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Beckett EM, Abelmann A, Roberts B, Lewis RC, Cheatham D, Miller EW, Hall E, Pierce JS. An updated evaluation of reported no-observed adverse effect levels for chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite asbestos for lung cancer and mesothelioma. Crit Rev Toxicol 2023; 53:611-657. [PMID: 38126124 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2023.2283169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
This analysis updates two previous analyses that evaluated the exposure-response relationships for lung cancer and mesothelioma in chrysotile-exposed cohorts. We reviewed recently published studies, as well as updated information from previous studies. Based on the 16 studies considered for chrysotile (<10% amphibole), we identified the "no-observed adverse effect level" (NOAEL) for lung cancer and/or mesothelioma; it should be noted that smoking or previous or concurrent occupational exposure to amphiboles (if it existed) was not controlled for. NOAEL values ranged from 2.3-<11.5 f/cc-years to 1600-3200 f/cc-years for lung cancer and from 100-<400 f/cc-years to 800-1599 f/cc-years for mesothelioma. The range of best-estimate NOAELs was estimated to be 97-175 f/cc-years for lung cancer and 250-379 f/cc-years for mesothelioma. None of the six cohorts of cement or friction product manufacturing workers exhibited an increased risk at any exposure level, while all but one of the six studies of textile workers reported an increased risk at one or more exposure levels. This is likely because friction and cement workers were exposed to much shorter chrysotile fibers. Only eight cases of peritoneal mesothelioma were reported in all studies on predominantly chrysotile-exposed cohorts combined. This analysis also proposed best-estimate amosite and crocidolite NOAELs for mesothelioma derived by the application of relative potency estimates to the best-estimate chrysotile NOAELs for mesothelioma and validated by epidemiology studies with exposure-response information. The best-estimate amosite and crocidolite NOAELs for mesothelioma were 2-5 f/cc-years and 0.6-1 f/cc-years, respectively. The rate of peritoneal mesothelioma in amosite- and crocidolite-exposed cohorts was between approximately 70- to 100-fold and several-hundred-fold higher than in chrysotile-exposed cohorts, respectively. These findings will help characterize potential worker and consumer health risks associated with historical and current chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ethan Hall
- Benchmark Risk Group, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
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Maille A, Paleiron N, Grassin F, André M, Dewitte JD, Pougnet R. [Asbestos in the National Navy: Employment-exposure matrix]. REVUE DE PNEUMOLOGIE CLINIQUE 2018; 74:436-443. [PMID: 30269937 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneumo.2018.08.002] [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: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The odd risk ratio for an asbestos-related disease is 6.9 for National Defense personnel and 94% of the victims who are compensated belong to the French Navy. While employment-exposure matrices exist for the civilian environment, none are available to the military. Our work consists of the creation of the first employment-exposure matrix in the French Navy, in order to optimize post-occupational medical surveillance. METHOD We conducted a bibliographic search for asbestos in naval repair, naval embarking and foreign navies. From databases such as Medline, Pubmed, we used the following keywords "Navy", "Asbestos", "Shypyard" and "Military" and we have extended ourselves to the registers of existing theses on the subject. RESULTS Epidemiological and bibliographic data confirm the increased risk in the French Navy. Three variables are important in the proposal of this employment-exposure matrix: employment, year of arming the ship and duration of embarkation. There is a major risk for personnel whose work is in direct contact with asbestos, in particular machine personnel, irrespective of their duration of exposure. For embarked personnel who do not have direct contact with asbestos in their jobs, the increase in risk depends essentially on the ship's year of arming and the presence of asbestos, whether or not on board, as well as the duration of exposure of seafarers. CONCLUSION These results allow us to recommend a classification of the risk in accordance with the recommendations of the French Health Authority and to propose an adequate post-professional follow-up for the personnel of the Navy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Maille
- Centre médical du 44(e) Régiment de transmission, 67190 Mutzig, France
| | - N Paleiron
- Service des maladies respiratoires, HIA Clermont-Tonnerre, 29200 Brest, France
| | - F Grassin
- Service des maladies respiratoires, HIA Clermont-Tonnerre, 29200 Brest, France
| | - M André
- Service des maladies respiratoires, HIA Clermont-Tonnerre, 29200 Brest, France
| | - J D Dewitte
- Centre des maladies professionnelles et environnementales, CHRU Morvan, 29200 Brest, France; EA 3149, laboratoire d'études et de recherches en sociologie, LABERS, université de Bretagne Occidentale, 29200 Brest, France
| | - R Pougnet
- Centre des maladies professionnelles et environnementales, CHRU Morvan, 29200 Brest, France; EA 3149, laboratoire d'études et de recherches en sociologie, LABERS, université de Bretagne Occidentale, 29200 Brest, France.
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Barlow CA, Sahmel J, Paustenbach DJ, Henshaw JL. History of knowledge and evolution of occupational health and regulatory aspects of asbestos exposure science: 1900-1975. Crit Rev Toxicol 2017; 47:286-316. [PMID: 28328293 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2016.1258391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The understanding by industrial hygienists of the hazards of asbestos and appropriate ways to characterize and control exposure has evolved over the years. Here, a detailed analysis of the evolution of industrial hygiene practices regarding asbestos and its health risks, from the early 1900s until the advent of the national occupational health and safety regulatory structure currently in place in the US (early-to-mid 1970s) is presented. While industrial hygienists recognized in the early 1900s that chronic and high-level exposures to airborne concentrations of asbestos could pose a serious health hazard, it was not until the mid-1950s that the carcinogenic nature of asbestos began to be characterized and widespread concern followed. With the introduction of the membrane filter sampling method in the late 1960s and early 1970s, asbestos sampling and exposure assessment capabilities advanced to a degree which allowed industrial hygienists to more precisely characterize the exposure-response relationship. The ability of industrial hygienists, analytical chemists, toxicologists, and physicians to more accurately define this relationship was instrumental to the scientific community's ability to establish Occupational Exposure Levels (OELs) for asbestos. These early developments set the stage for decades of additional study on asbestos exposure potential and risk of disease. This was followed by the application of engineering controls and improved respiratory protection which, over the years, saved thousands of lives. This paper represents a state-of-the-art review of the knowledge of asbestos within the industrial hygiene community from about 1900 to 1975.
