado-López S, García-Martínez BA, Lamadrid-Figueroa H, Mariscal-Moreno RM, Díaz-Ruiz A, Ríos C, Téllez-Rojo MM. Lead Levels in the Most Consumed Mexican Foods: First Monitoring Effort. TOXICS 2024; 12:318. [PMID: 38787097 PMCID: PMC11125852 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12050318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Globally, there is growing concern over the presence of lead (Pb) in foods because it is a heavy metal with several toxic effects on human health. However, monitoring studies have not been conducted in Mexico. In this study, we estimated the concentrations of Pb in the most consumed foods and identified those that exceeded the maximum limits (MLs) for Pb in foods established by the International Standards. Based on the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey, 103 foods and beverages were selected and purchased in Mexico City retail stores and markets. Samples were analyzed twice using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Values above the limit of quantification (0.0025 mg/kg) were considered to be detected. The percentage of detected values was 18%. The highest concentration was found in infant rice cereal (1.005 mg/kg), whole wheat bread (0.447 mg/kg), pre-cooked rice (0.276 mg/kg), black pepper (0.239 mg/kg), and turmeric (0.176 mg/kg). Among the foods with detected Pb, the levels in infant rice cereal, whole wheat bread, pre-cooked rice, and soy infant formula exceeded the MLs. The food groups with the highest percentages of exceeded MLs were baby foods (18%) and cereals (11%). Monitoring the concentration of contaminants in foods is essential for implementing food safety policies and protecting consumer health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Cantoral
- Health Department, Iberoamericana University, Mexico City 01376, Mexico; (A.C.); (R.M.M.-M.)
| | - Larissa Betanzos-Robledo
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62100, Mexico;
| | - Sonia Collado-López
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62100, Mexico;
| | | | - Héctor Lamadrid-Figueroa
- Department of Perinatal Health, Center for Population Health Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62100, Mexico;
| | - Rosa M. Mariscal-Moreno
- Health Department, Iberoamericana University, Mexico City 01376, Mexico; (A.C.); (R.M.M.-M.)
| | - Araceli Díaz-Ruiz
- Department of Neurochemistry, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery Manuel Velasco Suárez, Mexico City 14269, Mexico;
| | - Camilo Ríos
- Research Direction, National Institute of Rehabilitation, Mexico City 14389, Mexico;
| | - Martha María Téllez-Rojo
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62100, Mexico;
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Sargsyan A, Nash E, Binkhorst G, Forsyth JE, Jones B, Sanchez Ibarra G, Berg S, McCartor A, Fuller R, Bose-O'Reilly S. Rapid Market Screening to assess lead concentrations in consumer products across 25 low- and middle-income countries. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9713. [PMID: 38678115 PMCID: PMC11055946 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59519-0] [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: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Lead exposure can have serious consequences for health and development. The neurological and behavioral effects of lead are considered irreversible. Young children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning. In 2020, Pure Earth and UNICEF estimated that one in three children had elevated blood lead levels above 5 µg/dL. The sources of lead exposure vary around the world and can range from household products, such as spices or foodware, to environmental pollution from nearby industries. The aim of this study was to analyze common products from markets in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) for their lead content to determine whether they are plausible sources of exposure. In 25 LMICs, the research teams systematically collected consumer products (metal foodware, ceramics, cosmetics, paints, toys, spices and other foods). The items were analyzed on site for detectable lead above 2 ppm using an X-ray fluorescence analyzer. For quality control purposes, a subset of the samples was analyzed in the USA using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The lead concentrations of the individual product types were compared with established regulatory thresholds. Out of 5007 analyzed products, threshold values (TV) were surpassed in 51% for metal foodware (TV 100 ppm), 45% for ceramics (TV 100 ppm), and 41% for paints (TV 90 ppm). Sources of exposure in LMICs can be diverse, and consumers in LMICs lack adequate protection from preventable sources of lead exposure. Rapid Market Screening is an innovative, simple, and useful tool to identify risky products that could be sources of lead exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aelita Sargsyan
- Pure Earth, 475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10115, USA
- Doctoral Program in Pollution, Toxicology and Environmental Health, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Valencia, c/Dr. Moliner, 50, Burjassot, 46100, Valencia, Spain
| | - Emily Nash
- Pure Earth, 475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10115, USA
| | | | - Jenna E Forsyth
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Barbara Jones
- Cardinal Resources, Inc., 4410 Broadway Blvd., Monroeville, PA, 15146, USA
| | | | - Sarah Berg
- Pure Earth, 475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10115, USA
| | | | - Richard Fuller
- Pure Earth, 475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10115, USA
| | - Stephan Bose-O'Reilly
- Pure Earth, 475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY, 10115, USA.
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Ziemssenstr. 5, 80336, Munich, Germany.
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Ali Sultan SA, Ahmed Khan F, Wahab A, Fatima B, Khalid H, Bahader A, Safi SZ, Selvaraj C, Ali A, Alomar SY, Imran M. Assessing Leaching of Potentially Hazardous Elements from Cookware during Cooking: A Serious Public Health Concern. TOXICS 2023; 11:640. [PMID: 37505605 PMCID: PMC10386729 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11070640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The intake of toxic metals from cooking utensils through food is of growing concern to the medical community. This intake poses serious risk to human health. In many developing countries, different types of contaminated metals scraps are used to make cooking utensils. The leaching of both nutritionally essential and toxic metals in significant quantities from cookware during the cooking process results in food contamination and poses a substantial health risk. In the present study, the leaching of some toxic and potentially toxic metals from cooking utensils into different solutions and food was investigated. A preliminary survey indicated that the majority of individuals tend to use aluminum cookware due to its affordability, overlooking the potential health risks associated with these inexpensive and lower-quality cooking utensils. XRF analysis revealed that aluminum, steel, and copper cookware had K, Ca, Pb, Cd, Ni, V, Sn Mo, Zn, Bi, and Tb as contaminants. In addition, aluminum (3.2 ± 0.25 to 4.64 ± 0.20 g/kg) and copper cookware (2.90 ± 0.12 g/kg) were highly contaminated with lead. The time and pH-dependent study revealed that leaching of metals (Al, Pb, Ni, Cr, Cd, Cu, and Fe, etc.) into food was predominantly from anodized and non-anodized aluminum cookware. More metal leaching was observed from new aluminum cookware compared to old. Acidic food was found to cause more metals to leach during cooking. Blood metal analysis of the local population revealed the presence of high concentrations of Al, Pb, Cd, and Ni. In conclusion, leaching of toxic or potentially toxic metals from cookware into food, especially from anodized and non-anodized aluminum cookware, poses a potential public health risk. Practical applications: Cooking utensils are routinely used for the preparation of food. However, the harmful impact posed by these essential items is largely unknown. The current research briefly explains the toxic metals leaching from cookware in a pH-dependent manner and leaves a message to the public, especially in developing countries like Pakistan, regarding the type of cookware suitable for cooking purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Ali Ali Sultan
- Biochemistry Section, Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar 25120, Pakistan
| | - Fawad Ahmed Khan
- Biochemistry Section, Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar 25120, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Wahab
- Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710062, China
| | - Batool Fatima
- Department of Biochemistry, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Hira Khalid
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Optoelectronic Sciences, Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tianjin University & Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Ali Bahader
- Department of Chemistry, Hazara University, Mansehra 21120, Pakistan
| | - Sher Zaman Safi
- Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Bandar Saujana Putra, Jenjarom 42610, Malaysia
- IRCBM, COMSATS University Islamabad Lahore Campus, Punjab 54000, Pakistan
| | - Chandrabose Selvaraj
- Center for Transdisciplinary Research, Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai 600077, India
| | - Abid Ali
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan
| | - Suliman Yousef Alomar
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Biochemistry Section, Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar 25120, Pakistan
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Weidenhamer JD, Chasant M, Gottesfeld P. Metal exposures from source materials for artisanal aluminum cookware. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:374-385. [PMID: 35100934 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2030677] [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: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Artisanal aluminum cookware releases lead and other metals that pose significant health risk for people in low and middle-income countries. Cookware is made from recycled engine and electronic appliance parts, cans, and other materials. We obtained fourteen custom-made pots from Ghana, produced from seven different scrap aluminum sources. We sought to determine whether avoiding certain source materials could reduce leaching of metals. Cooking was simulated using dilute acetic acid and palm oil. Aluminum released from all pots exceeded recommended guidelines. Variable amounts of lead, cadmium, chromium, nickel and other metals were leached, with the most lead coming from auto radiators and mixed metals. Pots made from engine blocks did not yield detectable amounts of lead. All pots released potentially harmful concentrations of two or more metals. Selective scrap aluminum sourcing for recycled cookware does not avoid metal contamination of food, although some sources may release lower concentrations of certain metals.
