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Wah W, Gelaw A, Glass DC, Sim MR, Hoy RF, Berecki-Gisolf J, Walker-Bone K. Systematic review of impacts of occupational exposure to wildfire smoke on respiratory function, symptoms, measures and diseases. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2024; 263:114463. [PMID: 39332351 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2024.114463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Revised: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wildfire smoke contains numerous hazardous air pollutants which pose serious health risks to humans. Despite this, there has been a limited focus on the assessment of the acute physiological and longer-term respiratory effects of wildfire exposure on firefighters and other emergency workers. Therefore, we undertook a systematic review of the evidence about the respiratory impacts of occupational wildfire smoke exposure among wildfire fighters (WFF). METHODS Eligible studies from Medline, Embase and Scopus databases were included if they described the relationship between wildfire exposure and respiratory function, symptoms, measures and diseases amongst emergency personnel or firefighters who had responded to wildfires. RESULTS Twenty-six articles met the inclusion criteria. 24 out of 26 (22 out of 23 moderate/high quality) studies provided evidence of adverse respiratory effects, including reduced lung function, increased airway dysfunction and airway inflammation, upper and lower respiratory tract symptoms and increased asthma incidence related to wildfires or prescribed burns exposure among WFF and police responders. Fourteen out of 19 studies showed statistically significant declines in spirometry measures of lung function (mostly short-term studies). Two studies using complex lung function tests showed a significant effect on peripheral airway function. DISCUSSION This review found a convincing body of evidence that occupational exposure to wildfires or prescribed burns has both acute and possibly longer-term respiratory effects among WFFs and some other emergency personnel. Given that these events are increasing, more needs to be done to identify those most at risk and mitigate these risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Win Wah
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Asmare Gelaw
- Healthy Working Lives Research Group, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah C Glass
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Malcolm R Sim
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ryan F Hoy
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Janneke Berecki-Gisolf
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Victorian Injury Surveillance Unit, Monash University Accident Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karen Walker-Bone
- Monash Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Laskaris Z, O'Neill MS, Batterman SA, Mukherjee B, Fobil JN, Robins TG. Cross-shift changes in pulmonary function and occupational exposure to particulate matter among e-waste workers in Ghana. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1368112. [PMID: 38784567 PMCID: PMC11111984 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1368112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Little is known on the association between cross-shift changes in pulmonary function and personal inhalation exposure to particulate matter (PM) among informal electronic-waste (e-waste) recovery workers who have substantial occupational exposure to airborne pollutants from burning e-waste. Methods Using a cross-shift design, pre- and post-shift pulmonary function assessments and accompanying personal inhalation exposure to PM (sizes <1, <2.5 μm, and the coarse fraction, 2.5-10 μm in aerodynamic diameter) were measured among e-waste workers (n = 142) at the Agbogbloshie e-waste site and a comparison population (n = 65) in Accra, Ghana during 2017 and 2018. Linear mixed models estimated associations between percent changes in pulmonary function and personal PM. Results Declines in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) per hour were not significantly associated with increases in PM (all sizes) among either study population, despite breathing zone concentrations of PM (all sizes) that exceeded health-based guidelines in both populations. E-waste workers who worked "yesterday" did, however, have larger cross-shift declines in FVC [-2.4% (95%CI: -4.04%, -0.81%)] in comparison to those who did not work "yesterday," suggesting a possible role of cumulative exposure. Discussion Overall, short-term respiratory-related health effects related to PM exposure among e-waste workers were not seen in this sample. Selection bias due to the "healthy worker" effect, short shift duration, and inability to capture a true "pre-shift" pulmonary function test among workers who live at the worksite may explain results and suggest the need to adapt cross-shift studies for informal settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoey Laskaris
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Marie S. O'Neill
- Department of Epidemiology, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Stuart A. Batterman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Bhramar Mukherjee
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Julius N. Fobil
- Department of Biological, Environmental, and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Ghana School of Public Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Thomas G. Robins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Park S, Kim HS, Oh HJ, Chung I, Ahn YS, Jeong KS. Assessment of phthalate exposure at a fire site in Korean firefighters. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:1800-1809. [PMID: 37584337 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2023.2246388] [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: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
To determine phthalate exposure in 32 firefighters, the concentrations of urinary phthalate metabolites, immediately (exposure day) and three weeks (control day) after fire suppression, were compared. Mono-(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate, mono-(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate, mono-(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate, mono-n-butyl phthalate (MBP), mono-n-benzyl phthalate (MBzP), and total phthalates (∑phthalates) levels, and creatinine-adjusted levels of MBP, MBzP, and ∑phthalates were significantly higher on exposure day than on control day. Phthalate concentration was significantly higher in firefighters who performed the fire extinguishing tasks (geometric mean [GM], 149.9 μg/L) than in those who performed other tasks (GM 70.8 μg/L) (p = .012). The GM concentration of firefighters who were active ≤ 50 m from the fire was 119.0 μg/L, and 37.6 μg/L for those who were > 50 m away (p = .012). The GM concentration was significantly different (p = .039) in firefighters with subjective symptoms after fire suppression (151.9 μg/L) compared to those without symptoms (81.6 μg/L). This study showed that firefighters were exposed to phthalate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soyoung Park
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Total Healthcare Centre, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Soo Kim
- Industrial Health and Work Environment Research Institute, Korean Industrial Health Association, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Jeong Oh
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Insung Chung
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Soon Ahn
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Wonju College of medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung Sook Jeong
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Wonju, Republic of Korea
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Barbosa JV, Alvim-Ferraz MCM, Martins FG, Sousa SIV. Occupational exposure of firefighters to hazardous pollutants during prescribed fires in Portugal. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 352:141355. [PMID: 38331261 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141355] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Firefighters perform high-risk activities and during the course of their functions are highly exposed to a wide range of occupational hazards, including air pollution. Thus, this study aimed to assess the exposure of firefighters in prescribed wildland fires and their occupational exposure, as well as to identify and chemically characterise the particles collected during wildland firefighting and inside fire stations. Exposure to wildfire smoke was evaluated in 7 prescribed fires in Portugal, 2 in the north and 5 in the south of Viseu district. The concentrations of PM2.5, NO2, SO2, CO and VOCs were monitored and exceedances to occupational exposure limit values were identified. Moreover, the chemical composition of PM2.5 was analysed. The results showed that firefighters were exposed to high concentrations of these pollutants during prescribed fires and that, in some cases, exceeded occupational exposure limits, both for time-weighted average concentrations for an 8-h working day (a time-weighted average, TWA) of PM2.5, and for short-term exposure values (STEL) of NO2 and SO2. Despite being exposed to very high concentrations of CO, no exceedances to the occupational exposure values were observed. FT-IR and SEM-EDS allowed to chemically characterise the composition of the particles collected inside the fire stations and also during wildland fires, identifying mainly quartz, aluminium and magnesium silicates, characteristic of earth's crust constituents. and also, fibres that have undergone combustion. Concluding, firefighters' exposure to high concentrations of harmful pollutants, can lead to the degradation of their respiratory health. It is therefore extremely important to increase existing knowledge and conduct further studies, especially longitudinal ones, that can assess their lung function. This will allow an understanding of the impacts of smoke on firefighters' health and develop effective strategies to protect them during wildland firefighting operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana V Barbosa
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria C M Alvim-Ferraz
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando G Martins
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia I V Sousa
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.
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Raab H, Moyer J, Afrin S, Garcia-Menendez F, Ward-Caviness CK. Prescribed fires, smoke exposure, and hospital utilization among heart failure patients. Environ Health 2023; 22:86. [PMID: 38087300 PMCID: PMC10717133 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-023-01032-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prescribed fires often have ecological benefits, but their environmental health risks have been infrequently studied. We investigated associations between residing near a prescribed fire, wildfire smoke exposure, and heart failure (HF) patients' hospital utilization. METHODS We used electronic health records from January 2014 to December 2016 in a North Carolina hospital-based cohort to determine HF diagnoses, primary residence, and hospital utilization. Using a cross-sectional study design, we associated the prescribed fire occurrences within 1, 2, and 5 km of the patients' primary residence with the number of hospital visits and 7- and 30-day readmissions. To compare prescribed fire associations with those observed for wildfire smoke, we also associated zip code-level smoke density data designed to capture wildfire smoke emissions with hospital utilization amongst HF patients. Quasi-Poisson regression models were used for the number of hospital visits, while zero-inflated Poisson regression models were used for readmissions. All models were adjusted for age, sex, race, and neighborhood socioeconomic status and included an offset for follow-up time. The results are the percent change and the 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS Associations between prescribed fire occurrences and hospital visits were generally null, with the few associations observed being with prescribed fires within 5 and 2 km of the primary residence in the negative direction but not the more restrictive 1 km radius. However, exposure to medium or heavy smoke (primarily from wildfires) at the zip code level was associated with both 7-day (8.5% increase; 95% CI = 1.5%, 16.0%) and 30-day readmissions (5.4%; 95% CI = 2.3%, 8.5%), and to a lesser degree, hospital visits (1.5%; 95% CI: 0.0%, 3.0%) matching previous studies. CONCLUSIONS Area-level smoke exposure driven by wildfires is positively associated with hospital utilization but not proximity to prescribed fires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Raab
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Human Studies Building, 104 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Joshua Moyer
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Human Studies Building, 104 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Sadia Afrin
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
- Present address: MIT Laboratory for Aviation and the Environment, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Fernando Garcia-Menendez
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Cavin K Ward-Caviness
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Human Studies Building, 104 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA.