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Dodge DG, Beck BD. Historical state of knowledge of the health risks of asbestos posed to seamen on merchant ships. Inhal Toxicol 2016; 28:637-657. [DOI: 10.1080/08958378.2016.1244228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Park EK, Yates DH, Wilson D. Lung Function Profiles among Individuals with Nonmalignant Asbestos-related Disorders. Saf Health Work 2014; 5:234-7. [PMID: 25516818 PMCID: PMC4266811 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2014.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2014] [Revised: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to adverse health effects on the lungs. This study describes lung function profiles among individuals with nonmalignant asbestos-related disorders (ARDs). Methods The study population was from the Workers' Compensation (Dust Diseases) Board of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia. Lung function measurements were conducted in males with asbestosis (n = 26), diffuse pleural thickening (DPT; n = 129), asbestosis and DPT (n = 14), pleural plaques only (n = 160) and also apparently healthy individuals with a history of asbestos exposure (n = 248). Standardized spirometric and single-breath diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) measurements were used. Results Mean age [standard deviation (SD)] was 66.7 (10.3) years for all participants. Current and ex-smokers among all participants comprised about 9.0% and 54.8%, respectively. Median pack-years (SD) of smoking for ex- and current-smokers were 22.7 (19.9). Overall 222 participants (38.6%) and 139 participants (24.2%) had forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) measurements < 80% predicted, and 217 participants (37.7%) had FEV1/FVC results < 70%. A total of 249 individuals (43.8%) had DLco values < 80% predicted and only 75 (13.2%) had DLco/VA results < 80% predicted. A total of 147 participants (25.6%) had peak expiratory flow (PEF) measurements < 80% predicted. The presence of ARDs lowered the lung function measurements compared to those of healthy individuals exposed to asbestos. Conclusion Lung function measurement differs in individuals with different ARDs. Monitoring of lung function among asbestos-exposed populations is a simple means of facilitating earlier interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Kee Park
- Department of Medical Humanities and Social Medicine, College of Medicine, Kosin University, Busan, Korea
| | - Deborah H Yates
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Donald Wilson
- Department of Occupational Toxicology, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
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Franke K, Paustenbach D. Government and Navy knowledge regarding health hazards of asbestos: A state of the science evaluation (1900 to 1970). Inhal Toxicol 2011; 23 Suppl 3:1-20. [DOI: 10.3109/08958378.2011.643417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Santarelli L, Strafella E, Staffolani S, Amati M, Emanuelli M, Sartini D, Pozzi V, Carbonari D, Bracci M, Pignotti E, Mazzanti P, Sabbatini A, Ranaldi R, Gasparini S, Neuzil J, Tomasetti M. Association of MiR-126 with soluble mesothelin-related peptides, a marker for malignant mesothelioma. PLoS One 2011; 6:e18232. [PMID: 21483773 PMCID: PMC3069972 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0018232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2010] [Accepted: 02/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Improved detection methods for diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma
(MPM) are essential for early and reliable detection as well as treatment.
Since recent data point to abnormal levels of microRNAs (miRNAs) in tumors,
we hypothesized that a profile of deregulated miRNAs may be a marker of MPM
and that the levels of specific miRNAs may be used for monitoring its
progress. Methods and Results miRNAs isolated from fresh-frozen biopsies of MPM patients were tested for
the expression of 88 types of miRNA involved in cancerogenesis. Most of the
tested miRNAs were downregulated in the malignant tissues compared with the
normal tissues. Of eight significantly downregulated, three miRNAs were
assayed in cancerous tissue and adjacent non-cancerous tissue sample pairs
collected from 27 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded MPM tissues by
quantitative RT-PCR. Among the miRNAs tested, only miR-126 significantly
remained downregulated in the malignant tissues. Furthermore, the
performance of the selected miR-126 as biomarker was evaluated in serum
samples of asbestos-exposed subjects and MPM patients and compared with
controls. MiR-126 was not affected by asbestos exposure, whereas it was
found strongly associated with VEGF serum levels. Levels of miR-126 in
serum, and its levels in patients' serum in association with a specific
marker of MPM, SMRPs, correlate with subjects at high risk to develop
MPM. Conclusions and Significance We propose miR-126, in association with SMRPs, as a marker for early
detection of MPM. The identification of tumor biomarkers used alone or, in
particular, in combination could greatly facilitate the surveillance
procedure for cohorts of subjects exposed to asbestos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lory Santarelli
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Innovative Therapies, Polytechnic
University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Strafella
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Innovative Therapies, Polytechnic
University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Sara Staffolani
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Innovative Therapies, Polytechnic
University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monica Amati
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Innovative Therapies, Polytechnic
University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Monica Emanuelli
- Department of Biochemistry, Biology and Genetics, Polytechnic University
of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Davide Sartini
- Department of Biochemistry, Biology and Genetics, Polytechnic University
of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Valentina Pozzi
- Department of Biochemistry, Biology and Genetics, Polytechnic University
of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Damiano Carbonari
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Innovative Therapies, Polytechnic
University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Massimo Bracci
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Innovative Therapies, Polytechnic
University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elettra Pignotti
- Department of Statistic Science, University of Bologna, Bologna,
Italy
| | - Paola Mazzanti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital University of Ancona, Ancona,
Italy
| | | | - Renzo Ranaldi
- Pathological Anatomy Unit, Hospital University of Ancona, Ancona,
Italy
| | | | - Jiri Neuzil