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MELLO JCD, TONIAL IB, LUCCHETTA L. Aluminum accumulation in the wheat production chain: a review. FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1590/fst.116022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
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Kordas K, Cantoral A, Desai G, Halabicky O, Signes-Pastor AJ, Tellez-Rojo MM, Peterson KE, Karagas MR. Dietary Exposure to Toxic Elements and the Health of Young Children: Methodological Considerations and Data Needs. J Nutr 2022; 152:2572-2581. [PMID: 36774123 PMCID: PMC10157815 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxac185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Concerns have been raised regarding toxic-element (arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury) contamination of commercially available infant foods around the world. Young children are vulnerable to the effects of toxic elements, based on higher absorption levels and potentially poorer detoxification capacities. Toxic-element exposures in early life exact high societal costs, but it is unclear how much dietary exposure to these elements contributes to adverse health outcomes. Well-designed epidemiological studies conducted in different geographical and socioeconomic contexts need to estimate dietary toxicant exposure in young children and to determine whether causal links exist between toxicants in children's diets and health outcomes. This commentary outlines the methodological considerations and data needs to advance such research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kordas
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, Buffalo NY, USA.
| | | | - Gauri Desai
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, Buffalo NY, USA
| | - Olivia Halabicky
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Antonio J Signes-Pastor
- Unidad de Epidemiología de la Nutrición, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Alicante, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
| | - Martha M Tellez-Rojo
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Karen E Peterson
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Margaret R Karagas
- Department of Epidemiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
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Collado-López S, Betanzos-Robledo L, Téllez-Rojo MM, Lamadrid-Figueroa H, Reyes M, Ríos C, Cantoral A. Heavy Metals in Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods Consumed by Humans Worldwide: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148651. [PMID: 35886506 PMCID: PMC9319294 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals (HM) can be accumulated along the food chain; their presence in food is a global concern for human health because some of them are toxic even at low concentrations. Unprocessed or minimally processed foods are good sources of different nutrients, so their safety and quality composition should be guaranteed in the most natural form that is obtained for human consumption. The objective of this scoping review (ScR) is to summarize the existing evidence about the presence of HM content (arsenic (As), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), methylmercury (MeHg), and aluminum (Al)) in unprocessed or minimally processed foods for human consumption worldwide during the period of 2011–2020. As a second objective, we identified reported HM values in food with respect to Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Food Standards for Maximum Limits (MLs) for contaminants in food. This ScR was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR); advance searches were performed in PubMed, ScienceDirect and FAO AGRIS (Agricultural Science and Technology Information) databases by two reviewers who independently performed literature searches with specific eligibility criteria. We classified individual foods in food groups and subgroups according to the Global Individual Information Food Consumption Data Tool (FAO/WHO GIFT). We homologated all the reported HM units to parts per million (ppm) to determine the weighted mean HM concentration per country and food group/subgroup of the articles included. Then, we compared HM concentration findings with FAO/WHO MLs. Finally, we used a Geographic Information System (GIS) to present our findings. Using our search strategy, we included 152 articles. Asia was the continent with the highest number of publications (n = 79, 51.3%), with China being the country with the largest number of studies (n = 34). Fish and shellfish (n = 58), followed by vegetables (n = 39) and cereals (n = 38), were the food groups studied the most. Fish (n = 42), rice (n = 33), and leafy (n = 28) and fruiting vegetables (n = 29) were the most studied food subgroups. With respect to the HM of interest, Cd was the most analyzed, followed by Pb, As, Hg and Al. Finally, we found that many of the HM concentrations reported exceeded the FAO/OMS MLs established for Cd, Pb and As globally in all food groups, mainly in vegetables, followed by the roots and tubers, and cereals food groups. Our study highlights the presence of HM in the most natural forms of food around the world, in concentrations that, in fact, exceed the MLs, which affects food safety and could represent a human health risk. In countries with regulations on these topics, a monitoring system is recommended to evaluate and monitor compliance with national standards. For countries without a regulation system, it is recommended to adopt international guidelines, such as those of FAO, and implement a monitoring system that supervises national compliance. In both cases, the information must be disseminated to the population to create social awareness. This is especially important to protect the population from the consumption of internal production and for the international markets of the globalized world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Collado-López
- School of Public Health, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62100, Mexico;
| | - Larissa Betanzos-Robledo
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62100, Mexico; (L.B.-R.); (M.M.T.-R.)
| | - Martha María Téllez-Rojo
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62100, Mexico; (L.B.-R.); (M.M.T.-R.)
| | - Héctor Lamadrid-Figueroa
- Department of Perinatal Health, Center for Population Health Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca 62100, Mexico;
| | - Moisés Reyes
- Economics Department and GEOLab-IBERO, Universidad Iberoamericana, Mexico City 01219, Mexico;
| | - Camilo Ríos
- Neurochemistry Department, National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery, México City 14269, Mexico;
| | - Alejandra Cantoral
- Health Department, Universidad Iberoamericana, México City 01219, Mexico
- Correspondence:
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Fellows KM, Samy S, Rodriguez Y, Whittaker SG. Investigating aluminum cookpots as a source of lead exposure in Afghan refugee children resettled in the United States. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2022; 32:451-460. [PMID: 35501355 PMCID: PMC9119854 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-022-00431-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Afghan refugee children resettled in Washington State have the highest prevalence of elevated blood lead levels (BLLs) of any other refugee or immigrant population. Resettled families brought several lead-containing items with them from Afghanistan, including aluminum cookpots. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the potential contribution of lead-containing cookpots to elevated BLLs in Afghan children and determine whether safer alternative cookware is available. METHODS We screened 40 aluminum cookpots for lead content using an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer and used a leachate method to estimate the amount of lead that migrates into food. We also tested five stainless steel cookpots to determine whether they would be safer alternatives. RESULTS Many aluminum cookpots contained lead in excess of 100 parts per million (ppm), with a highest detected concentration of 66,374 ppm. Many also leached sufficient lead under simulated cooking and storage conditions to exceed recommended dietary limits. One pressure cooker leached sufficient lead to exceed the childhood limit by 650-fold. In contrast, stainless steel cookpots leached much lower levels of lead. SIGNIFICANCE Aluminum cookpots used by refugee families are likely associated with elevated BLLs in local Afghan children. However, this investigation revealed that other U.S. residents, including adults and children, are also at risk of poisoning by lead and other toxic metals from some imported aluminum cookpots. IMPACT STATEMENT Some aluminum cookware brought from Afghanistan by resettled families as well as cookpots available for purchase in the United States represent a previously unrecognized source of lead exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie M Fellows
- Hazardous Waste Management Program in King County, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shar Samy
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Yoni Rodriguez
- Hazardous Waste Management Program in King County, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Brown MJ, Patel P, Nash E, Dikid T, Blanton C, Forsyth JE, Fontaine R, Sharma P, Keith J, Babu B, Vaisakh TP, Azarudeen MJ, Riram B, Shrivastava A. Prevalence of elevated blood lead levels and risk factors among children living in Patna, Bihar, India 2020. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000743. [PMID: 36962532 PMCID: PMC10021519 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