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Goldfarb DG, Prezant DJ, Zeig-Owens R, Schwartz T, Liu Y, Kavouras IG. Development of a job-exposure matrix (JEM) for exposure to smoke particle mass among firefighters of the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY). Occup Environ Med 2023; 80:104-110. [PMID: 36635097 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2022-108549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A refined job exposure matrix (JEM) based on incident types and severities and response characteristics was developed for firefighters to estimate quantities of smoke particles emitted during structural and non-structural fire incidents from 2010 to 2021. METHODS The cohort included a subset of 3237 Fire Department of the City of New York firefighters who responded to at least one incident between 2010 and 2021, prior to retirement. Fire incident data included dates, type, severity (alarm level) and location. Response data included dates worked, firehouse, position titles and shift lengths for each firefighter. The quantity of smoke particle mass generated during structural and non-structural fires adjusted by individual firefighter engagement was computed using the United States Environmental Protection Agency AP-42 emissions framework. Correlations between years of employment, fire responses and career total particle mass concentration by firefighter were examined. Linear regression models were fit and corresponding R2 values were calculated. RESULTS Firefighters responded to a median of 424.7 (IQR=202.3-620.0) annual incidents/person; 17.6% were fire incidents (median=77.1; IQR=40.4-114.0). Structural fires were the most common type of fire incident (72.5% of annual incidents/person; median=55.9; IQR=29.6-85.5). Incident severity (alarm level) and firefighter engagement (position title) appeared to differentiate between high and low exposure regimes (R2=0.43). Incident severity explained most of the variability of particle exposures (R2=0.90). CONCLUSIONS Using the JEM, job-related smoke particle concentrations were estimated to vary by incident type, incident severity and firefighter engagement, highlighting the importance of using refined measures, so that future studies can more accurately evaluate associations between firefighting and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G Goldfarb
- Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA .,Bureau of Health Services, Fire Department of the City of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - David J Prezant
- Bureau of Health Services, Fire Department of the City of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Rachel Zeig-Owens
- Bureau of Health Services, Fire Department of the City of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Theresa Schwartz
- Bureau of Health Services, Fire Department of the City of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA.,Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Bureau of Health Services, Fire Department of the City of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Ilias G Kavouras
- Department of Environmental, Occupational, and Geospatial Health Sciences, CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, USA
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Barbosa JV, Farraia M, Branco PTBS, Alvim-Ferraz MCM, Martins FG, Annesi-Maesano I, Sousa SIV. The Effect of Fire Smoke Exposure on Firefighters' Lung Function: A Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16799. [PMID: 36554677 PMCID: PMC9779288 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are exposed to a range of harmful substances during firefighting. Exposure to fire smoke has been associated with a decrease in their lung function. However, the cause-effect relationship between those two factors is not yet demonstrated. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the potential associations between firefighters' occupational exposure and their lung function deterioration. Studies were identified from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Science Direct databases (August 1990-March 2021). The studies were included when reporting the lung function values of Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 s (FEV1) or Forced Vital Capacity (FVC). The meta-analyses were performed using the generic inverse variance in R software with a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis was used to determine if the lung function was influenced by a potential study effect or by the participants' characteristics. A total of 5562 participants from 24 studies were included. No significant difference was found between firefighters' predicted FEV1 from wildland, 97.64% (95% CI: 91.45-103.82%; I2 = 99%), and urban fires, 99.71% (95% CI: 96.75-102.67%; I2 = 98%). Similar results were found for the predicted FVC. Nevertheless, the mean values of firefighters' predicted lung function varied significantly among studies, suggesting many confounders, such as trials' design, statistical methods, methodologies applied, firefighters' daily exposure and career length, hindering an appropriate comparison between the studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana V. Barbosa
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Farraia
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro T. B. S. Branco
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Conceição M. Alvim-Ferraz
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando G. Martins
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Isabella Annesi-Maesano
- Desbrest Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health (IDESP), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Montpellier University, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | - Sofia I. V. Sousa
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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Wang B, Yu L, Liu W, Yang M, Fan L, Zhou M, Ma J, Wang X, Nie X, Cheng M, Qiu W, Ye Z, Song J, Chen W. Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of acrolein exposure with pulmonary function alteration: Assessing the potential roles of oxidative DNA damage, inflammation, and pulmonary epithelium injury in a general adult population. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 167:107401. [PMID: 35850081 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acrolein is a significant high priority hazardous air pollutant with pulmonary toxicity and the leading cause of most noncancer adverse respiratory effects among air toxics that draws great attention. Whether and how acrolein exposure impacts pulmonary function remain inconclusive. OBJECTIVES To assess the association of acrolein exposure with pulmonary function and the underlying roles of oxidative DNA damage, inflammation, and pulmonary epithelium integrity. METHODS Among 3,279 Chinese adults from the Wuhan-Zhuhai cohort, associations of urinary acrolein metabolites (N-Acetyl-S-(2-carboxyethyl)-L-cysteine, CEMA; N-Acetyl-S-(3-hydroxypropyl)-L-cysteine, 3HPMA) as credible biomarkers of acrolein exposure with pulmonary function were analyzed by linear mixed models. Joint effects of biomarkers of oxidative DNA damage (8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine), inflammation (C-reactive protein, CRP), and pulmonary epithelium integrity (Club cell secretory protein, CC16) with acrolein metabolites on pulmonary function and the mediating roles of these biomarkers were assessed. Besides, a subgroup (N = 138) was randomly recruited from the cohort to assess the stabilities of acrolein metabolites and their longitudinal associations with pulmonary function change in three years. RESULTS Significant inverse dose-response relationships between acrolein metabolites and pulmonary function were found. Each 10-fold increment in CEMA, 3HPMA, or ΣUACLM (CEMA + 3HPMA) was cross-sectionally related to a 68.56-, 40.98-, or 46.02-ml reduction in FVC and a 61.54-, 43.10-, or 50.14-ml reduction in FEV1, respectively (P < 0.05). Furthermore, acrolein metabolites with fair to excellent stabilities were found to be longitudinally associated with pulmonary function decline in three years. Joint effects of acrolein metabolites with 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine, CRP, and CC16 on pulmonary function were identified. CRP significantly mediated 5.97% and 5.51% of CEMA-associated FVC and FEV1 reductions, respectively. 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine significantly mediated 6.78%, 6.88%, and 7.61% of CEMA-, 3HPMA-, and ΣUACLM-associated FVC reductions, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Acrolein exposure of general adults was cross-sectionally and longitudinally related to pulmonary function decline, which was aggravated and/or partly mediated by oxidative DNA damage, inflammation, and pulmonary epithelium injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Linling Yu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Meng Yang
- Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430019, China
| | - Lieyang Fan
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Jixuan Ma
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Xing Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Xiuque Nie
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Man Cheng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Weihong Qiu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Zi Ye
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Jiahao Song
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Weihong Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.
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Viegas C, Pena P, Dias M, Gomes B, Cervantes R, Carolino E, Twarużek M, Soszczyńska E, Kosicki R, Caetano LA, Viegas S. Microbial contamination in waste collection: Unveiling this Portuguese occupational exposure scenario. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 314:115086. [PMID: 35483278 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2022.108862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies anticipated that microorganisms and their metabolites in waste will increase as a consequence of a decreased collection frequency and due to differences in what kind of waste is bagged before collection leading to an increased exposure of workers handling the waste. This study aim was to investigate the microbial contamination present in the waste collection trucks (WCT) and in the support facilities (waste collection station - WCS). It was applied a multi-approach protocol using active (air sampling by impingement and impaction) and passive (surface swabs, electrostatic dust cloths and settled dust) sampling methods. The screening of azole-resistance, the investigation of mycotoxins and the assessment of the elicited biological responses in vitro were also carried out aiming recognizing the possible health effects of waste collection drivers. SARS-CoV-2 detection was also performed. In WCS only air samples had contamination in all the four sampling sites (canteen, operational removal core, operational removal center, and administrative service). Among all the analyzed matrices from the WCT a higher percentage of total bacterial counts and Gram-was detected in swabs (66.93%; 99.36%). In WCS the most common species were Penicillium sp. (43.98%) and Cladosporium sp. (24.68%), while on WCT Aspergillus sp. (4.18%) was also one of the most found. In the azole resistance screening Aspergillus genera was not observed in the azole-supplemented media. SARS-CoV-2 was not detected in any of the environmental samples collected, but Aspergillus section Fumigati was detected in 5 samples. Mycotoxins were not detected in EDC from WCS, while in WCT they were detected in filters (N = 1) and in settled dust samples (N = 16). In conclusion, our study reveals that a comprehensive sampling approach using active and passive sampling (e.g. settled dust sampling for a representative mycotoxin evaluation) and combined analytic methods (i.e., culture-based and molecular) is an important asset in microbial exposure assessments. Concerning the waste collection exposure scenario, the results of this study unveiled a complex exposure, particularly to fungi and their metabolites. Aspergillus section Fumigati highlight the significance of targeting this section in the waste management industry as an indicator of occupational health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal.