- Apoptosis Research Group, School of Medical Science and Griffith Health
Institute, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
- Molecular Therapy Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Academy of Sciences
of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marco Tomasetti
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Innovative Therapies, Polytechnic
University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Rutstein DD, Mullan RJ, Frazier TM, Halperin WE, Melius JM, Sestito JP. Sentinel Health Events (Occupational): A Basis for Physician Recognition and Public Health Surveillance. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1080/00039896.1984.9939518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Abejie BA, Wang X, Kales SN, Christiani DC. Patterns of pulmonary dysfunction in asbestos workers: a cross-sectional study. J Occup Med Toxicol 2010; 5:12. [PMID: 20525229 PMCID: PMC2890695 DOI: 10.1186/1745-6673-5-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2010] [Accepted: 06/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Restrictive patterns of pulmonary function abnormalities associated with asbestos exposure are well described. Studies are less consistent, however, regarding the association of asbestos inhalation with airway dysfunction and obstructive impairment. METHODS We compared pulmonary function test results between 277 chrysotile exposed workers (22% non-smokers) and 177 unexposed controls (50.3% non-smokers). Information on exposure and smoking were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Standardized spirometric and DCLO Measurement methods were utilized. CXRs were read based on ILO pneumoconiosis guidelines. RESULTS Asbestos exposed subjects had significantly reduced FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC and DLCO. Restricting the analysis to non-smokers, asbestos workers still had about 3% lower FEV1/FVC ratio than controls, but this difference did not reach statistical significance. Among exposed workers, the presence of radiographic evidence of asbestosis further lowered FVC and DLCO but not FEV1/FVC compared to asbestos exposure without radiographic asbestosis. Additionally, smoking asbestos workers had significantly lower DLCO compared to non-smoking workers. CONCLUSION Asbestos exposure, especially when radiographic evidence of interstitial fibrosis from asbestosis is present, leads to significant decreases in FVC, FEV1 and the DLCO. However, asbestos exposure alone is not significantly associated with a reduction of the FEV1/FVC. Smoking-asbestos workers had significantly lower DLCO than their non-smoking counterparts. Whether asbestos interacts with smoking additively or synergistically on DLCO needs further investigation. Similarly, further studies are needed to assess the progression and clinical significance of asbestos induced airway dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belayneh A Abejie
- University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, Fresno Medical Education Program, Fresno, CA, USA
| | - Xiaorong Wang
- School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, SAR, China
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Hollins DM, Paustenbach DJ, Clark K, Mangold CA. A visual historical review of exposure to asbestos at puget sound naval shipyard (1962-1972). JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2009; 12:124-156. [PMID: 19235622 DOI: 10.1080/10937400902729176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The study of occupational exposure to asbestos has been an ongoing activity for at least 75 years, dating back to the papers of Merewether and Price (1930). Since that time, literally tens of thousands of air samples have been collected in an attempt to characterize the concentration of asbestos associated with various activities. Many of the individuals who developed diseases from the 1970s to the current day were often exposed to very high airborne concentrations because of direct or indirect exposure to either raw asbestos fiber or insulation during the approximate 1940-1970 time period. Often, these high exposures were associated with work in shipyards during and after World War II and the Korean War, as well as with decommissioning, which continued into the mid-1970s. This study reviews the historical asbestos concentrations measured in shipyards and presents a visual illustration of typical conditions and work practices. A majority of the photographs presented in this article depict work conditions at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, circa 1940-1965, which is representative of other military shipyards of the time.
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Amati M, Tomasetti M, Mariotti L, Tarquini LM, Valentino M, Santarelli L. Assessment of biomarkers in asbestos-exposed workers as indicators of cancer risk. Mutat Res 2008; 655:52-8. [PMID: 18638565 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2008.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2008] [Revised: 05/13/2008] [Accepted: 06/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have shown that mortality from malignant mesothelioma (MM) and lung cancer have increased with increasing cumulative exposure to asbestos. To investigate whether tumour-related biomarkers can contribute towards the evaluation of the carcinogenic risk in populations exposed to asbestos, the DNA adduct 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (80HdG), interleukine-6 (IL-6), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-BB), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFbeta) and soluble mesothelin-related peptides (SMRPs) were analysed in a cohort of workers differently exposed to asbestos fibres at the workplace. To document biomarker levels in an unexposed population, 54 age-matched subjects were enrolled. A total of 119 subjects with a history of occupational exposure to asbestos underwent clinical examination and were interviewed by trained personnel, responding to a detailed questionnaire related to duration of asbestos exposure, smoking, and occupational task. According to the occupational tasks, asbestos-exposed subjects were analysed for their asbestos cumulative dose and the association with the biomarkers was evaluated. Among the occupational groups, maintenance workers, pipe fitters and electricians were exposed to a higher cumulative dose of asbestos fibres. Exposure to asbestos significantly increased the steady-state content of 80HdG in DNA. Elevated levels of 80HdG and IL-6 best reflected a high level of SMRPs, which is related to cell transformation. Subjects heavily exposed to asbestos [> 60(ff/cm3) x years] showed also a higher level of angiogenic factors. A combination of angiogenic biomarkers with a specific mesothelioma-biomarker such as SMRPs could be used for close surveillance of workers with a history of asbestos exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Amati
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Innovative Therapies, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.