Childhood lead exposure remains a key health concern for officials worldwide, contributing some 600,000 new cases of intellectually disabled children annually. Most children affected by high exposure to lead live in low- and middle-income countries. The leaded gasoline phase out in India was completed in 2000. Yet, in 2020, an estimated 275 million children aged 0 to 9 years had blood lead levels (BLLs) ≥ 5 μg/dL known to adversely affect intelligence and behavior. Lead sources reported in India include spices, cookware, paint, traditional medicines and cosmetics, and lead-acid battery recycling and repair. However, their relative contribution has not been characterized. More than 200 lead pollution sites related to battery recycling and repair activities were identified in Bihar and Jharkhand, India. Ninety percent of the recycling sites had soil lead concentrations exceeding the US Environmental Protection Agency's standards. We compared blood and environmental lead levels in two groups of children in Patna, Bihar. Households in proximity to battery recycling operations (Proximal n = 67) versus households distal to these operations (Distal n = 68). The average age of children was 40 months; 46% were female. Overall, the geometric mean (GM) BLL was 11.6 μg/dL. GM BLLs of children in Proximal and Distal households were not significantly different (10.2 μg/dL vs. 13.1 μg/dL respectively; p≤0.07). About 87% children, 56 Proximal and 62 Distal had BLLs ≥5 μg/dl. Lead concentrations in environmental samples were significantly higher in Proximal households (soil mean 9.8 vs. 1.6 μg/ft2; dust mean 52.9 vs. 29.9 μg/ft2 p<0.001; Proximal vs. Distal respectively) whereas concentrations in all spices were higher in Distal households (mean 46.8 vs 134.5 ppm p<0.001; Proximal vs. Distal respectively), and turmeric (mean 59.4 vs. 216.9 ppm Proximal vs. Distal respectively). In multivariate analyses for all children lead in spices and turmeric and number of rooms in the house were significant while for the Proximal group only lead in spices remained in the model. The predictive value of these models was poor. For the Distal group, a model with lead concentration in spices, turmeric and soil and number of rooms in the house was a much better fit. Of the 34 water samples collected, 7 were above the Indian standard of 10 ppb for lead in drinking water (2 in the Proximal area, 5 in the Distal area). Children in Patna, Bihar, India are exposed to multiple sources of lead, with lead levels in house dust and loose, locally sourced spices the most likely to increase blood lead levels. A holistic approach to blood lead testing and source identification and remediation are necessary to prevent lead exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Brown
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - P Patel
- National Center for Disease Control India, New Delhi, India
| | - E Nash
- Pure Earth, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - T Dikid
- National Center for Disease Control India, New Delhi, India
| | - C Blanton
- Division of Global Health Protection, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - J E Forsyth
- Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - R Fontaine
- Division of Global Health Protection, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - P Sharma
- Pure Earth, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - J Keith
- Pure Earth, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - B Babu
- National Center for Disease Control India, New Delhi, India
| | - T P Vaisakh
- National Center for Disease Control India, New Delhi, India
| | - M J Azarudeen
- National Center for Disease Control India, New Delhi, India
| | - B Riram
- National Center for Disease Control India, New Delhi, India
| | - A Shrivastava
- National Center for Disease Control India, New Delhi, India
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12
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Moradnia M, Movahedian Attar H, Heidari Z, Mohammadi F, Kelishadi R. Monitoring of urinary arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) among a sample of pregnant Iranian women. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2021; 19:1901-1909. [PMID: 34900315 PMCID: PMC8617224 DOI: 10.1007/s40201-021-00743-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Heavy metals, as significant toxic environmental contaminants, can cause serious adverse health outcomes on the human body even in trace concentrations. There is limited evidence on heavy metal concentrations existing in the body fluids of pregnant women. This study aims to evaluate the urinary levels of arsenic (As) and lead (Pb), as two main toxic heavy metals, among pregnant women and their lifestyle determinants. METHODS The study was performed in 2019-2020 in Isfahan, Iran. A number of 140 urine samples of pregnant women who were in their first pregnancy trimester were examined. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) was applied to analyze the urinary concentrations of As and Pb. Socio-demographic data including age, pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), education status, and family income, as well as the use of cleaning products (cosmetic and household cleaning products), and lifestyle habits (food intake, smoking, and physical activity) were collected using a validated questionnaire. RESULTS The mean concentration of As and Pb were 8.14 ± 10.8 and 9.6 ± 7.1 μg/g creatinine, respectively. The mean urinary concentration of Pb indicated significant differences in the levels of cosmetic usage, second-hand smoking exposure, and the use of Copper, Aluminum, Teflon, Steel, and Enameled utensils for cooking (p-value < 0.05). Furthermore, the mean of urinary Pb concentrations at high levels of physical activity and scratched utensils using was significantly different from the other categories (p-value = 0.02). No significant differences were found between As and Pb concentration with other socio-demographic factors. CONCLUSION The lifestyle determinants and cosmetic products use are important predictors of urinary heavy metals in pregnant women, rather than sociodemographic characteristics. Additional research is necessary to determine long-term adverse birth outcomes of exposure to these heavy metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Moradnia
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hossein Movahedian Attar
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Environment Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zahra Heidari
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Mohammadi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Environment Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Roya Kelishadi
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Growth and Development Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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13
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Moradnia M, Attar HM, Heidari Z, Mohammadi F, Kelishadi R. Prenatal exposure to chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) in a sample of Iranian pregnant women: urinary levels and associated socio-demographic and lifestyle factors. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:63412-63421. [PMID: 34231141 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15201-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals have been well documented to pose detrimental health effects. The current study aimed to measure the concentration of chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni) in urinary samples of Iranian pregnant females and determine their potential correlations with different lifestyle variables. The study was conducted in 2019-2020 in Isfahan, Iran, and the urine samples were collected from 140 pregnant women. The concentrations of Cr and Ni in the urinary samples were measured by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Data on socio-demographic characteristics, use of cleaning products, and lifestyle profiles was collected by validated questionnaires. Cr and Ni were detected in 100% of urinary samples with the mean concentration of 4.1±3.4 and 7.5±4.8 μg/g creatinine, respectively. Significant associations were found between the mean concentration of Cr and Ni with using cooking utensils made of copper, aluminum, Teflon, steel, and enameled, as well as with cosmetic use, and second-hand smoking exposure during pregnancy. The results also showed that the mean urinary Ni and Cr concentrations were significantly different among individuals who consumed seafood and canned food (p-value <0.05). Furthermore, the mean of urinary Cr and Ni concentrations at high levels of physical activity and scratched utensils used was significantly different from the other categories (p-value <0.05). According to our findings, the lifestyle determinants and cosmetic products had superiority to socio-demographic characteristics in predicting urinary heavy metals in Iranian pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Moradnia
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hossein Movahedian Attar
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
- Environment Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Zahra Heidari
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Mohammadi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Environment Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Roya Kelishadi
- Department of Pediatrics, Child Growth and Development Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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14
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Zhang J, Hao Y, Wang Y, Han Y, Zhang S, Niu Q. Relationship between the expression of TNFR1-RIP1/RIP3 in peripheral blood and cognitive function in occupational Al-exposed workers: A mediation effect study. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 278:130484. [PMID: 33838418 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.130484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Aluminium (Al), not essential for biological activities, accumulates in the tissues. It exerts toxic effects on the nervous system, inducing in humans' irreversible cognitive impairment. In this study, a cluster sampling method was used to observe the cognitive function of long-term occupational Al-exposed workers in a large Al factory, and determine the expression of peripheral blood tumour necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1), receptor-interacting protein 1 (RIP1), and RIP3. TNF-alpha, expressed in blood macrophages and microglia, with its receptors TNFR1, TR1 and TR3, enhances the necroptosis of neurons. Additionally, the relationship between the expression of TNFR1, RIP1, and RIP3 in the peripheral blood of long-term occupational Al-exposed workers and changes in their cognitive function was explored. The differences in the distributions of clock drawing test (CDT) scores among the three groups were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The results of correlation analysis showed that RIP1 and RIP3 protein contents were negatively correlated with mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and CDT scores (P < 0.05). Plasma Al content was positively correlated with other biological indicators (P < 0.05), and negatively correlated with MMSE and CDT scores (P < 0.05). Results showed that RIP3 protein had an incomplete mediation effect between plasma Al content and cognitive function. This suggests that Al may affect cognitive function by influencing the expression of TNFR1, RIP1, and RIP3 in the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingsi Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Yanxia Hao
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Yanni Wang
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Yingchao Han
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Shuhui Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, China; Key Lab of Environmental Hazard and Health of Shanxi Province, Shanxi Medical University, China; Key Lab of Cellular Physiology of Education Ministry, Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Qiao Niu
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, China; Key Lab of Environmental Hazard and Health of Shanxi Province, Shanxi Medical University, China; Key Lab of Cellular Physiology of Education Ministry, Shanxi Medical University, China.