| | - Pedro Pena
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
| | - Bianca Gomes
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Renata Cervantes
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Magdalena Twarużek
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Ewelina Soszczyńska
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
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10
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Zuidema C, Austin E, Cohen MA, Kasner E, Liu L, Busch Isaksen T, Lin KY, Spector J, Seto E. Potential impacts of Washington State's wildfire worker protection rule on construction workers. Ann Work Expo Health 2022; 66:419-432. [PMID: 34935028 PMCID: PMC9030230 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxab115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Driven by climate change, wildfires are increasing in frequency, duration, and intensity across the Western United States. Outdoor workers are being exposed to increasing wildfire-related particulate matter and smoke. Recognizing this emerging risk, Washington adopted an emergency rule and is presently engaged in creating a permanent rule to protect outdoor workers from wildfire smoke exposure. While there are growing bodies of literature on the exposure to and health effects of wildfire smoke in the general public and wildland firefighters, there is a gap in knowledge about wildfire smoke exposure among outdoor workers generally and construction workers specifically-a large category of outdoor workers in Washington totaling 200,000 people. Several data sources were linked in this study-including state-collected employment data and national ambient air quality data-to gain insight into the risk of PM2.5 exposure among construction workers and evaluate the impacts of different air quality thresholds that would have triggered a new Washington emergency wildfire smoke rule aimed at protecting workers from high PM2.5 exposure. Results indicate the number of poor air quality days has increased in August and September in recent years. Over the last decade, these months with the greatest potential for particulate matter exposure coincided with an annual peak in construction employment that was typically 9.4-42.7% larger across Washington counties (one county was 75.8%). Lastly, the 'encouraged' threshold of the Washington emergency rule (20.5 μg m-3) would have resulted in 5.5 times more days subject to the wildfire rule on average across all Washington counties compared to its 'required' threshold (55.5 μg m-3), and in 2020, the rule could have created demand for 1.35 million N-95 filtering facepiece respirators among construction workers. These results have important implications for both employers and policy makers as rules are developed. The potential policy implications of wildfire smoke exposure, exposure control strategies, and data gaps that would improve understanding of construction worker exposure to wildfire smoke are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Zuidema
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Elena Austin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Martin A Cohen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Edward Kasner
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lilian Liu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Tania Busch Isaksen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ken-Yu Lin
- Department of Construction Management, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - June Spector
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Edmund Seto
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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11
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Sol JA, Quindry JC. Application of a Novel Collection of Exhaled Breath Condensate to Exercise Settings. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19073948. [PMID: 35409631 PMCID: PMC8997655 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The collection of exhaled breath condensate (EBC) is a non-invasive method for obtaining biosamples from the lower respiratory tract, an approach amenable to exercise, environmental, and work physiology applications. The purpose of this study was to develop a cost-effective, reproducible methodology for obtaining larger volume EBC samples. Participants (male: n = 10; female: n = 6; 26 ± 8 yrs.) completed a 10 min EBC collection using a novel device (N-EBC). After initial collection, a 45 min bout of cycling at 75% HRmax was performed, followed by another N-EBC collection. In a subset of individuals (n = 5), EBC was obtained using both the novel technique and a commercially available EBC collection device (R-EBC) in a randomized fashion. N-EBC volume—pre- and post-exercise (2.3 ± 0.8 and 2.6 ± 0.9 mL, respectively)—and pH (7.4 ± 0.5 and 7.4 ± 0.5, respectively) were not significantly different. When normalized for participant body height, device comparisons indicated N-EBC volumes were larger than R-EBC at pre-exercise (+12%) and post-exercise (+48%). Following moderate-intensity exercise, no changes in the pre- and post-trial values of Pentraxin 3 (0.25 ± 0.04 and 0.26 ± 0.06 pg/mL, respectively) and 8-Isoprostrane (0.43 ± 0.33 and 0.36 ± 0.24 pg/mL, respectively) concentrations were observed. In a cost-efficient fashion, the N-EBC method produced larger sample volumes, both pre- and post-exercise, facilitating more biomarker tests to be performed.
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12
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Koopmans E, Cornish K, Fyfe TM, Bailey K, Pelletier CA. Health risks and mitigation strategies from occupational exposure to wildland fire: a scoping review. J Occup Med Toxicol 2022; 17:2. [PMID: 34983565 PMCID: PMC8725416 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-021-00328-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Due to accelerating wildland fire activity, there is mounting urgency to understand, prevent, and mitigate the occupational health impacts associated with wildland fire suppression. The objectives of this review of academic and grey literature were to: 1. Identify the impact of occupational exposure to wildland fires on physical, mental, and emotional health; and 2. Examine the characteristics and effectiveness of prevention, mitigation, or management strategies studied to reduce negative health outcomes associated with occupational exposure to wildland fire. METHODS Following established scoping review methods, academic literature as well as government and industry reports were identified by searching seven academic databases and through a targeted grey literature search. 4679 articles were screened using pre-determined eligibility criteria. Data on study characteristics, health outcomes assessed, prevention or mitigation strategies studied, and main findings were extracted from each included document. The results of this scoping review are presented using descriptive tables and a narrative summary to organize key findings. RESULTS The final sample was comprised of 100 articles: 76 research articles and 24 grey literature reports. Grey literature focused on acute injuries and fatalities. Health outcomes reported in academic studies focused on respiratory health (n = 14), mental health (n = 16), and inflammation and oxidative stress (n = 12). The identified studies evaluated short-term outcomes measuring changes across a single shift or wildland fire season. Most research was conducted with wildland firefighters and excluded personnel such as aviation crews, contract crews, and incident management teams. Five articles reported direct study of mitigation strategies, focusing on the potential usage of masks, advanced hygiene protocols to reduce exposure, fluid intake to manage hydration and core temperature, and glutamine supplementation to reduce fatigue. CONCLUSIONS While broad in scope, the evidence base linking wildland fire exposure to any one health outcome is limited. The lack of long-term evidence on changes in health status or morbidity is a clear evidence gap and there is a need to prioritize research on the mental and physical health impact of occupational exposure to wildland fire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Koopmans
- Health Research Institute, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Katie Cornish
- Health Research Institute, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Trina M Fyfe
- Northern Medical Program, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Katherine Bailey
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Chelsea A Pelletier
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada.
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13
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da Silveira Fleck A, Sadoine ML, Buteau S, Suarthana E, Debia M, Smargiassi A. Environmental and Occupational Short-Term Exposure to Airborne Particles and FEV 1 and FVC in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182010571. [PMID: 34682321 PMCID: PMC8536058 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182010571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background: No study has compared the respiratory effects of environmental and occupational particulate exposure in healthy adults. Methods: We estimated, by a systematic review and meta-analysis, the associations between short term exposures to fine particles (PM2.5 and PM4) and certain parameters of lung function (FEV1 and FVC) in healthy adults. Results: In total, 33 and 14 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis and meta-analyses, respectively. In environmental studies, a 10 µg/m3 increase in PM2.5 was associated with an FEV1 reduction of 7.63 mL (95% CI: −10.62 to −4.63 mL). In occupational studies, an increase of 10 µg/m3 in PM4 was associated with an FEV1 reduction of 0.87 mL (95% CI: −1.36 to −0.37 mL). Similar results were observed with FVC. Conclusions: Both occupational and environmental short-term exposures to fine particles are associated with reductions in FEV1 and FVC in healthy adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan da Silveira Fleck
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, 2375 Chem. de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1A8, Canada; (A.d.S.F.); (M.L.S.); (M.D.)
- Centre for Public Health Research (CReSP), 7101 Av du Parc, Montreal, QC H3N 1X9, Canada
| | - Margaux L. Sadoine
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, 2375 Chem. de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1A8, Canada; (A.d.S.F.); (M.L.S.); (M.D.)
- Centre for Public Health Research (CReSP), 7101 Av du Parc, Montreal, QC H3N 1X9, Canada
| | - Stéphane Buteau
- Institut National de Sante Publique du Québec (INSPQ), 190 Boul Crémazie E, Montreal, QC H2P 1E2, Canada;
| | - Eva Suarthana
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, 2155 Rue Guy, Montreal, QC H3H 2L9, Canada;
- Centre de Recherche de l’Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal (CRHSCM), 5400 Boul Gouin O, Montreal, QC H4J 1C5, Canada
| | - Maximilien Debia
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, 2375 Chem. de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1A8, Canada; (A.d.S.F.); (M.L.S.); (M.D.)
- Centre for Public Health Research (CReSP), 7101 Av du Parc, Montreal, QC H3N 1X9, Canada
| | - Audrey Smargiassi
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, 2375 Chem. de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC H3T 1A8, Canada; (A.d.S.F.); (M.L.S.); (M.D.)
- Centre for Public Health Research (CReSP), 7101 Av du Parc, Montreal, QC H3N 1X9, Canada
- Institut National de Sante Publique du Québec (INSPQ), 190 Boul Crémazie E, Montreal, QC H2P 1E2, Canada;
- Correspondence:
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14
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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Adults Exposed to Fine Particles from a Coal Mine Fire. Ann Am Thorac Soc 2021; 19:186-195. [PMID: 34491155 DOI: 10.1513/annalsats.202012-1544oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE In 2014 the Hazelwood open cut coal mine in south eastern Australia burned for six weeks, exposing nearby residents to high concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The long-term health consequences are unknown, and are being evaluated as part of the Hazelwood Health Study. OBJECTIVES To explore the association between PM2.5 exposure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHODS A sample of 346 exposed, and 173 unexposed, adults participated in the longitudinal Respiratory Stream of the Hazelwood Health Study. Participants underwent spirometry and gas transfer measurements, and answered validated respiratory questionnaires 3.5-4 years after the fire. Individual-level mine fire-related PM2.5 exposure was modelled. Multivariate linear regression and logistic models were fitted to analyse associations between mean and peak PM2.5 exposure and clinical outcomes, stratified by smoking status. RESULTS A 10 μg/m3 increase in mean PM2.5 exposure was associated with a 69% (95%CI: 11% to 158%) increase in odds of spirometry consistent with COPD amongst non-smokers and increased odds of chest tightness (odds ratio; OR 1.30, 95%CI 1.03 to 1.64) and chronic cough (OR 1.24, 95%CI 1.02 to 1.51) in the previous 12 months in all participants. For current smokers, increments in mean PM2.5 exposure were associated with higher odds of chronic cough in the preceding 12 months (OR 2.13, 95%CI 1.24 to 3.65). CONCLUSIONS Almost four years after a six-week period of coal fire PM2.5 exposure, we identified a dose-response association between exposure and COPD in non-smokers. With climate change a likely contributor to increased risk of landscape fires, the findings will inform policy decisions during future sustained smoke events.
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2019–20 Australian Bushfires and Anomalies in Carbon Monoxide Surface and Column Measurements. ATMOSPHERE 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos12060755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In Australia, bushfires are a natural part of the country’s landscape and essential for the regeneration of plant species; however, the 2019–20 bushfires were unprecedented in their extent and intensity. This paper is focused on the 2019–20 Australian bushfires and the resulting surface and column atmospheric carbon monoxide (CO) anomalies around Wollongong. Column CO data from the ground-based Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON) and Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC) site in Wollongong are used together with surface in situ measurements. A systematic comparison was performed between the surface in situ and column measurements of CO to better understand whether column measurements can be used as an estimate of the surface concentrations. If so, satellite column measurements of CO could be used to estimate the exposure of humans to CO and other fire-related pollutants. We find that the enhancements in the column measurements are not always significantly evident in the corresponding surface measurements. Topographical features play a key role in determining the surface exposures from column abundance especially in a coastal city like Wollongong. The topography at Wollongong, combined with meteorological effects, potentially exacerbates differences in the column and surface. Hence, satellite column amounts are unlikely to provide an accurate reflection of exposure at the ground during major events like the 2019–2020 bushfires.