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MUSK AW, HENDERSON DW. PULMONARY ASBESTOSIS - AN EXAMPLE OF INDUSTRIAL DIFFUSE LUNG DISEASE. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1445-5994.1984.tb04349.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Williams PRD, Phelka AD, Paustenbach DJ. A review of historical exposures to asbestos among skilled craftsmen (1940-2006). JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2007; 10:319-77. [PMID: 17687724 DOI: 10.1080/10937400601034191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
This article provides a review and synthesis of the published and selected unpublished literature on historical asbestos exposures among skilled craftsmen in various nonshipyard and shipyard settings. The specific crafts evaluated were insulators, pipefitters, boilermakers, masons, welders, sheet-metal workers, millwrights, electricians, carpenters, painters, laborers, maintenance workers, and abatement workers. Over 50 documents were identified and summarized. Sufficient information was available to quantitatively characterize historical asbestos exposures for the most highly exposed workers (insulators), even though data were lacking for some job tasks or time periods. Average airborne fiber concentrations collected for the duration of the task and/or the entire work shift were found to range from about 2 to 10 fibers per cubic centimeter (cm3 or cc) during activities performed by insulators in various nonshipyard settings from the late 1960s and early 1970s. Higher exposure levels were observed for this craft during the 1940s to 1950s, when dust counts were converted from millions of particles per cubic foot (mppcf) to units of fibers per cubic centimeter (fibers/cc) using a 1:6 conversion factor. Similar tasks performed in U.S. shipyards yielded average fiber concentrations about two-fold greater, likely due to inadequate ventilation and confined work environments; however, excessively high exposure levels were reported in some British Naval shipyards due to the spraying of asbestos. Improved industrial hygiene practices initiated in the early to mid-1970s were found to reduce average fiber concentrations for insulator tasks approximately two- to five-fold. For most other crafts, average fiber concentrations were found to typically range from <0.01 to 1 fibers/cc (depending on the task or time period), with higher concentrations observed during the use of powered tools, the mixing or sanding of drywall cement, and the cleanup of asbestos insulation or lagging materials. The available evidence suggests that although many historical measurements exceeded the current OSHA 8-h time-weighted average (TWA) permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 0.1 fibers/cc, average fiber concentrations generally did not exceed historical occupational exposure limits in place at the time, except perhaps during ripout activities or the spraying of asbestos in enclosed spaces or onboard ships. Additionally, reported fiber concentrations may not have represented daily or actual human exposures to asbestos, since few samples were collected beyond specific short-term tasks and workers sometimes wore respiratory protective equipment. The available data were not sufficient to determine whether the airborne fiber concentrations represented serpentine or amphibole asbestos fibers, which would have a pronounced impact on the potential health hazards posed by the asbestos. Despite a number of limitations associated with the available air sampling data, the information should provide guidance for reconstructing asbestos exposures for different crafts in specific occupational settings where asbestos was present during the 1940 to 2006 time period.
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Williams P, Paustenbach D, Balzer JL, Mangold C. Retrospective exposure assessment of airborne asbestos related to skilled craftsmen at a petroleum refinery in Beaumont, Texas (1940-2006). JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2007; 70:1076-107. [PMID: 17558804 DOI: 10.1080/15287390701208305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Despite efforts over the past 50 or more years to estimate airborne dust or fiber concentrations for specific job tasks within different industries, there have been no known attempts to reconstruct historical asbestos exposures for the many types of trades employed in various nonmanufacturing settings. In this paper, 8-h time-weighted average (TWA) asbestos exposures were estimated for 12 different crafts from the 1940s to the present day at a large petroleum refinery in Beaumont, TX. The crafts evaluated were insulators, pipefitters, boilermakers, masons, welders, sheet-metal workers, millwrights, electricians, carpenters, painters, laborers, and maintenance workers. This analysis quantitatively accounts for (1) the historical use of asbestos-containing materials at the refinery, (2) the typical workday of the different crafts and specific opportunities for exposure to asbestos, (3) industrial hygiene asbestos air monitoring data collected at this refinery and similar facilities since the early 1970s, (4) published and unpublished data sets on task-specific dust or fiber concentrations encountered in various industrial settings since the late 1930s, and (5) the evolution of respirator use and other workplace practices that occurred as the hazards of asbestos became better understood over time. Due to limited air monitoring data for most crafts, 8-h TWA fiber concentrations were calculated only for insulators, while all other crafts were estimated to have experienced 8-h TWA fiber concentrations at some fraction of that experienced by insulators. A probabilistic (Monte Carlo) model was used to account for potential variability in the various data sets and the uncertainty in our knowledge of selected input parameters used to estimate exposure. Significant reliance was also placed on our collective professional experiences working in the fields of industrial hygiene, exposure assessment, and process engineering over the last 40 yr. Insulators at this refinery were estimated to have experienced 50th (and 95th) percentile 8-h TWA asbestos exposures (which incorporated 8-h TWA fiber concentrations, respirator use and effectiveness, and time spent working with asbestos-containing materials) of 9 (16) fibers/cc (cubic centimeter) from 1940 to 1950, 8 (13) fibers/cc from 1951 to 1965, 2 (5) fibers/cc from 1966 to 1971, 0.3 (0.5) fibers/cc from 1972 to 1975, and 0.005 (0.02) fibers/cc from 1976 to 1985 (estimated exposures were <0.001 fibers/cc after 1985). Estimated 8-h TWA exposures for all other crafts were at least 50- to 100-fold less than that of insulators, with the exception of laborers, whose estimated 8-h TWA exposures were approximately one-fifth to one-tenth of those of insulators. In spite of the data gaps, the available evidence indicates that our estimates of 8-h TWA asbestos exposures reasonably characterize the typical range of values for these categories of workers over time.
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Murphy R. Computerized multichannel lung sound analysis. Development of acoustic instruments for diagnosis and management of medical conditions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 26:16-9. [PMID: 17278768 DOI: 10.1109/memb.2007.289117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Raymond Murphy
- Dept. of Pulmonary Medicine, Brigham & Women, Faulkner Hospital, Boston, MA 02130, USA.