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15
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Midstream Players Determine Population-Level Behavior Change: Social Marketing Research to Increase Demand for Lead-Free Components in Pitcher Pumps in Madagascar. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18147297. [PMID: 34299747 PMCID: PMC8306871 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) exposure through water contamination is an important issue at the intersection of public health and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). Behavior-change programs designed to address this pressing problem rarely take a behavioral-science-informed approach, nor do they consider the role of intermediate players who often influence and support behavior change. Social marketing segments the population and focuses on the consumer/user throughout program development and implementation. To illustrate the social marketing process, this cross-sectional, qualitative design study investigates the use of Pb in the construction and maintenance of household pitcher pumps for potable water in Madagascar. A sample of 18 technicians were interviewed on their current practices, motivators, barriers, and communication channels for knowledge exchange. The results reveal the importance of peers, those considered experts or "market mavens", and the need for information on the dangers of Pb as an outdated practice for any future intervention. This study advances the notion of a design shift within engineering WASH projects, whereby social/behavioral approaches are used to consider the needs, concerns, and current behaviors of the consumer. We also advocate for engaging intermediate players who often influence behavior change in the rollout of an engineering innovation.
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16
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Buerck AM, Usowicz M, Cunningham JA, Khaliq M, Barrett LJP, Rakotoarisoa L, Rakotondrazaka R, Alfredo K, Sommariva S, Mihelcic JR. Health and Economic Consequences of Lead Exposure Associated with Products and Services Provided by the Informal Economy. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:8362-8370. [PMID: 34018712 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c08127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the presence of an informal economy can lead to human exposure to toxic metals such as lead (Pb). This paper demonstrates the local health and economic benefits of modifying practices within the informal economic sector in Madagascar. Specifically, leaded components in 504 locally manufactured household water pumps were replaced with unleaded components. Prior to the intervention, 32% of the household systems exhibited lead concentrations above the World Health Organization (WHO) provisional drinking water guideline of 10 μg/L, but after the intervention, fewer than 3% of the systems were in exceedance. The reduction of lead concentration is modeled to reduce the fraction of children with elevated BLLs (>5 μg/dL) from 34 to 13%. The reduction in BLLs is estimated to provide an average economic benefit of US$11 800 per child based on predicted increases in lifetime productivity. This corresponds to a total benefit of US$8.7 million for the 730 children aged 1-5 associated with the pumps, representing a return on investment of greater than 1000-to-1. Results demonstrate how the formation of partnerships between public, private, and civil society entities, as suggested by UN Sustainable Development Goal 17, can realize important local economic and health benefits in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adaline M Buerck
- College of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida, 4202 E Fowler Avenue, ENG 030, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Michal Usowicz
- College of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida, 4202 E Fowler Avenue, ENG 030, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Jeffrey A Cunningham
- College of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida, 4202 E Fowler Avenue, ENG 030, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Mahmooda Khaliq
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, Florida 33612, United States
| | | | - Lova Rakotoarisoa
- ONG Ranontsika, 22 Bis Rue du Commerce, Ampasimazava, Toamasina 501, Madagascar
| | | | - Katherine Alfredo
- College of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida, 4202 E Fowler Avenue, ENG 030, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
| | - Silvia Sommariva
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 13201 Bruce B Downs Blvd, MDC 56, Tampa, Florida 33612, United States
| | - James R Mihelcic
- College of Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida, 4202 E Fowler Avenue, ENG 030, Tampa, Florida 33620, United States
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17
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Dórea JG. Neurodevelopment and exposure to neurotoxic metal(loid)s in environments polluted by mining, metal scrapping and smelters, and e-waste recycling in low and middle-income countries. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 197:111124. [PMID: 33861977 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This review covers a wide body of literature to gain an understanding of the impacts of informal activities related to metal extraction (primary mining and recycling) on early life exposure to neurotoxicants and on neurodevelopment. In primary mining, gold extraction with Hg amalgamation is the main environmental cause of Hg pollution in most artisanal small-scale gold mining (ASGM) activities around the world. Nevertheless, in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), Pb disrupted from gold-related ores, mining, and artisanal cookware production are an important neurotoxicant that seriously contaminates the affected population, with devastating effects on children. In e-waste recycling settings, the range of neurotoxic substances that contaminate mothers and children is wider than in primary mining environments. Thus, Hg and Pb are major pre- and postnatal neurotoxicants affecting children in the informal metal extraction activities and SSA countries show the highest record of human contamination and of neurotoxic effects on children. There are additional sources of neurotoxic contamination from mining and metal processing activities (cyanide tailing in South America and SSA) and/or co-exposure to Hg-containing products such as cosmetics (soaps and Hg-based skin lightning creams in Africa) and pediatric Thimerosal-containing vaccines (TCVs, that breaks down to ethyl-mercury) in current use in middle and low income countries. However, the action of these neurotoxicants (per se or in combination) on children needs more attention and research. Studies show a negative association between biomarkers of all environmental metal(loid)s (As, Cd, Hg, Mn, and Pb) studied and neurodevelopment in young children. Sadly, in many unregulated activities, child labor is widely employed, thus presenting an additional occupational exposure. Children living in polluted environments related to metal processing are disproportionately exposed to a wide range of co-occurring neurotoxic substances. The review showed compelling evidence from highly representative parts of the world (Africa, Asia, and Latin America) that the studied neurotoxic substances negatively affected areas of the brain associated with language, memory and executive function, as well as psychosocial behavior. Protecting the environment and children from unregulated and highly polluting metal extraction and processing are inextricably intertwined and deserve urgent attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- José G Dórea
- Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, 70919-970, DF, Brazil.