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Wu CM, Song CC, Chartier R, Kremer J, Naeher L, Adetona O. Characterization of occupational smoke exposure among wildland firefighters in the midwestern United States. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 193:110541. [PMID: 33249041 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Wildland firefighters are repeatedly exposed to elevated levels of wildland fire smoke (WFS) while protecting lives and properties from wildland fires. Studies reporting personal exposure concentrations of air pollutants in WFS during fire suppression or prescribed burn activities have been geographically limited to the western and southeastern United States. The objective of this study is to characterize exposure concentrations of air pollutants in WFS emissions among wildland firefighters who conducted prescribed burns in the Midwest. Between 2016 and 2019, a total of 35 firefighters (31 males and 4 females, age of 35.63 ± 9.31 years) were recruited to participate in this study. Personal particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) and carbon monoxide (CO) exposure concentrations were measured during prescribed burns. The level of black carbon (BC) in WFS particulates was determined using the light transmission technique, while trace metal composition was analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results showed geometric means for PM2.5, CO, and BC concentrations were 1.43 ± 0.13 mg/m3, 7.02 ± 0.69 ppm, and 58.79 ± 5.46 μg/m3, respectively. Although no occupational exposure limits (OELs) were exceeded by 8-h time-weighted average (TWA) exposure concentration observed in the firefighters, a total of 28 personal CO exposure concentrations were above the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) Ceiling (200 ppm) for CO. PM2.5 and CO concentrations were about 2-7 times higher in the Midwest than the other regions. Firefighters who performed holding had higher CO exposure concentrations compared to firefighters who performed lighting (p < 0.01), while lighters were exposed to higher level of BC in the smoke particulates (p < 0.01), possibly due to the domination of exposure by different combustion sources and stages. The levels of trace metals in WFS particulates were well below the corresponding OELs and no task-related difference was observed except for manganese. Our results suggest that wildland firefighters in the midwestern region have higher WFS exposures while working at prescribed burns compared to those western and southeastern United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieh-Ming Wu
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Chi Chuck Song
- Division of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ryan Chartier
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Jacob Kremer
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Luke Naeher
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Olorunfemi Adetona
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.
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Keshava C, Davis JA, Stanek J, Thayer KA, Galizia A, Keshava N, Gift J, Vulimiri SV, Woodall G, Gigot C, Garcia K, Greenhalgh A, Schulz B, Volkoff S, Camargo K, Persad AS. Application of systematic evidence mapping to assess the impact of new research when updating health reference values: A case example using acrolein. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 143:105956. [PMID: 32702594 PMCID: PMC7917575 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The environmental health community needs transparent, methodologically rigorous, and rapid approaches for updating human health risk assessments. These assessments often contain reference values for cancer and/or noncancer effects. Increasingly, the use of systematic review methods are preferred when developing these assessments. Systematic evidence maps are a type of analysis that has the potential to be very helpful in the update process, especially when combined with machine-learning software advances designed to expedite the process of conducting a review. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the applicability of evidence mapping to determine whether new evidence is likely to result in a change to an existing health reference value, using inhalation exposure to the air pollutant acrolein as a case example. METHODS New literature published since the 2008 California Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) Reference Exposure Level (REL) for acrolein was assessed. Systematic review methods were used to search the literature and screening included the use of machine-learning software. The Populations, Exposures, Comparators and Outcomes (PECO) criteria were kept broad to identify studies that characterized acute and chronic exposure and could be informative for hazard characterization. Studies that met the PECO criteria after full-text review were briefly summarized before their suitability for chronic point of departure (POD) derivation and calculation of a reference value was considered. Studies considered potentially suitable underwent a targeted evaluation to determine their suitability for use in dose-response analysis. RESULTS Over 15,000 studies were identified from scientific databases. Both machine-learning and manual screening processes were used to identify 60 studies considered PECO-relevant after full-text review. Most of these PECO-relevant studies were short-term exposure animal studies (acute or less than 1 month of exposure) and considered less suitable for deriving a chronic reference value when compared to the subchronic study in rats used in the 2008 OEHHA assessment. Thirteen epidemiological studies were identified but had limitations in the exposure assessment that made them less suitable for dose-response compared to the subchronic rat study. Among the 13 studies, there were four controlled trial studies that have the potential to be informative for future acute reference value derivation. Thus, the 2008 subchronic rat study used by OEHHA appears to still be the most appropriate study for chronic reference value derivation. In addition, advances in dosimetric modeling for gases, including new evidence pertinent to acrolein, could be considered when updating existing acrolein toxicity values. CONCLUSIONS Evidence mapping is a very useful tool to assess the need for updating an assessment based on understanding the potential impact of new studies on revising an existing health reference value. In this case example, the focus was to identify studies suitable for chronic exposure dose-response analysis, while also identifying studies that may be important to consider for acute exposure scenarios, hazard identification, or for future research. This allows the evidence map to be a useful resource for a range of decision-making contexts. Specialized systematic review software increased the efficiency of the process in terms of human resources and time to conduct the analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Channa Keshava
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | - J Allen Davis
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | - John Stanek
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | - Kristina A Thayer
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | - Audrey Galizia
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | | | - Jeff Gift
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | | | - George Woodall
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | - Carolyn Gigot
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | - Kelly Garcia
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | - Andrew Greenhalgh
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | - Brittany Schulz
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
| | | | - Krisa Camargo
- Veterinary Integrative Biosciences and Geochemical Environmental Research Group, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
| | - Amanda S Persad
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, US EPA, NC, USA.
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Assessing Forest Canopy Impacts on Smoke Concentrations Using a Coupled Numerical Model. ATMOSPHERE 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos10050273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The impact of a forest canopy on smoke concentration is assessed by applying a numerical weather prediction model coupled with a Lagrangian particle dispersion model to two low-intensity wildland (prescribed) fires in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. A comparison with observations indicates that the coupled numerical model can reproduce some of the observed variations in surface smoke concentrations and plume heights. Model sensitivity analyses highlight the effect of the forest canopy on simulated meteorological conditions, smoke concentrations, and plume heights. The forest canopy decreases near-surface wind speed, increases buoyancy, and increases turbulent mixing. Sensitivities to the time of day, plant area density profiles, and fire heat fluxes are documented. Analyses of temporal variations in smoke concentrations indicate that the effect of the transition from a daytime to a nocturnal planetary boundary layer is weaker when sensible heat fluxes from the fires are stronger. The results illustrate the challenges in simulating meteorological conditions and smoke concentrations at scales where interactions between the fire, fuels, and atmosphere are critically important. The study demonstrates the potential for predictive tools to be developed and implemented that could help fire and air-quality managers assess local air-quality impacts during low-intensity wildland fires in forested environments.
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Xu X, Shang Y, Tian L, Weng W, Tu J. Fate of the inhaled smoke particles from fire scenes in the nasal airway of a realistic firefighter: A simulation study. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2019; 16:273-285. [PMID: 30668285 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2019.1572900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the inhalation, transport and deposition of smoke particles during fire missions are important to evaluating the health risks for firefighters. In this study, measurements from Underwriters Laboratories' large-scale fire experiments on smoke particle size distribution and concentration in three residential fire scenes were incorporated into models to investigate the fate of inhaled toxic ultrafine particulates in a realistic firefighter nasal cavity model. Deposition equations were developed, and the actual particle dosimetry (in mass, number and surface area) was evaluated. A strong monotonic growth of nasal airway dosages of simulated smoke particles was identified for airflow rates and fire duration across all simulated residential fire scene conditions. Even though the "number" dosage of arsenic in the limited ventilation living room fire was similar to the "number" dosage of chromium in the living room, particle mass and surface area dosages simulated in the limited living room were 90-200 fold higher than that in the ventilated living room. These were also confirmed when comparing the dosimetry in the living room and the kitchen. This phenomenon implied that particles with larger size were the dominant factors in mass and surface area dosages. Firefighters should not remove the self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) during fire suppression and overhaul operations, especially in smoldering fires with limited ventilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Xu
- a Institute of Public Safety Research, Department of Engineering Physics, Tsinghua University , Beijing , China
- b School of Engineering - Mechanical and Automotive , RMIT University , Bundoora , Victoria , Australia
- c School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering , University of New South Wales , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Yidan Shang
- b School of Engineering - Mechanical and Automotive , RMIT University , Bundoora , Victoria , Australia
| | - Lin Tian
- b School of Engineering - Mechanical and Automotive , RMIT University , Bundoora , Victoria , Australia
| | - Wenguo Weng
- a Institute of Public Safety Research, Department of Engineering Physics, Tsinghua University , Beijing , China
| | - Jiyuan Tu
- b School of Engineering - Mechanical and Automotive , RMIT University , Bundoora , Victoria , Australia
- c School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering , University of New South Wales , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia
- d Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Advanced Reactor Engineering and Safety , Institute of Nuclear and New Energy Technology, Tsinghua University , Beijing , China
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Wu CM, Adetona A, Song C(C, Naeher L, Adetona O. Measuring acute pulmonary responses to occupational wildland fire smoke exposure using exhaled breath condensate. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2019; 75:65-69. [PMID: 30668286 PMCID: PMC6646110 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2018.1562413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Wildland firefighters are directly exposed to elevated levels of wildland fire (WF) smoke. Although studies demonstrate WF smoke exposure is associated with lung function changes, few studies that use invasive sample collection methods have been conducted to investigate underlying biochemical changes. These methods are also either unrepresentative of the deeper airways or capable of inducing inflammation. In the present study, levels of biomarkers of oxidative stress (8-isoprostane) and pro-inflammatory response (interleukin-6 [IL-6], interleukin-8 [IL-8], C-reactive protein [CRP], and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 [sICAM-1]) were determined in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) samples that were collected from firefighters before, after, and next morning following prescribed burn and regular work shifts. Results show only a marginal cross-shift increase in 8-isoprostane on burn days (.05 < p value < .1), suggesting WF smoke exposure causes mild pulmonary responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieh-Ming Wu
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | | | - Chi (Chuck) Song
- Division of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
| | - Luke Naeher
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | - Olorunfemi Adetona