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Mangold C, Clark K, Madl A, Paustenbach D. An exposure study of bystanders and workers during the installation and removal of asbestos gaskets and packing. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2006; 3:87-98. [PMID: 16418082 DOI: 10.1080/15459620500498067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
From 1982 until 1991, a series of studies was performed to evaluate the airborne concentration of chrysotile asbestos associated with replacing gaskets and packing materials. These studies were conducted by the senior author in response to concerns raised by a report from the Navy in 1978 on asbestos exposures associated with gasket work. A series of studies was conducted because results of those who worked with gaskets within the Navy study did not address the background concentrations of asbestos in the work areas, which may have been significant due to the presence of asbestos insulation in the ships and shipyards. The intent of the studies performed from 1982 through 1991 was to re-create the Navy's work practices in a contaminant-free environment during an 8-hour workday (so the data could be compared with the OSHA permissible exposure limit [PEL]). Samples were collected to characterize personal and area airborne asbestos concentrations associated with the formation, removal, and storage of gaskets, as well as the scraping of flanges and the replacement of valve packing. The results indicate that the 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) exposures of pipefitters and other tradesmen who performed these activities were below the current PEL and all previous PELs. Specifically, the highest average 8-hour TWA concentration measured for workers manipulating asbestos gaskets during this study was 0.030 f/cc (during gasket removal and flange face scraping onboard a naval ship). Likewise, the 8-hour TWA breathing zone concentrations of a worker removing and replacing asbestos valve packing did not exceed 0.016 f/cc. In most cases, the concentrations were not distinguishable from ambient levels of asbestos in the ships or the general environment. These results are not surprising given that asbestos fibers in gasket materials are encapsulated within a binder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl Mangold
- Environmental Control Sciences, Inc., Bellevue, Washington, USA
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18
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Shipley RT. THE 1980 ILO CLASSIFICATION OF RADIOGRAPHS OF THE PNEUMOCONIOSES. Radiol Clin North Am 1992. [DOI: 10.1016/s0033-8389(22)00857-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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19
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20
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Rom WN. Accelerated loss of lung function and alveolitis in a longitudinal study of non-smoking individuals with occupational exposure to asbestos. Am J Ind Med 1992; 21:835-44. [PMID: 1621691 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.4700210606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Long-term asbestos workers who insulate pipes and boilers may develop interstitial lung disease associated with loss of lung function. To quantitate annual loss of lung function, 77 individuals with chest X-rays greater than or equal to 1/0 ILO category who were life-long non-smokers or ex-smokers for greater than 5 years were evaluated. Study parameters included pulmonary function tests and bronchoalveolar lavage for a mean of 3 visits over 30 +/- 2 months. The study participants were 56 +/- 1 years old and had 31 +/- 1 years' occupational exposure to asbestos. At the first visit, multiple regression analysis revealed significant associations between rales or radiographic opacities and VC, FEV1, and total lung capacity; significant associations were also found between neutrophils/ml lavage fluid with FEV1 and diffusing capacity (all p less than 0.05). Annual declines for the asbestos-exposed were VC -92 +/- 28 ml/yr and FEV1 -66 +/- 21 ml/yr. Declines in VC and FEV1 were less in those with reduced lung function at the initial visit. There were no significant associations between any of the annual declines and cells recovered by bronchoalveolar lavage. Compared to other asbestos-exposed cohorts followed longitudinally, asbestos insulators with radiographs greater than or equal to 1/0 and exposure greater than or equal to 20 years have larger rates of FVC and FEV1 decline for both non-smokers and ex-smokers.
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Affiliation(s)
- W N Rom
- Department of Medicine, Bellevue Hospital, New York University Medical Center, New York 10016
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21
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Case records of the Massachusetts General Hospital. Weekly clinicopathological exercises. Case 36-1990. A 42-year-old woman with pleural disease, chylous ascites, and lymphadenopathy. N Engl J Med 1990; 323:659-67. [PMID: 2385269 DOI: 10.1056/nejm199009063231008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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22
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Abstract
During the periodic medical examination of workers of the only asbestos-cement pipe factory in Kuwait, an early case of asbestosis was diagnosed. It was the first case of asbestosis to be reported and compensated in Kuwait. According to available information, it is also the first reported case to be confirmed by surgery in the Arabian Gulf countries. Recommendations are given in regard to diagnosis, the institution of very strict preventive and protective measures, and the system of compensation in Kuwaiti law.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Y Mohamed
- Department of Community Medicine, Mansoura University, Kuwait
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23
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Anton-Culver H, Culver BD, Kurosaki T. An Epidemiologic Study of Asbestos-Related Chest X-ray Changes to Identify Work Areas of High Risk in a Shipyard Population. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1989. [DOI: 10.1080/08828032.1989.10390382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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24
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Friedman AC, Fiel SB. Roentgenographic Underestimation of Early Asbestosis. Chest 1989. [DOI: 10.1378/chest.95.5.1166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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25
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Cavalleri A, Gobba F, Bacchella L, Luberto F, Ziccardi A. Serum type III procollagen peptide in asbestos workers: an early indicator of pulmonary fibrosis. BRITISH JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL MEDICINE 1988; 45:818-23. [PMID: 3219307 PMCID: PMC1009702 DOI: 10.1136/oem.45.12.818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Serum type III procollagen peptide (PIIIP) concentrations were determined in 36 male workers exposed to asbestos fibres in the production of asbestos cement items and in 13 healthy male controls. Mean (SD) PIIIP serum concentrations were 9.3 (1.5) ng/ml (range 7-12) in the controls and 13.7 (3.5)ng/ml (range 7.5-20) in the asbestos workers; the difference was statistically significant (p less than 0.01). The exposed workers were subdivided according to presence or absence of radiological signs of asbestosis and intensity and duration of exposure. PIIIP serum values of workers with asbestos related interstitial fibrosis were the highest of the groups at 14.6 (2.3) ng/ml. In workers with heavy exposure the PIIIP values were significantly related to duration of exposure (r = 0.95; p less than 0.01). PIIIP serum values may be a useful index for the early diagnosis of asbestos induced pulmonary fibrosis and its use should be considered as part of the biological monitoring of exposed workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cavalleri
- Cattedra di Medicina del Lavoro, Università di Modena, Italy
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26