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18
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Street RA, Goessler W, Naidoo S, Shezi B, Cele N, Rieger J, Ettinger K, Reddy T, Mathee A. Exposure to lead and other toxic metals from informal foundries producing cookware from scrap metal. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 191:109860. [PMID: 32768472 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Metal exposure remains a significant public health problem, particularly in the informal sector. The rise in informal foundries to cast scrap metal into artisanal cookware is widespread in low- and middle-income countries. The main aim of this study was to characterize metal exposure in artisanal cookware makers working in informal foundries in South Africa by measuring lead (Pb) in blood as well as sample metal concentrations on hands before and after work. The blood Pb distribution of the artisanal pot makers ranged from 1.1 to 4.6 μg/dl with the median blood Pb level being 2.1 μg/dl (IQR 1.7-2.5). The median blood Pb level in artisanal pot makers was 1.0 μg/dl higher compared with the non-exposed community members (p < 0.0001). Before-and-after handwipe sampling revealed a median increase in all 22 elements. Pre and post aluminum (Al) load on the handwipes revealed a 7.3 factor increase (0.53 and 3.9 mg Al/handwipe respectively) (p = 0.003). Hand Pb load before and after pot making revealed a 3.5-fold increase (median increase of 6.2 μg Pb/handwipe). An increase in backyard informal foundries may be linked to increased exposure to toxic metals for workers, family members and communities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Saloshni Naidoo
- University of KwaZulu-Natal College of Health Sciences, South Africa
| | - Busisiwe Shezi
- South African Medical Research Council Durban, South Africa
| | - Nokulunga Cele
- South African Medical Research Council Durban, South Africa
| | | | | | - Tarylee Reddy
- South African Medical Research Council Durban, South Africa
| | - Angela Mathee
- South African Medical Research Council Durban, South Africa
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19
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Alabi OA, Unuigboje MA, Olagoke DO, Adeoluwa YM. Toxicity associated with long term use of aluminum cookware in mice: A systemic, genetic and reproductive perspective. Mutat Res 2020; 861-862:503296. [PMID: 33551099 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2020.503296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Studies on the toxic effects of cooking with aluminum pots are limited and none of them have explored its impact on the genetic material in germ and somatic cells. Therefore, this study investigated the cytogenotoxic effect of boiled water from new, 3- and 6-year old aluminum pots in germ and somatic cells viz-a-vis mouse sperm morphology test and sperm count; and the bone marrow micronucleus test. The mice were allowed to freely drink the boiled water from the different aluminum pots for 3, 4, and 5 weeks. The heavy metal analysis showed that As, Pb, Cd, and Al were present in the boiled water samples at different concentrations with the 6-year old pot having the highest concentrations of Pb, Cd, and Al. There were duration of exposure and age of pot-dependent significant increase in abnormal sperm cells and a significant decrease total mean sperm count of exposed mice. Similarly, there was a statistically significant increase in micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes and nuclear abnormalities in the exposed mice that increased dependently upon the age of the cookware. Finally there were significantly increased activities of serum AST and ALT; and the liver concentrations of MDA, SOD and CAT in boiled water exposed mice. The findings of this study revealed that boiled water from aluminum pots is capable of inducing cytotoxic and genotoxic effects, especially as the pot ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okunola A Alabi
- Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.
| | - Mary A Unuigboje
- Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Daniel O Olagoke
- Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Yetunde M Adeoluwa
- Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
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20
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Banavi P, Sadeghi E, Garavand F, Heydari M, Rouhi M. Release behavior of metals from tin-lined copper cookware into food simulants during cooking and cold storage. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:38591-38601. [PMID: 32623684 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-09970-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The copper pots with an inner coating layer of tin have been remarkably used in many countries for a long time. In this study, leaching of some metals from tin-lined copper pots into food simulators at different pHs (4, 5.5, 7, and 8.5) during boiling processing (95 °C for 1, 2, and 3 h) or refrigerated storage (4 °C for 1, 2, and 3 days) was investigated. Citric acid and sodium hydroxide were used to adjust the pH of food simulators. The leaching concentrations of metals were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometers (ICP-OES). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to indicate the surface morphological properties of cookware. Based on the preliminary experiments, metals including Al, Sn, Cu, Mn, Fe, Ca, Na, Cr, Mg, and Zn were selected to analyze in acidic treatments. Furthermore, Al, Cu, Sn, Na, and Ca were analyzed for neutral and alkaline ones. Results showed that the boiling temperature for 3 h resulted in a much higher migration of metals compared with cold storage for 3 days. Mn and Cr showed the lowest metal concentration during cooking and cold storage, respectively. The concentration of Sn in acidic simulators was remarkably higher than the other metals during both cooking and refrigerated storage. However, Ca during cold storage, as well as Na during both cooking and cold storage, showed the most migration in alkaline solutions, among the other pHs. An acidic simulator with pH 4 showed the most considerable release of metals from copper pots. SEM results indicated more intense surface corrosion by acidic solution (pH 4) than alkaline one. In general, longer cooking and cold storage durations led to increasing metals release. The migration of the studied metals demonstrates the impurities of the tin layer of these cookwares that may lead to acute and/or chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parvaneh Banavi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ehsan Sadeghi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Farhad Garavand
- Department of Food Chemistry & Technology, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | - Mahshid Heydari
- Student Research Committee, Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Milad Rouhi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology, Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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21
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Shezi B, Mathee A, Cele N, Ndabandaba S, Street RA. Occupational Exposure to Fine Particulate Matter (PM 4 and PM 2.5) during Hand-Made Cookware Operation: Personal, Indoor and Outdoor Levels. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7522. [PMID: 33081113 PMCID: PMC7602743 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17207522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
(1) Exposure of informal artisanal cookware makers to fine particles has not yet been characterized. The aim of this study was to characterize occupational exposure to fine particulate matter (PM4 and PM2.5) levels and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) elemental components; (2) Artisanal cookware makers were recruited from five cookware making sites. Exposure to fine particulate matter was measured for 17 male participants. SidePak personal aerosol monitors (AM520) were used to measure personal exposure to PM4, while a DustTrak monitor and an E-sampler were used to assess indoor and outdoor PM2.5 levels, respectively. A questionnaire was administered to capture information on demographic characteristics. The chemical characterization of indoor and outdoor PM2.5 filter mass was conducted using Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence. Time series record of 15-min averages for indoor and outdoor PM2.5 levels were assessed; (3) The median (range) was 124 µg/m3 (23-100,000), 64 µg/m3 (1-6097) and 12 µg/m3 (4-1178), respectively, for personal PM4, indoor and outdoor PM2.5. The highest levels for many of the elemental components of PM2.5 were found in the outdoor PM2.5 filter mass and (4). The information generated during this study may assist in extending occupational health and safety strategies to artisanal cookware makers and developing targeted prevention initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Busisiwe Shezi
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg 2094, South Africa;
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg 2094, South Africa
| | - Angela Mathee
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg 2094, South Africa;
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg 2094, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Health, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth 6019, South Africa
| | - Nokulunga Cele
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban 4001, South Africa; (N.C.); (S.N.); (R.A.S.)
| | - Sipho Ndabandaba
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban 4001, South Africa; (N.C.); (S.N.); (R.A.S.)