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
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21
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Gianniou N, Giannakopoulou C, Dima E, Kardara M, Katsaounou P, Tsakatikas A, Roussos C, Koulouris N, Rovina N. Acute effects of smoke exposure on airway and systemic inflammation in forest firefighters. J Asthma Allergy 2018; 11:81-88. [PMID: 29719412 PMCID: PMC5922237 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s136417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The aim of this study was to assess respiratory health and airway and systemic inflammation in professional forest firefighters post firefighting. Methods A total of 60 firefighters who participated in forest firefighting operations in Greece during 2008 were included in the study. A questionnaire consisting of symptoms and exposure, pulmonary function, atopy, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and markers of inflammation in induced sputum, serum, and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid was assessed. Results A measurable eosinophilic and neutrophilic inflammation was shown to be induced in the bronchial airways after acute exposure during forest firefighting. This was associated with increased respiratory symptoms from the upper and lower respiratory tract and pulmonary function impairment. Additionally, a measurable systemic inflammatory response was demonstrated. This study showed that acute exposure during forest firefighting significantly augments the intensity of airway and systemic inflammation in relation to the baseline inflammatory background due to chronic exposure. Conclusion The repeated acute exposures during firefighting augment the burden of chronic airway and systemic inflammation and may eventually lead to allergic sensitization of the airways and increased incidence of rhinitis and asthma after prolonged exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niki Gianniou
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Department, Evangelismos Hospital
| | | | - Efrossini Dima
- 1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, "Sotiria" Hospital; Athens Medical School
| | - Matina Kardara
- "M. Simos" Laboratories, Department of Critical Care and Pulmonary Services, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens
| | | | | | - Charis Roussos
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Department, Evangelismos Hospital.,1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, "Sotiria" Hospital; Athens Medical School.,"M. Simos" Laboratories, Department of Critical Care and Pulmonary Services, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens
| | - Nikolaos Koulouris
- 1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, "Sotiria" Hospital; Athens Medical School
| | - Nikoletta Rovina
- 1 Department of Pulmonary Medicine, "Sotiria" Hospital; Athens Medical School
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22
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Black C, Tesfaigzi Y, Bassein JA, Miller LA. Wildfire smoke exposure and human health: Significant gaps in research for a growing public health issue. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2017; 55:186-195. [PMID: 28892756 PMCID: PMC5628149 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2017.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/26/2017] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the effect of wildfire smoke exposure on human health represents a unique interdisciplinary challenge to the scientific community. Population health studies indicate that wildfire smoke is a risk to human health and increases the healthcare burden of smoke-impacted areas. However, wildfire smoke composition is complex and dynamic, making characterization and modeling difficult. Furthermore, current efforts to study the effect of wildfire smoke are limited by availability of air quality measures and inconsistent air quality reporting among researchers. To help address these issues, we conducted a substantive review of wildfire smoke effects on population health, wildfire smoke exposure in occupational health, and experimental wood smoke exposure. Our goal was to evaluate the current literature on wildfire smoke and highlight important gaps in research. In particular we emphasize long-term health effects of wildfire smoke, recovery following wildfire smoke exposure, and health consequences of exposure in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Black
- California National Primate Research Center, United States
| | | | - Jed A Bassein
- California National Primate Research Center, United States
| | - Lisa A Miller
- California National Primate Research Center, United States; Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, United States.
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23
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Ferguson MD, Semmens EO, Weiler E, Domitrovich J, French M, Migliaccio C, Palmer C, Dumke C, Ward T. Lung function measures following simulated wildland firefighter exposures. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2017; 14:739-748. [PMID: 28609218 PMCID: PMC6101969 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2017.1326700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Across the world, biomass smoke is a major source of air pollution and is linked with a variety of adverse health effects. This is particularly true in the western U.S. where wood smoke from wildland forest fires are a significant source of PM2.5. Wildland firefighters are impacted as they experience elevated PM2.5 concentrations over extended periods of time, often occurring during physical exertion. Various epidemiological studies have investigated wood smoke impacts on human health, including occupational field exposures experienced by wildland firefighters. As there are numerous challenges in carrying out these field studies, having the ability to research the potential health impacts to this occupational cohort in a controlled setting would provide important information that could be translated to the field setting. To this end, we have carried out a simulated wildland firefighter exposure study in a wood smoke inhalation facility. Utilizing a randomized crossover trial design, we exposed 10 participants once to clean filtered-air, 250 µg/m3, and 500 µg/m3 wood stove-generated wood smoke PM2.5. Participants exercised on a treadmill at an absolute intensity designed to simulate wildland firefighting for 1.5 hr. In addition to measured PM2.5 smoke concentrations, mean levels of CO2, CO, and % relative humidity were continuously monitored and recorded and were representative of occupational "real-world" exposures. Pulmonary function was measured at three time points: before, immediately after, and 1-hr post-exposure. Although there were some reductions in FVC, FEV1, and FVC:FEV1 measures, results of the spirometry testing did not show significant changes in lung function. The development of this wood smoke inhalational facility provides a platform to further address unique research questions related to wood smoke exposures and associated adverse health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Ferguson
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Erin O. Semmens
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Emily Weiler
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | | | - Mary French
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | | | - Charles Palmer
- Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Charles Dumke
- Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
| | - Tony Ward
- Center for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, USA
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Abreu A, Costa C, Pinho E Silva S, Morais S, do Carmo Pereira M, Fernandes A, Moraes de Andrade V, Teixeira JP, Costa S. Wood smoke exposure of Portuguese wildland firefighters: DNA and oxidative damage evaluation. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2017; 80:596-604. [PMID: 28524757 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2017.1286896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Portugal is among the European Union countries most devastated by forest fires each year. In the last three decades, more than 3.8 million hectares of forest were burned. Wildland firefighters are exposed to a variety of hazards, including many toxic combustion products that may lead to deleterious health effects. Epidemiological studies showed a positive association between firefighting and several chronic diseases, including cancer. Results from biomonitoring studies in firefighters, particularly concerning genotoxicity evaluation, constitute a valuable tool for investigating important occupational hazards. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess genotoxicity in a group of wildland firefighters using the comet assay for DNA damage and oxidative stress. Both parameters were increased in firefighters compared to controls, but significance was only found for basal DNA damage. No significant influence was found regarding major confounding variables on the genotoxic endpoints studied, with the exception of age. Data obtained provide preliminary information on human health effects of wildland firefighting exposure at genetic and molecular levels. These findings may also provide new important data to serve as public awareness to the potential adverse health risks involving wildland firefighting. Implementation of security and hygiene measures in this sector as well as good practices campaigns may be crucial to decrease risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Abreu
- a EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
- b Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Environmental Health Department , Porto , Portugal
| | - Carla Costa
- a EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
- b Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Environmental Health Department , Porto , Portugal
| | - Susana Pinho E Silva
- b Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Environmental Health Department , Porto , Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- c REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Instituto Politécnico do Porto Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida , Porto , Portugal
| | - Maria do Carmo Pereira
- d LEPABE, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto Rua Dr. Roberto Frias , Porto , Portugal
| | - Adília Fernandes
- e Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Avenida D. Afonso V , Bragança , Portugal
| | - Vanessa Moraes de Andrade
- f Laboatory of Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Programme of Health Sciences, Health Sciences Unit, University of Southern Santa Catarina, UNESC , Santa Catarina , Brazil
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- a EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
- b Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Environmental Health Department , Porto , Portugal
| | - Solange Costa
- a EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
- b Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Environmental Health Department , Porto , Portugal
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25
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Hemmatjo R, Motamedzade M, Aliabadi M, Kalatpour O, Farhadian M. The effect of artificial smoke compound on physiological responses, cognitive functions and work performance during firefighting activities in a smoke-diving room: an intervention study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND ERGONOMICS 2017; 24:358-365. [PMID: 28278005 DOI: 10.1080/10803548.2017.1299995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the combined effect of firefighting operations and exposure to smoke on physiological responses, cognitive functions and physical performance among firefighters. Each firefighter was engaged in two experimental conditions: (a) without artificial smoke, control (NS); (b) with artificial smoke (WS). The results of data analysis revealed that heart rate and body temperature increased significantly after the firefighting activities in the two conditions relative to baseline. In addition, reaction time (RT) and correct response (CR) decreased after the activity relative to baseline and there was a significant difference in RT and CR between the NS and WS conditions. There was also a significant difference in performance time between the NS and WS conditions. These findings demonstrated that a smoke compound has an insignificant effect on physiological responses during firefighting activity. On the contrary, the smoke compound has a detrimental influence on cognitive and physical performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasoul Hemmatjo
- a Department of Occupational Health , Hamadan University of Medical Sciences , Iran
| | - Majid Motamedzade
- b Ergonomics Department , Hamadan University of Medical Sciences , Iran
| | - Mohsen Aliabadi
- c Department of Occupational Health , Hamadan University of Medical Science , Iran
| | - Omid Kalatpour
- c Department of Occupational Health , Hamadan University of Medical Science , Iran
| | - Maryam Farhadian
- d Department of Biostatistics , Hamadan University of Medical Science , Iran
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Measured Pulmonary and Systemic Markers of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Following Wildland Firefighter Simulations. J Occup Environ Med 2017; 58:407-13. [PMID: 27058482 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A controlled human exposure study was conducted to investigate the impact of inhalational exposures to wood smoke PM2.5 on measured concentrations of airway and systemic inflammatory biomarkers. METHODS Mimicking wildland firefighter activities, 10 participants were exposed to three doses of wood smoke PM2.5 (filtered-air, 250 μg/m, and 500 μg/m) while exercising on a treadmill. Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) and blood plasma samples were obtained pre-, immediately post-, and 1-hour postexposure. 8-isoprostane, pH, and myeloperoxidase were measured in EBC, while H2O2, surfactant protein D, and pentraxin-3 (PTX3) were measured in both EBC and plasma. RESULTS Only pH, 8-isoprostane, and PTX3 displayed significant changes when comparing pre- and postexposures. CONCLUSIONS Markers of inflammation and oxidative stress, including PTX3, pH, and 8-isoprostane in EBC and/or plasma, are sensitive to wood smoke inhalation, with further investigations warranted.