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Robins TG, Green MA. Respiratory morbidity in workers exposed to asbestos in the primary manufacture of building materials. Am J Ind Med 1988; 14:433-48. [PMID: 3189358 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.4700140407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Former employees (214) of a plant that manufactured asbestos-containing building materials (wallboard and acoustic tile) from 1958 through 1974 were screened for asbestos-related pulmonary disease. Results are presented on 182 union members whose names appeared on a 1966 seniority list in one of six departments believed to have had substantial asbestos exposure. The study population demonstrated a high frequency of pulmonary abnormalities often associated with asbestos exposure: low mean forced vital capacity percent of predicted (FVC % predicted), low mean forced expiratory volume at one second percent of predicted (FEV1 % predicted), presence of parenchymal abnormalities (40.1% with profusion scores of 1/0 or higher), and 30.5% with bilateral pleural abnormalities on chest roentgenograms. In addition, râles in two or more locations were found in 22.8% on examination of the chest, 30.6% gave a history of chronic bronchitis, and 34.8% of dyspnea grade two or higher. Calculated asbestos exposure scores, based upon participant recall, were not found to be associated with these abnormalities. The abnormal findings were not adequately explained by potential confounders such as cigarette smoking. Other notable findings in this study include the presence of smoking-adjusted decrements in pulmonary function associated with moderate profusion scores (i.e., 1/0 and 1/1) and the presence of a substantial degree of obstructive lung disease (19.2%) in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- T G Robins
- Department of Environmental and Industrial Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109-2029
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27
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Case records of the Massachusetts General Hospital. Weekly clinicopathological exercises. Case 32-1986. A 74-year-old man with increasing dyspnea. N Engl J Med 1986; 315:437-49. [PMID: 3736621 DOI: 10.1056/nejm198608143150707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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28
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Abstract
Among 1,577 persons with asbestos exposure followed up from 3 to 30 years, 113 had thoracic surgical procedures for asbestos-related disorders. Twenty-six individuals suspected of having asbestosis with atypical features underwent open-lung biopsy; a different disease was revealed in 14. Most of the 29 patients with mesothelioma had a small thoracotomy for diagnosis only; chemotherapy in half of them proved entirely ineffective. Experience with 23 patients with bronchogenic carcinoma did not differ from that in persons not exposed to asbestos. Problems of causal relationship are discussed. Most of the 68 individuals with benign asbestos pleural effusion had no symptoms, but because of recurrence, 15 were operated on for decortication or for possible mesothelioma. Hyaline plaques often were mistaken for lung, rib, or diaphragmatic tumors, and sometimes mesothelioma was suspected. Operative intervention in the 24 patients with plaques could have been avoided by obtaining a more detailed occupational history and reviewing previous chest roentgenograms, which invariably showed identical or smaller plaques from 2 to 17 years earlier.
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29
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Myers JE, Garisch D, Myers HS, Cornell JE, Rwexu RD. A respiratory epidemiological study of stevedores intermittently exposed to asbestos in a South African port. Am J Ind Med 1985; 7:273-83. [PMID: 3873173 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.4700070403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of asbestosis in stevedores intermittently transporting crocidolite asbestos in a South African port was found to be 30% in a cross-sectional survey. Diagnostic criteria are discussed in terms of the low index of suspicion for industrial diseases, the high probability of missing slight radiological changes, and the attribution of radiological lesions to other diseases, particularly tuberculosis, in a high prevalence area. Results are compared with other studies. Asbestosis was not associated with tuberculosis. Smoking was not significantly associated with asbestosis, other respiratory signs and symptoms, or radiological abnormality.
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30
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Bégin R, Cantin A, Berthiaume Y, Boileau R, Bisson G, Lamoureux G, Rola-Pleszczynski M, Drapeau G, Massé S, Boctor M. Clinical features to stage alveolitis in asbestos workers. Am J Ind Med 1985; 8:521-36. [PMID: 3000173 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.4700080604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
To analyze the clinical features of asbestos-induced alveolitis and stage its activity, we evaluated 217 asbestos workers by the usual clinical, radiological, and functional parameters and computerized gallium 67(Ga) lung scan; we obtained bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in 33 and lung biopsy in 6. In addition, we scored the profusion of lung rales and correlated it with other parameters of severity of asbestosis. In the 55 workers without asbestosis and normal 67Ga scan, BAL analyses were comparable to those of controls. Of the 56 without asbestosis but increased 67Ga lung uptake, BAL analyses in 8 documented a predominantly macrophagic alveolitis (confirmed on lung biopsy in 3), with the highest levels of BAL fibronectin. In the 106 workers with asbestosis, 67Ga lung uptake was increased in 75; BAL in 17 demonstrated a macrophagic and neutrophilic alveolitis with elevated fibronectin levels. Lung biopsy in 3 of the latter workers documented peribronchiolar fibrosing alveolitis. Rale scores in all workers or in those without asbestosis did not correlate with 67Ga scores; they correlated fairly well with profusion of parenchymal opacities (Rs = 0.42) and rigidity of the lung pressure-volume curve (Rs = 0.39). Thus, 67Ga lung uptake is an early indicator of chronic macrophagic alveolitis in asbestos workers, which usually progresses to asbestosis. In the disease, profusion of lung rales constitutes a simple clinical mode of assessment of disease severity that correlates better with radiological and functional parameters than with parameters of alveolitis.
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31
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Picado C, Roisin RR, Sala H, Agusti-Vidal A. Diagnosis of asbestosis. Clinical, radiological and lung function data in 42 patients. Lung 1984; 162:325-35. [PMID: 6527564 DOI: 10.1007/bf02715665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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32
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Siracusa A, Cicioni C, Volpi R, Canalicchi P, Brugnami G, Comodi AR, Abbritti G. Lung function among asbestos cement factory workers: cross-sectional and longitudinal study. Am J Ind Med 1984; 5:315-25. [PMID: 6609638 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.4700050408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Ventilatory capacity tests and standardized respiratory questionnaires were used in 1973 and in 1980 to measure the effect of mixed dust exposure in the asbestos cement industry on respiratory symptoms and lung function in 65 exposed workers and 30 controls (exposed to polyvinyl chloride but not to asbestos). Workers exposed to asbestos had 1) a higher prevalence of breathlessness and chest pain, and a higher incidence of breathlessness; 2) lower 1980 values of forced vital capacity (FVC) (0.27-0.83 liters) and forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) (0.23-0.62 liters); and 3) a faster decline (nearly 40 ml/year) in FVC and FEV1 between 1973 and 1980. The FVC annual decrease was 52.5 ml in the subjects with more than 15 years since first asbestos exposure, whereas it was 24.3 ml in those with less than 15 years, suggesting a faster decline after 15 years of exposure. The effect of asbestos exposure and smoking habits was less than additive as regards pulmonary function.