| | - Renee A. Street
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban 4001, South Africa; (N.C.); (S.N.); (R.A.S.)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Discipline of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, Durban 4001, South Africa
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Onyeka UE, Ibeawuchi ON. Loss of food nutrients orchestrated by cooking pots: a common trend in developing world. Journal of Food Science and Technology 2020; 58:2906-2913. [PMID: 34294952 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-020-04792-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Six types of cooking pots with five different food stuffs were used to investigate the influence of cooking pots on macro and micronutrients of cooked foods. A general trend observed was that cooking pot forged from titanium offered best protection (retention) of micronutrients while pitted aluminum pot offered the lowest irrespective of the food sample cooked. Titanium and enamel coated cooking pots required less quantity of water to get food done resulting into a low (68.67%) moisture content for food cooked in such pots in contrast to values as high as 77.89% when other pots were used. Our research evidenced that cooking pot may have impact on people's morbidity since steady consumption of food cooked in some pots may aggravate, micronutrient malnutrition. Our findings suggest a contrary view to the previous idea of using pressure pot to cook food. Pots that offered low-pressure cooking (82 °C/0.53 bar) was found to preserve the most heat liable nutrients. Our recommendation, therefore, is the use of titanium and enamel coated cooking pots which offered better retention of food nutrients. Cooking may cause changes to food nutrient depending on foodstuff, materials used in forging the pot as well as the fitness of the pot lid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uloma E Onyeka
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
| | - Obinna N Ibeawuchi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
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Mathee A, Street R. Recycled aluminium cooking pots: a growing public health concern in poorly resourced countries. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1411. [PMID: 32938416 PMCID: PMC7495850 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09485-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Lead exposure remains a significant public health problem, particularly in the informal sector. Recycling of scrap metal into artisanal pots is a growing concern in poorly resourced countries. Owing to the relatively light weight and low cost of the artisanal pots, as well as good conductivity which equates to lower usage of wood fuel, the pots are widely used. The aim of this article is to describe current insights and emerging evidence of health risks associated with artisanal pot making and usage. This thriving industry, particularly in poorly resourced communities, has multifaceted occupational, environmental and human health impacts. Given the complexity, innovative solutions need to be prioritized, evaluated and scaled up in relevant settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Mathee
- Environment & Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Behavioural and Lifestyle Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
| | - Renée Street
- Environment & Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- School of Nursing and Public Health, Discipline of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Mathee A, Street R, Teare J, Naicker N. Lead exposure in the home environment: An overview of risks from cottage industries in Africa. Neurotoxicology 2020; 81:34-39. [PMID: 32835764 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2020.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Mathee
- Environment & Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Environmental Health, School of Behavioral and Lifestyle Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa
| | - Renée Street
- Environment & Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - June Teare
- Environment & Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Environmental Health, School of Behavioral and Lifestyle Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
| | - Nisha Naicker
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Environmental Health, School of Behavioral and Lifestyle Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth, South Africa; Epidemiology and Surveillance Section, National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH), a Division of National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Johannesburg, South Africa; School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Production Usage, and Potential Public Health Effects of Aluminum Cookware: A Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.2478/ast-2020-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The ingestion of aluminum from food containers such as cookware, cans, utensils and wrappings and its subsequent release into the environment is a growing public health concern. Aluminum is widely used in manufacturing cookware due to its malleability, high heat conductivity, light weight, durability, availability and affordability. This paper therefore gives a review of most relevant literatures on the benefits and risks of the various types of aluminum cookware in use, the composition and the public health effects of aluminum ingestion. Studies that reported the leaching of aluminum from cookware into food and environmental effects of aluminum leaching were also reviewed. In the developing countries, aluminum cookwares are produced from scrap metals and has been reported to leach harmful substances including heavy metals such as: nickel, arsenic, copper, cadmium, lead, and aluminum into cooked food. Several factors have been reported to increase the rate of leaching of metals from aluminum cookwares. Exposure to metals from aluminum cookware and the public health effects have not been well studied, hence, our recommendation for more studies to elucidate the health effect of this practice. This review also presents measures that can limit exposure to the risks that may arise from the use of aluminum cookware.
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Heavy Metals in a High Arctic Fiord and Their Introduction with the Wastewater: A Case Study of Adventfjorden-Longyearbyen System, Svalbard. WATER 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/w12030794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Longyearbyen is the largest settlement on Svalbard archipelago, with 2400 permanent residents and approximately 150,000 tourists visiting every year. The city annually releases approximately 285,000 m3 of untreated wastewater to the nearby Adventfjorden. To date, the environmental impact of this continuous input has been studied mainly regarding the sediments and benthic fauna in the fiord. Here, we present results from a study of raw wastewater entering Adventfjorden as well as heavy metals concentrations in the water column within the fjord itself. Two surveys were carried out in summer and autumn season 2018, to establish physical and chemical properties of water at various locations. Trace elements (V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Hg, As, Cd, Pb, U), total suspended solids (TSS) and total organic carbon (TOC) were measured. Our results show that Longyearbyen’s raw wastewater introduces low concentrations of heavy metals to the fiord, but due to the growing number of inhabitants and tourists, it should be monitored to avoid degradation of Adventfjorden ecosystem
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Health risks of toxic metals (Al, Fe and Pb) in two common street vended foods, fufu and fried-rice, in Kumasi, Ghana. SCIENTIFIC AFRICAN 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2020.e00289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Street RA, Mathee A, Tanda S, Hauzenberger C, Naidoo S, Goessler W. Recycling of scrap metal into artisanal cookware in the informal sector: A public health threat from multi metal exposure in South Africa. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 699:134324. [PMID: 33736189 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.134324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Recycling of scrap metal into artisanal cookware is widespread in poorly resourced countries. The aim of the study was to determine the risk of metal exposure from the use of artisanal cookware available in South Africa. Twenty cookware samples were purchased from local manufacturers and informal traders across South Africa. Aluminum and silicon concentrations were determined using XRF and the total content of 18 elements (Ag, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, V and Zn) were evaluated using ICPMS. Leaching of metals from cut pieces of cookware over a 2-h period of boiling in a 3% acetic acid solution was repeated 3 times and revealed multi-metal migration that was compared to EU maximum permissible levels. The mean Al migration of 509 mg L-1 was over 100 times the EU maximum permissible level allowed for cookware. Lead was detected in all samples with 11 (55%), 12 (60%) and 9 (45%) of samples being over the maximum EU permissible level (10 μg Pb L-1) for 1st, 2nd and 3rd migrations respectively. The mean As migration concentrations in the first leaching event ranged from 0.23 to 24.1 μg L-1 with four pots (20%) over the maximum EU permissible limit for As (2 μg L-1). Notably, all four pots were well below the maximum EU permissible As limit by the 3rd migration. Cadmium and mercury were detected in each pot across all three migrations however the levels were relatively low. Transmission electron microscopy revealed dramatic changes in surface structure after leaching of cookware.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renée A Street
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa; University of KwaZulu-Natal, Discipline of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Angela Mathee
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, South Africa; School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Stefan Tanda
- University of Graz, Institute of Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry for Health and Environment, Universitaetsplatz 1, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Christoph Hauzenberger
- University of Graz, NAWI Graz Geocenter, Institute of Earth Sciences, Universitaetsplatz 2, Graz A-8010, Austria
| | - Saloshni Naidoo
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, Durban, South Africa
| | - Walter Goessler
- University of Graz, Institute of Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry for Health and Environment, Universitaetsplatz 1, 8010 Graz, Austria