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Abstract
Changes in atmosphere and temperature are affecting multiple environmental indicators from extreme heat events to global air quality. Workers will be uniquely affected by climate change, and the occupational impacts of major shifts in atmospheric and weather conditions need greater attention. Climate change-related exposures most likely to differentially affect workers in the USA and globally include heat, ozone, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, other chemicals, pathogenic microorganisms, vector-borne diseases, violence, and wildfires. Epidemiologic evidence documents a U-, J-, or V-shaped relationship between temperature and mortality. Whereas heat-related morbidity and mortality risks are most evident in agriculture, many other outdoor occupational sectors are also at risk, including construction, transportation, landscaping, firefighting, and other emergency response operations. The toxicity of chemicals change under hyperthermic conditions, particularly for pesticides and ozone. Combined with climate-related changes in chemical transport and distribution, these interactions represent unique health risks specifically to workers. Links between heat and interpersonal conflict including violence require attention because they pose threats to the safety of emergency medicine, peacekeeping and humanitarian relief, and public safety professionals. Recommendations for anticipating how US workers will be most susceptible to climate change include formal monitoring systems for agricultural workers; modeling scenarios focusing on occupational impacts of extreme climate events including floods, wildfires, and chemical spills; and national research agenda setting focusing on control and mitigation of occupational susceptibility to climate change.
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28
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Adetona O, Reinhardt TE, Domitrovich J, Broyles G, Adetona AM, Kleinman MT, Ottmar RD, Naeher LP. Review of the health effects of wildland fire smoke on wildland firefighters and the public. Inhal Toxicol 2016; 28:95-139. [PMID: 26915822 DOI: 10.3109/08958378.2016.1145771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Each year, the general public and wildland firefighters in the US are exposed to smoke from wildland fires. As part of an effort to characterize health risks of breathing this smoke, a review of the literature was conducted using five major databases, including PubMed and MEDLINE Web of Knowledge, to identify smoke components that present the highest hazard potential, the mechanisms of toxicity, review epidemiological studies for health effects and identify the current gap in knowledge on the health impacts of wildland fire smoke exposure. Respiratory events measured in time series studies as incidences of disease-caused mortality, hospital admissions, emergency room visits and symptoms in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients are the health effects that are most commonly associated with community level exposure to wildland fire smoke. A few recent studies have also determined associations between acute wildland fire smoke exposure and cardiovascular health end-points. These cardiopulmonary effects were mostly observed in association with ambient air concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5). However, research on the health effects of this mixture is currently limited. The health effects of acute exposures beyond susceptible populations and the effects of chronic exposures experienced by the wildland firefighter are largely unknown. Longitudinal studies of wildland firefighters during and/or after the firefighting career could help elucidate some of the unknown health impacts of cumulative exposure to wildland fire smoke, establish occupational exposure limits and help determine the types of exposure controls that may be applicable to the occupation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olorunfemi Adetona
- a Department of Environmental Health Science , College of Public Health, University of Georgia , Athens , GA , USA .,b Division of Environmental Health Sciences , College of Public Health, the Ohio State University , Columbus , OH , USA
| | - Timothy E Reinhardt
- c AMEC Foster Wheeler Environment & Infrastructure, Inc , Seattle , WA , USA
| | - Joe Domitrovich
- d USDA Forest Service, Missoula Technology and Development Center , Missoula , MT , USA
| | - George Broyles
- e SDA Forest Service, San Dimas Technology and Development Center , San Dimas , CA , USA
| | - Anna M Adetona
- a Department of Environmental Health Science , College of Public Health, University of Georgia , Athens , GA , USA
| | - Michael T Kleinman
- f Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of California , Irvine , CA , USA , and
| | - Roger D Ottmar
- g USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station , Seattle , WA , USA
| | - Luke P Naeher
- a Department of Environmental Health Science , College of Public Health, University of Georgia , Athens , GA , USA
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29
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The concentration of carbon monoxide in the breathing areas of workers during logging operations at the motor-manual level. Int J Occup Med Environ Health 2014; 27:821-9. [PMID: 25216817 DOI: 10.2478/s13382-014-0300-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This article compares 2 variants of logging technologies at the motor-manual level: variant A - cutting and delimbing by means of a petrol chainsaw, skidding with the use of a cable winch mounted on a tractor (67-74 kW); variant B - cutting by means of a petrol chainsaw, skidding, debranching and cutting to length by means of a processor aggregated with a farm tractor (61 kW). MATERIAL AND METHODS Direct dosimetry and non-parametric (moving block bootstrap) methods were used in order to specify the characteristics of the collected sets. RESULTS Bootstrap average values show that the average CO concentration at a skidding tractor operator's station during early thinning was 2.54 mg×m(-3). At processor operator's station it amounted to 10.35 mg×m(-3). Such results allow to conclude that a higher CO concentration at the above-mentioned 2 work stations was observed during early thinning. In the case of a petrol chainsaw operator, it was observed that the permissible exposure limit (23 mg×m(-3)) was exceeded and the short-term permissible exposure limit (117 mg×m(-3)) was not. The average concentration value for a chainsaw operator working individually during late thinning interventions was substantially lower (15.01 mg×m(-3)), which results from the lack of technological pressure that can be observed while cooperating with a processor operator. CONCLUSIONS The risk increases along with conditions that generate the concentration of exhaust produced by 2-stroke petrol chainsaw engines.
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30
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Gaughan DM, Siegel PD, Hughes MD, Chang CY, Law BF, Campbell CR, Richards JC, Kales SF, Chertok M, Kobzik L, Nguyen PS, O'Donnell CR, Kiefer M, Wagner GR, Christiani DC. Arterial stiffness, oxidative stress, and smoke exposure in wildland firefighters. Am J Ind Med 2014; 57:748-56. [PMID: 24909863 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the association between exposure, oxidative stress, symptoms, and cardiorespiratory function in wildland firefighters. METHODS We studied two Interagency Hotshot Crews with questionnaires, pulse wave analysis for arterial stiffness, spirometry, urinary 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-isoprostane) and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and the smoke exposure marker (urinary levoglucosan). Arterial stiffness was assessed by examining levels of the aortic augmentation index, expressed as a percentage. An oxidative stress score comprising the average of z-scores created for 8-OHdG and 8-isoprostane was calculated. RESULTS Mean augmentation index % was higher for participants with higher oxidative stress scores after adjusting for smoking status. Specifically for every one unit increase in oxidative stress score the augmentation index % increased 10.5% (95% CI: 2.5, 18.5%). Higher mean lower respiratory symptom score was associated with lower percent predicted forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity. CONCLUSIONS Biomarkers of oxidative stress may serve as indicators of arterial stiffness in wildland firefighters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise M. Gaughan
- Department of Preventive Medicine and the Institute for Translational Epidemiology; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; New York New York
- Department of Environmental Health (Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program); Harvard School of Public Health; Boston Massachusetts
| | - Paul D. Siegel
- Health Effects Laboratory Division; National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; Morgantown West Virginia
| | - Michael D. Hughes
- Department of Biostatistics; Harvard School of Public Health; Boston Massachusetts
| | - Chiung-Yu Chang
- Department of Environmental Health (Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program); Harvard School of Public Health; Boston Massachusetts
| | - Brandon F. Law
- Health Effects Laboratory Division; National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; Morgantown West Virginia
| | - Corey R. Campbell
- Western States Office; National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; Denver Colorado
| | - Jennifer C. Richards
- Department of Health and Exercise Science; Colorado State University; Fort Collins Colorado
| | - Stefanos F. Kales
- Department of Environmental Health (Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program); Harvard School of Public Health; Boston Massachusetts
| | - Marcia Chertok
- Department of Environmental Health (Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program); Harvard School of Public Health; Boston Massachusetts
| | - Lester Kobzik
- Department of Environmental Health (Molecular and Integrative Physiological Sciences); Harvard School of Public Health; Boston Massachusetts
| | - Phuong-son Nguyen
- Department of Environmental Health (Molecular and Integrative Physiological Sciences); Harvard School of Public Health; Boston Massachusetts
| | - Carl R. O'Donnell
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine; Boston Massachusetts
| | - Max Kiefer
- Western States Office; National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; Denver Colorado
| | - Gregory R. Wagner
- Department of Environmental Health (Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program); Harvard School of Public Health; Boston Massachusetts
| | - David C. Christiani
- Department of Environmental Health (Environmental and Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology Program); Harvard School of Public Health; Boston Massachusetts
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Gaughan DM, Piacitelli CA, Chen BT, Law BF, Virji MA, Edwards NT, Enright PL, Schwegler-Berry DE, Leonard SS, Wagner GR, Kobzik L, Kales SN, Hughes MD, Christiani DC, Siegel PD, Cox-Ganser JM, Hoover MD. Exposures and cross-shift lung function declines in wildland firefighters. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2014; 11:591-603. [PMID: 24568319 PMCID: PMC7781241 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2014.895372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Respiratory problems are common among wildland firefighters. However, there are few studies directly linking occupational exposures to respiratory effects in this population. Our objective was to characterize wildland fire fighting occupational exposures and assess their associations with cross-shift changes in lung function. We studied 17 members of the Alpine Interagency Hotshot Crew with environmental sampling and pulmonary function testing during a large wildfire. We characterized particles by examining size distribution and mass concentration, and conducting elemental and morphological analyses. We examined associations between cross-shift lung function change and various analytes, including levoglucosan, an indicator of wood smoke from burning biomass. The levoglucosan component of the wildfire aerosol showed a predominantly bimodal size distribution: a coarse particle mode with a mass median aerodynamic diameter about 12 μm and a fine particle mode with a mass median aerodynamic diameter < 0.5 μm. Levoglucosan was found mainly in the respirable fraction and its concentration was higher for fire line construction operations than for mop-up operations. Larger cross-shift declines in forced expiratory volume in one second were associated with exposure to higher concentrations of respirable levoglucosan (p < 0.05). Paired analyses of real-time personal air sampling measurements indicated that higher carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations were correlated with higher particulate concentrations when examined by mean values, but not by individual data points. However, low CO concentrations did not provide reliable assurance of concomitantly low particulate concentrations. We conclude that inhalation of fine smoke particles is associated with acute lung function decline in some wildland firefighters. Based on short-term findings, it appears important to address possible long-term respiratory health issues for wildland firefighters. [Supplementary materials are available for this article. Go to the publisher's online edition of Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene for the following free supplemental resources: a file containing additional information on historical studies of wildland fire exposures, a file containing the daily-exposure-severity questionnaire completed by wildland firefighter participants at the end of each day, and a file containing additional details of the investigation of correlations between carbon monoxide concentrations and other measured exposure factors in the current study.].