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33
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Rutstein DD, Mullan RJ, Frazier TM, Halperin WE, Melius JM, Sestito JP. Sentinel Health Events (occupational): a basis for physician recognition and public health surveillance. Am J Public Health 1983; 73:1054-62. [PMID: 6881402 PMCID: PMC1651048 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.73.9.1054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
A Sentinel Health Event (SHE) is a preventable disease, disability, or untimely death whose occurrence serves as a warning signal that the quality of preventive and/or therapeutic medical care may need to be improved. A SHE (Occupational) is a disease, disability, or untimely death which is occupationally related and whose occurrence may: 1) provide the impetus for epidemiologic or industrial hygiene studies; or 2) serve as a warning signal that materials substitution, engineering control, personal protection, or medical care may be required. The present SHE(O) list encompasses 50 disease conditions that are linked to the workplace. Only those conditions are included for which objective documentation of an associated agent, industry, and occupation exists in the scientific literature. The list will serve as a framework for developing a national system for occupational health surveillance that may be applied at the state and local level, and as a guide for practicing physicians caring for patients with occupational illnesses. We expect to update the list periodically to accommodate new occupational disease events which meet the criteria for inclusion.
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34
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Bégin R, Rola-Pleszczynski M, Massé S, Nadeau D, Drapeau G. Assessment of progression of asbestosis in the sheep model by bronchoalveolar lavage and pulmonary function tests. Thorax 1983; 38:449-57. [PMID: 6879498 PMCID: PMC459582 DOI: 10.1136/thx.38.6.449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
To study the relationship between the results of bronchoalveolar lavage and pulmonary function tests during induction and progression of asbestosis, three groups of six sheep were exposed repeatedly by intratracheal injection to either saline (controls), low doses of Canadian chrysotile UICC asbestos (cumulative exposure 328 mg) (low-dose group), or high doses of the same fibres (cumulative dose 2282 mg) (high-dose group) until there was clear evidence of alveolitis from the lung biopsy specimens of all sheep of the high-dose group. During the course of this induction and for the following eight months lung biopsies, bronchoalveolar lavage and pulmonary function tests were performed at two-month intervals. At the time of initial alveolitis in the high-dose group there was no significant change in the cellularity of the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, but static lung compliance (Cst), vital capacity (VC), arterial oxygen tension (Pao2), and diffusion capacity (DL/VA) were significantly lower than in the other groups. In the following months, as the alveolitis evolved into a fibrosing process, macrophages and neutrophils from the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid increased significantly and pulmonary function deteriorated. Proteins and enzymes in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid also increased significantly in the high-dose group. These data show that in the sheep model of asbestosis simple tests of pulmonary function correlate well with histological changes and changes in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in the course of the disease and can be used to assess progression of asbestosis.
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35
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Case records of the Massachusetts General Hospital. Weekly clinicopathological exercises. Case 27-1982. Pleural thickening in a man with rheumatoid arthritis and exposure to asbestos. N Engl J Med 1982; 307:104-12. [PMID: 7088037 DOI: 10.1056/nejm198207083070208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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36
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Beck B, Konetzke G, Ludwig V, Röthig W, Sturm W. Malignant pericardial mesotheliomas and asbestos exposure: a case report. Am J Ind Med 1982; 3:149-59. [PMID: 7137171 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.4700030205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Three cases of malignant pericardial mesotheliomas are presented with evidence of occupational asbestos exposure. Examination results are compared with findings from experimental and epidemiological research on biological effects of asbestos dust. There are sufficient indications that time-limited effects of asbestos dust established either by measurements or assessment of the amount of concentration after a latency of more than 20 years are apt to result in the development of mesotheliomas of the pleura and peritoneum and, moreover, the pericardium. It is suggested that malignant pericardial mesothelioma also be recognized as another form of occupational disease caused by asbestos dust.
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37
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Nicholson WJ, Perkel G, Selikoff IJ. Occupational exposure to asbestos: population at risk and projected mortality--1980-2030. Am J Ind Med 1982; 3:259-311. [PMID: 7171087 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.4700030305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 202] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Estimates have been made of the numbers of cancers that are projected to result from past exposures to asbestos in a number of occupations and industries. From 1940 through 1979, 27,500,000 individuals had potential asbestos exposure at work. Of these, 18,800,000 had exposure in excess of that equivalent to two months employment in primary manufacturing or as an insulator (greater than 2-3 f-yr/ml). 21,000,000 of the 27,500,000 and 14,100,000 of the 18,800,000 are estimated to have been alive on January 1, 1980. It is further estimated that approximately 8,200 asbestos-related cancer deaths are now occurring annually. This will rise to about 9,700 annually by the year 2000. Thereafter, the mortality rate from past exposure will decrease, but still remain substantial for another three decades.