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Mathee A, Street R. WITHDRAWN:Recycled Aluminium Cooking Pots: A Priority For The Unfinished Agenda Of Lead Exposure Reduction In Poorly Resourced Countries. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2019.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Vofo BN, Vofo GVFN, Fonge BA, Nsagha DS, Egbe TO, Assob JCN. High umbilical cord blood lead levels and "calabar chalk" consumption amongst pregnant women in two hospitals in Cameroon. Pan Afr Med J 2019; 33:109. [PMID: 31489087 PMCID: PMC6711677 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2019.33.109.13999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION "Calabar chalk" is a lead-laden pica mostly consumed by pregnant women worldwide as a remedy for morning sickness. This clay material has been shown to have lead levels of up to 40mg per kilogram. Meanwhile blood lead levels, even at doses less than 10μg/dl will be toxic to humans and even worse-off to the fetus as it crosses the placenta. We, therefore, sort to determine the prevalence of "Calabar chalk" consumption amongst pregnant women and if it translates to higher umbilical cord blood lead levels. METHODS We carried out a cross-sectional study by prospectively and consecutively enrolling 300 pregnant women from December 2014 through February 2015. A questionnaire was administered to ascertain "Calabar chalk" consumption. The levels of lead in the umbilical cord blood of 51 participants of each group of those who consumed and didn't consume "Calabar chalk" were measured by spectrometry and compared using the T-test (p<0.05). RESULTS The prevalence of "Calabar chalk" consumption was 43.33%. This was mostly consumed during pregnancy only (46.34%), with higher rates observed amongst primigravidas. The mean umbilical blood lead levels amongst those who consumed and those who did not consume "Calabar chalk" was 39.19μg/dl and 25.33μg/dl respectively (P=0.111). CONCLUSION The prevalence of "Calabar chalk" consumption was high in the pregnant women population. The overall umbilical cord blood lead levels were extremely high in both consumers and non-consumers. We recommend health education and chelation therapy to be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brice Nguedia Vofo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | | | - Beatrice Ambo Fonge
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Dickson Shey Nsagha
- Department of Public Health and Hygiene, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Thomas Obinchemti Egbe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Jules Clement Nguedia Assob
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, South West Region, Cameroon
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Bede-Ojimadu O, Amadi CN, Orisakwe OE. Blood Lead Levels in Women of Child-Bearing Age in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review. Front Public Health 2018; 6:367. [PMID: 30619808 PMCID: PMC6305709 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper reported available studies on blood lead level of childbearing age in Sub-Saharan African women. PubMed and Google scholar databases were searched for original articles reporting blood lead levels of women of childbearing age in Sub-Saharan Africa. Searches were not limited to year of study but limited to studies published in English Language. Data were extracted and synthesized by estimating the weighted mean of the reported blood lead levels. Fifteen papers fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Mean blood lead levels of women in the studies ranged from 0.83 to 99 μg/dl. The overall weighted mean of blood lead levels was 24.73 μg/dl. The weighted mean from analyses of data on blood lead levels of pregnant women alone was 26.24 μg/dl. Identified sources of lead exposure included lead mine, informal lead-acid battery recycling, leaded gasoline and piped water. Elevated BLLs were associated with incidence of preeclampsia, hypertension, and malaria. Important contributing factors for elevated blood lead levels (BLL) in these women include poverty, high environmental lead burden, low awareness on lead exposure hazards and lack of regulation for lead in consumer products. BLLs of women of childbearing age in SSA are unacceptably high. There is need therefore, for aggressive programs to address lead exposure in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onyinyechi Bede-Ojimadu
- Department of Chemical pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Cecilia Nwadiuto Amadi
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port-Harcourt, Port-Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Orish Ebere Orisakwe
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port-Harcourt, Port-Harcourt, Nigeria
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Zendehboodi Z. Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity effects of water boiled in aluminum vessels on Allium cepa root tip cells. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2018; 16:337-341. [PMID: 30729004 PMCID: PMC6277333 DOI: 10.1007/s40201-018-0313-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Cookwares made from aluminum (Al) are supposed to be a potential source of Al contamination of food. In this study, the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity effects of water boiled in aluminum cookwares on the dividing cells of onion root tip were examined using Allium cepa assay. Three used aluminum cookwares from different sources were selected. Distilled water was gently boiled in each pot and then used for growing onions. The cells of root tip were analyzed for mitotic and phase indexes as well as aberrations appeared in the interphase and mitotic phase. One way analysis of variance and post-hoc Tukey HSD test were applied for comparison between experimental groups. The results showed that the mitotic index in one of the treated groups increased significantly compared to the control. Also the frequency of prophase in two of treated groups increased significantly compared to that of the control. There was a borderline significant increase in the frequency average of total aberrations from three treated groups compared to that of the control (p value = 0.063). Also, a significant increase was observed in the frequency average of disturbed mitosis from three treated groups compared to that of the control (p value = 0.04). The findings of this preliminary study supported a possible health hazard of aluminum cookwares. Further investigation with larger sample and food with various compositions is needed to reach a full conclusion about the health effect of aluminum cookwares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Zendehboodi
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences, Shiraz University, Shiraz, 71467-13565 Iran
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Bjørklund G, Skalny AV, Rahman MM, Dadar M, Yassa HA, Aaseth J, Chirumbolo S, Skalnaya MG, Tinkov AA. Toxic metal(loid)-based pollutants and their possible role in autism spectrum disorder. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 166:234-250. [PMID: 29902778 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and stereotypic behaviors. Many studies support a significant relationship between many different environmental factors in ASD etiology. These factors include increased daily exposure to various toxic metal-based environmental pollutants, which represent a cause for concern in public health. This article reviews the most relevant toxic metals, commonly found, environmental pollutants, i.e., lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), aluminum (Al), and the metalloid arsenic (As). Additionally, it discusses how pollutants can be a possible pathogenetic cause of ASD through various mechanisms including neuroinflammation in different regions of the brain, fundamentally occurring through elevation of the proinflammatory profile of cytokines and aberrant expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Due to the worldwide increase in toxic environmental pollution, studies on the role of pollutants in neurodevelopmental disorders, including direct effects on the developing brain and the subjects' genetic susceptibility and polymorphism, are of utmost importance to achieve the best therapeutic approach and preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine, Mo i Rana, Norway.
| | - Anatoly V Skalny
- Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia; Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia; All-Russian Research Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Moscow, Russia
| | - Md Mostafizur Rahman
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh; Graduate School of Environmental Science, Hokkaido University, Japan
| | - Maryam Dadar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Heba A Yassa
- Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Jan Aaseth
- Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway; Department of Research, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Brumunddal, Norway
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurological and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Alexey A Tinkov
- Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), Moscow, Russia; Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia
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Monebenimp F, Kuepouo G, Chelo D, Anatole PC, Kany Bissek ACZ, Gottesfeld P. Blood Lead Levels among Children in Yaoundé Cameroon. Front Public Health 2017; 5:163. [PMID: 28736727 PMCID: PMC5500612 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2017.00163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood lead levels (BLLs) are a useful indication of a population exposure to lead from environmental sources. No previous published study had reported BLLs in Cameroon. Our objective is to characterize exposure levels in children to inform policymakers of potential lead exposure sources. We tested the BLLs of 147 children aged 12 months to 6 years residing in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and conducted an extensive questionnaire with their parents or guardians to characterize potential exposure sources. The geometric mean BLL among this population was 8.0 μg/dl and arithmetic mean level was 8.7 μg/dl. These levels are more than sixfold higher than the geometric mean BLL reported in the U.S. and more than fivefold higher than those reported in France. In addition, 88% of the children tested had lead levels greater than 5 μg/dl. One limitation of the study is that the selection of the children sampled was not a random survey. The analysis of the responses to the questionnaire failed to uncover any specific exposure patterns. A statistically significant association was noted between the age of the child’s home and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding with BLLs. The study points to a need for greater efforts to control sources of lead exposure in Cameroon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Monebenimp
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomédical Sciences (FMBS), Department of Public Health, Service of Pediatrics, University Teaching Hospital of Yaoundé, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Gilbert Kuepouo
- Centre de Recherche et d'Education pour le Développement (CREPD), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - David Chelo
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomédical Sciences (FMBS), Department of Public Health, Service of Pediatrics, University Teaching Hospital of Yaoundé, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Pieme Constant Anatole
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomédical Sciences (FMBS), Department of Public Health, Service of Pediatrics, University Teaching Hospital of Yaoundé, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Anne-Cécile Zoung Kany Bissek
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomédical Sciences (FMBS), Department of Public Health, Service of Pediatrics, University Teaching Hospital of Yaoundé, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Perry Gottesfeld
- Occupational Knowledge International, San Francisco, CA, United States