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise M Gaughan
- a Department of Preventive Medicine and the Institute for Translational Epidemiology , Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York , New York
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Dunn KH, Shulman S, Stock AL, Naeher LP. Personal carbon monoxide exposures among firefighters at prescribed forest burns in the Southeastern United States. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2013; 68:55-59. [PMID: 23298425 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2011.633126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to combustion products from wildland fires causes respiratory irritation and decreased lung function among firefighters. The authors evaluated carbon monoxide (CO) exposures of a group of wildland firefighters who conducted prescribed burns in the southeastern United States of America. A total of 149 person-days of samples were collected using data logging CO monitors. A questionnaire was administered to collect data on job tasks and self-reported smoke exposure. Overall, the highest exposures were seen amongst firefighters assigned to holding and mop-up tasks (geometric mean [GM]: 2.6 ppm), whereas the lowest were associated with lighting and jobs such as burn boss (GM: 1.6 and 0.3 ppm, respectively). The self-reported smoke exposure showed a significant linear trend with increasing CO exposure. The numbers of acres burned or burn duration, however, were not good predictors of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- K H Dunn
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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33
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Greven FE, Krop EJ, Spithoven JJ, Burger N, Rooyackers JM, Kerstjens HA, van der Heide S, Heederik DJ. Acute respiratory effects in firefighters. Am J Ind Med 2012; 55:54-62. [PMID: 21959832 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.21012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/29/2011] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Associations between acute respiratory inflammatory responses, changes in bronchial hyperresponsiveness, serum pneumoprotein levels, and exposure to fire smoke were studied. METHODS The study comprised 51 firefighters. Blood samples were taken within 24 hr following exposure to fire smoke, and after a week and 3 months. Sputum was induced within 5 days post-exposure and subjects underwent spirometry and methacholine provocation one week post-exposure. Exposure was registered by a questionnaire. RESULTS No changes were observed following smoke exposure in bronchial hyperresponsiveness and serum pneumoprotein levels. Nevertheless, in a sizable proportion of the firefighters (44%) elevated sputum neutrophil levels (≥60%) were found. Serum IL-8 concentrations were higher 24 hr post-exposure compared to pre-exposure. Elevated neutrophil levels in sputum were associated with elevated serum IL-8 (β = 0.010, P = 0.004) and TNFα (β = 0.005, P = 0.034) levels within 24 hr post-exposure and IL-8 elevation lasted up to 3 months. CONCLUSIONS Acute exposure to fire smoke induces acute neutrophilic airway and long-lasting systemic inflammation in healthy firefighters in the absence of bronchial hyperresponsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frans E Greven
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, the Netherlands.
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34
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Greven FE, Rooyackers JM, Kerstjens HAM, Heederik DJ. Respiratory symptoms in firefighters. Am J Ind Med 2011; 54:350-5. [PMID: 21246589 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with respiratory symptoms in common firefighters in the Netherlands. METHODS A total of 1,330 firefighters from the municipal fire brigades of three provinces of the Netherlands were included in the study. All subjects were administered a Dutch web-based version of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey questionnaire. RESULTS General respiratory symptoms were associated with the number of fires fought in the last 12 months with odds ratios between 1.2 (95% CI 1.0-1.4) and 1.4 (95% CI 1.2-1.7) per 25 fires. A strong association was found between an inhalation incident and present respiratory symptoms with odds ratios between 1.7 (95% CI 1.1-2.7) and 3.0 (95% CI 1.9-4.7). Adjustments for smoking, sex, atopy, and age did not change any of the associations. After stratification, atopics showed elevated odds ratios. CONCLUSIONS It is recommended that firefighters are aware of these elevated healthcare risks associated with exposure to fire smoke and that they increase as much as possible the use of self-contained breathing apparatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frans E Greven
- Department of Environmental Health, Municipal Health Services Groningen, the Netherlands. f.greven.@hvd.groningen.nl
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35
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Miranda AI, Martins V, Cascão P, Amorim JH, Valente J, Tavares R, Borrego C, Tchepel O, Ferreira AJ, Cordeiro CR, Viegas DX, Ribeiro LM, Pita LP. Monitoring of firefighters exposure to smoke during fire experiments in Portugal. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2010; 36:736-745. [PMID: 20579737 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2010.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2010] [Revised: 03/30/2010] [Accepted: 05/21/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Forest fires represent a serious threat to public security in Europe due to the large burned area. Moreover, smoke pollution due to forest fire events is an important public health issue for the communities directly affected, and particularly for the personnel involved in firefighting operations. Aiming to contribute to the scientific knowledge concerning firefighters exposure to forest fires smoke, data of individual exposure to carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter were obtained during experimental field fires for a group of 10 firefighters equipped with portable "in continuum" measuring devices. Measured values are very high exceeding the Occupational Exposure Standard limits, in particular for peak limit thresholds. These are the first measurements and analysis of firefighter's individual exposure to toxic gases and particles in fire smoke experiments in Europe. However, they already indicate that urgent measures to avoid these levels of exposure are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Miranda
- CESAM & Department of Environment and Planning, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
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36
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Neghab M, Soltanzadeh A, Choobineh A. Respiratory morbidity induced by occupational inhalation exposure to formaldehyde. INDUSTRIAL HEALTH 2010; 49:89-94. [PMID: 20823630 DOI: 10.2486/indhealth.ms1197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The potential of formaldehyde to produce chronic respiratory tract disease remains a controversial issue. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the respiratory effects, if any, of long term occupational exposure to formaldehyde. This cross-sectional study was carried out at a local melamine-formaldehyde resin producing plant. The study population consisted of seventy exposed and 24 non-exposed (referent) employees. Using respiratory questionnaire, data on respiratory symptoms were gathered. Atmospheric concentrations of formaldehyde were measured at different contaminated areas of the plant. Similarly, the parameters of pulmonary function were measured at the beginning (preshift) and at the end (postshift) of the first working day of the week. The results showed that airborne concentrations of formaldehyde exceeded current permissible levels. Additionally, significant decrements in some preshift and postshift parameters of pulmonary function of exposed workers were noted. However, a relative recovery in lung functional capacity observed following temporary cessation of exposure (preshift values). Furthermore, exposed workers had higher prevalence rates of regular cough, wheezing, phlegm, shortness of breath, chest tightness and episodes of chest illness associated with cold. The findings of this study collectively indicate that exposure to formaldehyde may induce respiratory symptoms, acute partially reversible and chronic irreversible functional impairments of the lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Neghab
- Department of Occupational Health, School of Health and Nutrition, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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37
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De Vos AJBM, Reisen F, Cook A, Devine B, Weinstein P. Respiratory irritants in Australian bushfire smoke: air toxics sampling in a smoke chamber and during prescribed burns. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2009; 56:380-388. [PMID: 18712497 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-008-9209-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2007] [Accepted: 07/21/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Bushfire smoke contains an array of organic and inorganic compounds, including respirable and inspirable particles, aldehydes, and carbon monoxide. These compounds have been found to be a health hazard for firefighters in the United States. Despite the high frequency of bushfires in Australia, analyses of bushfire smoke components are scarce. As part of an occupational health study investigating the respiratory health effects of bushfire smoke in firefighters, air toxics sampling was undertaken in a smoke chamber and during prescribed burns. Levels of formaldehyde and acrolein were demonstrated at respectively 60% and 80% of the Short Term Exposure Limit in the smoke chamber. Carbon monoxide levels exceeded the peak limit of 400 ppm significantly. Although concentrations were lower during the prescribed burns, the study shows that Australian bushfire smoke contains air toxics of concern and provides justification for further research into the levels of air toxics measured at bushfires and the associated health impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemarie J B M De Vos
- School of Population Health, The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia.
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38
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De Vos AJBM, Cook A, Devine B, Thompson PJ, Weinstein P. Effect of protective filters on fire fighter respiratory health: field validation during prescribed burns. Am J Ind Med 2009; 52:76-87. [PMID: 18946878 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bushfire smoke contains a range of air toxics. To prevent inhalation of these toxics, fire fighters use respiratory equipment. Yet, little is known about the effectiveness of the equipment on the fire ground. Experimental trials in a smoke chamber demonstrated that, the particulate/organic vapor/formaldehyde (POVF) filter performed best under simulated conditions. This article reports on the field validation trials during prescribed burns in Western Australia. METHODS Sixty-seven career fire fighters from the Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia were allocated one of the three types of filters. Spirometry, oximetry, self-reported symptom, and personal air sampling data were collected before, during and after exposure to bushfire smoke from prescribed burns. RESULTS Declines in FEV(1) and SaO(2) were demonstrated after 60 and 120 min exposure. A significant higher number of participants in the P filter group reported increases in respiratory symptoms after the exposure. Air sampling inside the respirators demonstrated formaldehyde levels significantly higher in the P filter group compared to the POV and the POVF filter group. CONCLUSIONS The field validation trials during prescribed burns supported the findings from the controlled exposure trials in the smoke chamber. Testing the effectiveness of three types of different filters under bushfire smoke conditions in the field for up to 2 hr demonstrated that the P filter is ineffective in filtering out respiratory irritants. The performance of the POV and the POVF filter appears to be equally effective after 2 hr bushfire smoke exposure in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemarie J B M De Vos
- School of Population Health M431, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia.