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38
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Bégin R, Rola-Pleszczynski M, Sirois P, Lemaire I, Nadeau D, Bureau MA, Massé S. Early lung events following low-dose asbestos exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 1981; 26:392-401. [PMID: 7318792 DOI: 10.1016/0013-9351(81)90215-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
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39
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Abstract
Eighty-eight shipyard workers with extensive asbestos exposure were evaluated in terms of dyspnea, smoking history, x-ray film abnormalities, static pulmonary function, and exercise performance. Pulmonary function abnormalities and roentgenographic pleuropulmonary disease were more frequent in smokers. Significant dyspnea was present in 41 percent of the workers and did not correlate with smoking history, pulmonary function, or exercise performance. Despite this high frequency of dyspnea, 70 percent of all workers had normal exercise tolerance by history of exercise testing. Of the 26 workers with exercise impairment, only nine had pulmonary mechanical or gas exchange limitation. Two of these workers had asbestosis, while the other had airways obstruction without asbestosis. The prevalence of both asbestosis and asbestos-related exercise impairment in this population was 2.3 percent.
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40
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Mitchell C, Emmerson B, Aroney C. PREVALENCE OF RESPIRATORY MORBIDITY IN BRISBANE WATERSIDE WORKERS: A STUDY OF POSSIBLE ASBESTOS‐RELATED DISEASE. Med J Aust 1981. [DOI: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.1981.tb100835.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Charles Mitchell
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Queensland
- Princess Alexandra HospitalBrisbane
| | - Brett Emmerson
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Queensland
- Princess Alexandra HospitalBrisbane
| | - Con Aroney
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Queensland
- Princess Alexandra HospitalBrisbane
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41
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Nash DR, Fortson NG, McLarty JW, Hurst GA. Serum protein concentrations and respiratory tract abnormalities following short-term exposure to amosite: a comparison between former asbestos workers and unexposed controls. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 1981; 7:733-44. [PMID: 6267319 DOI: 10.1080/15287398109530015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
A group of 176 former asbestos workers and 76 unexposed controls of similar age were evaluated and compared for concentrations of serum immunoglobulins, alpha 1-antitrypsin, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), pulmonary function, radiographic appearance of the lungs, rales, cellular atypia and ferruginous bodies in sputum, and smoking habits. Test subjects were evaluated as a single group and also according to years of exposure to asbestos. Both test and control populations were independently subjects to parametric and nonparametric correlation analyses. Partial correlations were also determined for both groups after controlling for age, race, sex and smoking habits. Analysis of variance was used to compare test and control groups. Smoking, particularly heavy smoking, was an important variable influencing abnormalities of the respiratory tract and CEA in former asbestos workers but not in controls. Except for immunoglobulin A (IgA), serum proteins, CEA, and alpha 1-antitrypsin were not significantly different between test and control subjects. Analysis of variance revealed significant increases between test and control groups for cellular atypia, X-ray abnormalities, rales, and pulmonary restriction. Partial correlation analysis of the asbestos-exposed group revealed important correlations between ferruginous bodies in sputum, rales, and radiographic appearance of the lungs.
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42
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43
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Abstract
Immunoblastic lymphadenopathy was diagnosed in a 71-year-old white man who had weakness, with weight loss, fever, cough, and generalized lymphadenopathy. The patient had a long occupational history of shipyard work. Diagnosis of asbestosis was made clinically by chest x-ray, and ferruginous bodies were found in the lung at autopsy. Recent reports have suggested a possible association between asbestos exposure and lymphoproliferative neoplasms. Chronic antigenic stimulation by asbestos could predispose one to the immunoproliferative disorder seen in this patient or be responsible for it. The possible significance of this relationship, previously unreported, is discussed for future consideration.
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44
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Lemen RA, Dement JM, Wagoner JK. Epidemiology of asbestos-related diseases. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 1980; 34:1-11. [PMID: 6993197 PMCID: PMC1568524 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.80341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
This paper is intended to give the reader an overview of the epidemiology of asbestos-related diseases and is restricted to primarily occupational exposure studies. However, some mention of nonoccupational exposures are made because of their direct relationship to a worker or to a secondary occupational source. Over 100 epidemiological studies are reviewed, dating back to the first case of asbestos-associated disease reported by Montague Murray in 1906. The studies are divided by specific fiber type and by specific disease outcomes and the interaction of asbestos and cigarette smoking is discussed in great detail.
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45
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46
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47
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Viallat JR, Boutin C. Radiographic changes in chrysotile mine and mill ex-workers in Corsica. A survey 14 years after cessation of exposure. Lung 1979; 157:155-63. [PMID: 6247583 DOI: 10.1007/bf02713612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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48
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Abstract
In a retrospective study of 49 cases of asbestosis, a steady increase in the frequency of diagnosis of asbestosis and asbestos-related neoplasia is documented from a major urban hospital since 1960. Although in the majority of cases the subjects were exposed to asbestos in a neighboring shipyard, in 20 per cent of the cases, asbestos exposure was in industries not related to shipbuilding, reflecting its widespread use. This selective population of patients with asbestosis more often than not had an associated neoplasm. The most likely accompanying tumor was pleural mesothelioma, and among cell types of lung cancer, adenocarcinoma was notably frequent.
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49
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Blot WJ, Harrington JM, Toledo A, Hoover R, Heath CW, Fraumeni JF. Lung cancer after employment in shipyards during World War II. N Engl J Med 1978; 299:620-4. [PMID: 683235 DOI: 10.1056/nejm197809212991202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A case-control study, undertaken to identify reasons for the exceptionally high rate of lung cancer among male residents of coastal Georgia, revealed a significantly increased risk associated with employment in area shipyards during World War II. The summary relative-risk estimate, adjusted for smoking, other occupations, age, race and county of residence was 1.6 (95 per cent confidence limits = 1.1 to 2.3). A synergistic relation was found between shipyard employment and cigarette smoking. These findings suggest that asbestos and possible other shipyard exposures during wartime employment account for part of the excess mortality from lung cancer in certain coastal areas of the United States.
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Murphy RL, Gaensler EA, Ferris BG, Fitzgerald M, Solliday N, Morrisey W. Diagnosis of "asbestosis". Observations from a longitudinal survey of shipyard pipe coverers. Am J Med 1978; 65:488-98. [PMID: 717415 DOI: 10.1016/0002-9343(78)90775-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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