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Amadi CN, Igweze ZN, Orisakwe OE. Heavy metals in miscarriages and stillbirths in developing nations. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2017.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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Weidenhamer JD, Fitzpatrick MP, Biro AM, Kobunski PA, Hudson MR, Corbin RW, Gottesfeld P. Metal exposures from aluminum cookware: An unrecognized public health risk in developing countries. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 579:805-813. [PMID: 27866735 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Removing lead from gasoline has resulted in decreases in blood lead levels in most of the world, but blood lead levels remain elevated in low and middle-income countries compared to more developed countries. Several reasons for this difference have been investigated, but few studies have examined the potential contribution from locally-made aluminum cookware. In a previous study of cookware from a single African country, Cameroon, artisanal aluminum cookware that is made from scrap metal released significant quantities of lead. In this study, 42 intact aluminum cookware items from ten developing countries were tested for their potential to release lead and other metals during cooking. Fifteen items released ≥1 microgram of lead per serving (250mL) when tested by boiling with dilute acetic acid for 2h. One pot, from Viet Nam, released 33, 1126 and 1426 micrograms per serving in successive tests. Ten samples released >1 microgram of cadmium per serving, and fifteen items released >1 microgram of arsenic per serving. The mean exposure estimate for aluminum was 125mg per serving, more than six times the World Health Organization's Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake of 20mg/day for a 70kg adult, and 40 of 42 items tested exceeded this level. We conducted preliminary assessments of three potential methods to reduce metal leaching from this cookware. Coating the cookware reduced aluminum exposure per serving by >98%, and similar reductions were seen for other metals as well. Potential exposure to metals by corrosion during cooking may pose a significant and largely unrecognized public health risk which deserves urgent attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D Weidenhamer
- Department of Chemistry, Geology & Physics, 401 College Ave., Ashland University, Ashland, OH 44805, USA
| | - Meghann P Fitzpatrick
- Department of Chemistry, Geology & Physics, 401 College Ave., Ashland University, Ashland, OH 44805, USA
| | - Alison M Biro
- Department of Chemistry, Geology & Physics, 401 College Ave., Ashland University, Ashland, OH 44805, USA
| | - Peter A Kobunski
- Department of Chemistry, Geology & Physics, 401 College Ave., Ashland University, Ashland, OH 44805, USA
| | - Michael R Hudson
- Department of Chemistry, Geology & Physics, 401 College Ave., Ashland University, Ashland, OH 44805, USA
| | - Rebecca W Corbin
- Department of Chemistry, Geology & Physics, 401 College Ave., Ashland University, Ashland, OH 44805, USA
| | - Perry Gottesfeld
- Executive Director, Occupational Knowledge International, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Andrade VM, Aschner M, Marreilha dos Santos AP. Neurotoxicity of Metal Mixtures. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2017; 18:227-265. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-60189-2_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Role of Metabolic Genes in Blood Aluminum Concentrations of Jamaican Children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13111095. [PMID: 27834815 PMCID: PMC5129305 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13111095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Revised: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Aluminum is a neurotoxic metal with known health effects in animals and humans. Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) genes and enzymes play a major role in detoxification of several heavy metals. Besides a direct relationship with oxidative stress; aluminum decreases GST enzyme activities. Using data from 116 Jamaican children; age 2–8 years; with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and 116 sex- and age-matched typically developing (TD) children; we investigated the association of polymorphisms in three GST genes (GSTP1; GSTM1; and GSTT1) with mean blood aluminum concentrations in children with and without ASD. Using log-transformed blood aluminum concentration as the dependent variable in a linear regression model; we assessed the additive and interactive effects of ASD status and polymorphisms in the three aforementioned GST genes in relation to blood aluminum concentrations. Although none of the additive effects were statistically significant (all p > 0.16); we observed a marginally significant interaction between GSTP1 Ile105Val (rs1695) and ASD status (p = 0.07); even after controlling for parental education level and consumption of avocado; root vegetables; and tuna (canned fish). Our findings indicate a significantly lower (p < 0.03) adjusted geometric mean blood aluminum concentration for TD children who had the Val/Val genotype (14.57 µg/L); compared with those with Ile/Ile or Ile/Val genotypes who had an adjusted geometric mean of 23.75 µg/L. However; this difference was not statistically significant among the ASD cases (p = 0.76). Our findings indicate that ASD status may be a potential effect modifier when assessing the association between GSTP1 rs1695 and blood aluminum concentrations among Jamaican children. These findings require replication in other populations.
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Extraction d’or dans une entreprise en Mauritanie : une activité à risque potentiel de saturnisme professionnel. ARCH MAL PROF ENVIRO 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.admp.2015.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Abstract
For the first time, an irradiated mineral was used as a novel modified adsorbent for lead removal of aqueous solutions. The effects of gamma radiation doses and temperature on the lead adsorption capacity of an unknown mineral were evaluated. The results show that, in the chemisorption process, the highest adsorption capacity (9.91 mg/g) and the maximum percentage of lead removal (99.1%) were reached at 40°C when using an irradiated mineral at 150 kGy. The improvement on the lead adsorption speed was the most important feature of the irradiated mineral. The experimental results were successfully correlated with the pseudo second-order kinetic model. For all results, the average absolute relative deviations (AARD) were less than 13.20%, and the correlation factor (r2) was higher than 0.998. Moreover, the average values of the thermodynamic parameters (ΔG0=-10612 J/mol, ΔH0=-12360 J/mol, and ΔS0=171 J/mol K) suggest the feasibility of the proposed process, in terms of the endothermic and irreversible chemisorption results; moreover, ion exchange was evaluated through the EDS results. The X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the unknown irradiated mineral is mainly composed of quartz (SiO2), calcite (CaCO3), and calcium magnesium silicate (Ca0.15Mg0.85) Mg (SiO6).
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Tagne-Fotso R, Leroyer A, Howsam M, Dehon B, Richeval C, Nisse C. Current sources of lead exposure and their relative contributions to the blood lead levels in the general adult population of Northern France: The IMEPOGE Study, 2008-2010. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2016; 79:245-265. [PMID: 27074096 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1149131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
There is justification for limiting lead (Pb) exposure as much as possible, given its impact on health at low concentrations. Consequently, the aim of this study was to measure blood lead levels (BLL) and examine exposure factors related to BLL variations in the general adult population of northern France, a current and past industrial area. Two thousand inhabitants of northern France, aged between 20 and 59 years, were recruited using the quota method with caution. Blood lead levels were quantified by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS), and variation factors were studied separately in men and women using multivariate stepwise linear and logistic regression models. The geometric mean of the BLL was 18.8 μg/L (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18.3-19.3). Occupational factors affected BLL only in men and represented 14% of total explained variance of BLL. External occupational factors significantly increasing mean levels of BLL were tobacco, consumption of some beverages (wine, coffee, tea, and/or tap water), raw vegetables, housing characteristics (built prior to 1948, Pb piping in the home) and do-it-yourself or leisure activities (paint stripping or rifle shooting). Consumption habits accounted together for 25% and 18% of the total explained variance, respectively, in men and women. Industrial environment did not significantly contribute to BLL variations. Blood lead levels observed in the general population of this industrial part of France did not appear to be excessively elevated compared to values found internationally. Nonetheless, these BLL remain a public health issue in regard to nonthreshold toxicity attributed to Pb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romuald Tagne-Fotso
- a Univ. Lille, EA 4483 -IMPECS-IMPact de l'Environnement Chimique sur la Santé humaine , Département Universitaire de Médecine et Santé au Travail , Lille , France
| | - Ariane Leroyer
- a Univ. Lille, EA 4483 -IMPECS-IMPact de l'Environnement Chimique sur la Santé humaine , Département Universitaire de Médecine et Santé au Travail , Lille , France
- b CHU Lille, Pôle de Santé Publique , Lille , France
| | - Mike Howsam
- c Univ. Lille, Centre Universitaire de Mesures et d'Analyses , Lille , France
| | - Betty Dehon
- d CHU Lille , Laboratoire de Toxicologie et Génopathies , Lille , France
| | - Camille Richeval
- d CHU Lille , Laboratoire de Toxicologie et Génopathies , Lille , France
| | - Catherine Nisse
- a Univ. Lille, EA 4483 -IMPECS-IMPact de l'Environnement Chimique sur la Santé humaine , Département Universitaire de Médecine et Santé au Travail , Lille , France
- b CHU Lille, Pôle de Santé Publique , Lille , France
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Jinzhu Y, Qinli Z, Jin Y, Pan K, Jianjun H, Qiao N. Aluminum and benzo[a]pyrene co-operate to induce neuronal apoptosis in vitro . J Toxicol Sci 2015; 40:365-73. [PMID: 25971159 DOI: 10.2131/jts.40.365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yin Jinzhu
- Department of Occupational Health, Institute of Preventive Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Datong Coal Mine General Hospital, China
| | - Zhang Qinli
- Department of Occupational Health, Institute of Preventive Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Yang Jin
- Department of Occupational Health, Institute of Preventive Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Kang Pan
- Department of Occupational Health, Institute of Preventive Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, China
| | - Huang Jianjun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Datong Coal Mine General Hospital, China
| | - Niu Qiao
- Department of Occupational Health, Institute of Preventive Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, China
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