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39
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Dunn KH, Devaux I, Stock A, Naeher LP. Application of End-Exhaled Breath Monitoring to Assess Carbon Monoxide Exposures of Wildland Firefighters at Prescribed Burns. Inhal Toxicol 2009; 21:55-61. [DOI: 10.1080/08958370802207300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Abstract
Most fatalities from fires are not due to burns, but are a result of inhalation of toxic gases produced during combustion. Fire produces a complex toxic environment involving flame, heat, oxygen depletion, smoke and toxic gases. As a wide variety of synthetic materials is used in buildings (insulation, furniture, carpeting, and decorative items) the potential for severe health impacts from inhalation of products of combustion during building fires is continuously increasing. In forest fires the burning of biomass leads to smoke emissions, the composition of which, as well as the relative health impacts from their inhalation, depends on the ecosystem's chemical and physical features and the local environmental parameters. In the present review, health problems that appear to people exposed to fire smoke and especially to firefighters are described and suggestions for fire management and prevention are made.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Stefanidou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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42
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Robinson MS, Anthony TR, Littau SR, Herckes P, Nelson X, Poplin GS, Burgess JL. Occupational PAH exposures during prescribed pile burns. THE ANNALS OF OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE 2008; 52:497-508. [PMID: 18515848 PMCID: PMC2732184 DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/men027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2007] [Accepted: 05/01/2008] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Wildland firefighters are exposed to particulate matter and gases containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), many of which are known carcinogens. Our objective was to evaluate the extent of firefighter exposure to particulate and PAHs during prescribed pile burns of mainly ponderosa pine slash and determine whether these exposures were correlated with changes in urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-HP), a PAH metabolite. Personal and area sampling for particulate and PAH exposures were conducted on the White Mountain Apache Tribe reservation, working with 21 Bureau of Indian Affairs/Fort Apache Agency wildland firefighters during the fall of 2006. Urine samples were collected pre- and post-exposure and pulmonary function was measured. Personal PAH exposures were detectable for only 3 of 16 PAHs analyzed: naphthalene, phenanthrene, and fluorene, all of which were identified only in vapor-phase samples. Condensed-phase PAHs were detected in PM2.5 area samples (20 of 21 PAHs analyzed were detected, all but naphthalene) at concentrations below 1 microg m(-3). The total PAH/PM2.5 mass fractions were roughly a factor of two higher during smoldering (1.06 +/- 0.15) than ignition (0.55 +/- 0.04 microg mg(-1)). There were no significant changes in urinary 1-HP or pulmonary function following exposure to pile burning. In summary, PAH exposures were low in pile burns, and urinary testing for a PAH metabolite failed to show a significant difference between baseline and post-exposure measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. S. Robinson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - T. R. Anthony
- Community, Environment and Policy, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, 1295 North Martin Avenue, PO Box 245163, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - S. R. Littau
- Community, Environment and Policy, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, 1295 North Martin Avenue, PO Box 245163, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - P. Herckes
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - X. Nelson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - G. S. Poplin
- Community, Environment and Policy, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, 1295 North Martin Avenue, PO Box 245163, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - J. L. Burgess
- Community, Environment and Policy, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, 1295 North Martin Avenue, PO Box 245163, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
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Struve MF, Wong VA, Marshall MW, Kimbell JS, Schroeter JD, Dorman DC. Nasal uptake of inhaled acrolein in rats. Inhal Toxicol 2008; 20:217-25. [PMID: 18300044 DOI: 10.1080/08958370701864219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
An improved understanding of the relationship between inspired concentration of the potent nasal toxicant acrolein and delivered dose is needed to support quantitative risk assessments. The uptake efficiency (UE) of 0.6, 1.8, or 3.6 ppm acrolein was measured in the isolated upper respiratory tract (URT) of anesthetized naive rats under constant-velocity unidirectional inspiratory flow rates of 100 or 300 ml/min for up to 80 min. An additional group of animals was exposed to 0.6 or 1.8 ppm acrolein, 6 h/day, 5 days/wk, for 14 days prior to performing nasal uptake studies (with 1.8 or 3.6 ppm acrolein) at a 100 ml/min airflow rate. Olfactory and respiratory glutathione (GSH) concentrations were also evaluated in naive and acrolein-preexposed rats. Acrolein UE in naive animals was dependent on the concentration of inspired acrolein, airflow rate, and duration of exposure, with increased UE occurring with lower acrolein exposure concentrations. A statistically significant decline in UE occurred during the exposures. Exposure to acrolein vapor resulted in reduced respiratory epithelial GSH concentrations. In acrolein-preexposed animals, URT acrolein UE was also dependent on the acrolein concentration used prior to the uptake exposure, with preexposed rats having higher UE than their naive counterparts. Despite having increased acrolein UE, GSH concentrations in the respiratory epithelium of acrolein preexposed rats were higher at the end of the 80 min acrolein uptake experiment than their in naive rat counterparts, suggesting that an adaptive response in GSH metabolism occurred following acrolein preexposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie F Struve
- CIIT at The Hamner Institutes for Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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44
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Schroeter JD, Kimbell JS, Gross EA, Willson GA, Dorman DC, Tan YM, Clewell HJ. Application of physiological computational fluid dynamics models to predict interspecies nasal dosimetry of inhaled acrolein. Inhal Toxicol 2008; 20:227-43. [PMID: 18300045 DOI: 10.1080/08958370701864235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Acrolein is a highly soluble and reactive aldehyde and is a potent upper-respiratory-tract irritant. Acrolein-induced nasal lesions in rodents include olfactory epithelial atrophy and inflammation, epithelial hyperplasia, and squamous metaplasia of the respiratory epithelium. Nasal uptake of inhaled acrolein in rats is moderate to high, and depends on inspiratory flow rate, exposure duration, and concentration. In this study, anatomically accurate three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models were used to simulate steady-state inspiratory airflow and to quantitatively predict acrolein tissue dose in rat and human nasal passages. A multilayered epithelial structure was included in the CFD models to incorporate clearance of inhaled acrolein by diffusion, blood flow, and first-order and saturable metabolic pathways. Kinetic parameters for these pathways were initially estimated by fitting a pharmacokinetic model with a similar epithelial structure to time-averaged acrolein nasal extraction data and were then further adjusted using the CFD model. Predicted air:tissue flux from the rat nasal CFD model compared well with the distribution of acrolein-induced nasal lesions from a subchronic acrolein inhalation study. These correlations were used to estimate a tissue dose-based no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) for inhaled acrolein. A human nasal CFD model was used to extrapolate effects in laboratory animals to human exposure conditions on the basis of localized tissue dose and tissue responses. Assuming that equivalent tissue dose will induce similar effects across species, a NOAEL human equivalent concentration for inhaled acrolein was estimated to be 8 ppb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffry D Schroeter
- The Hamner Institutes for Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709-2137, USA.
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45
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Bell T, Adams M. Chapter 14 Smoke from Wildfires and Prescribed Burning in Australia: Effects on Human Health and Ecosystems. WILDLAND FIRES AND AIR POLLUTION 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1474-8177(08)00014-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Dokas I, Statheropoulos M, Karma S. Integration of field chemical data in initial risk assessment of forest fire smoke. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2007; 376:72-85. [PMID: 17321566 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2007.01.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2006] [Revised: 12/22/2006] [Accepted: 01/05/2007] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
A risk assessment framework was used to assess the risks of forest fire smoke (ffs) to the exposed communities, critical infrastructures and the environment. The present work is focused on the planning and problem formulation phases of this risk assessment procedure. Specifically, as part of the problem formulation phase, integration of the available ffs chemical data was carried out by answering critical questions regarding the ffs. In this way, critical factors have been identified, which mostly define and characterize ffs as a cause of problems and possible symptoms. The integrated information can be used in order to determine assessment endpoints, conceptual models, and risk hypotheses, as presented in an indicative example referred to a simple risk scenario. This work, enhanced with additional risk scenarios, can be used for the next phases of the risk assessment procedure, such as risk analysis and risk characterization. Future research needs for adequate evaluation of ffs impacts on communities, infrastructures, and the environment are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Dokas
- ADVISES RTN, Universität Paderborn Fakultät für Elektrotechnik, Informatik und Mathematik Institut für Informatik, Fürstenallee 11, 33102 Paderborn, Germany
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Naeher LP, Brauer M, Lipsett M, Zelikoff JT, Simpson CD, Koenig JQ, Smith KR. Woodsmoke health effects: a review. Inhal Toxicol 2007; 19:67-106. [PMID: 17127644 DOI: 10.1080/08958370600985875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 706] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The sentiment that woodsmoke, being a natural substance, must be benign to humans is still sometimes heard. It is now well established, however, that wood-burning stoves and fireplaces as well as wildland and agricultural fires emit significant quantities of known health-damaging pollutants, including several carcinogenic compounds. Two of the principal gaseous pollutants in woodsmoke, CO and NOx, add to the atmospheric levels of these regulated gases emitted by other combustion sources. Health impacts of exposures to these gases and some of the other woodsmoke constituents (e.g., benzene) are well characterized in thousands of publications. As these gases are indistinguishable no matter where they come from, there is no urgent need to examine their particular health implications in woodsmoke. With this as the backdrop, this review approaches the issue of why woodsmoke may be a special case requiring separate health evaluation through two questions. The first question we address is whether woodsmoke should be regulated and/or managed separately, even though some of its separate constituents are already regulated in many jurisdictions. The second question we address is whether woodsmoke particles pose different levels of risk than other ambient particles of similar size. To address these two key questions, we examine several topics: the chemical and physical nature of woodsmoke; the exposures and epidemiology of smoke from wildland fires and agricultural burning, and related controlled human laboratory exposures to biomass smoke; the epidemiology of outdoor and indoor woodsmoke exposures from residential woodburning in developed countries; and the toxicology of woodsmoke, based on animal exposures and laboratory tests. In addition, a short summary of the exposures and health effects of biomass smoke in developing countries is provided as an additional line of evidence. In the concluding section, we return to the two key issues above to summarize (1) what is currently known about the health effects of inhaled woodsmoke at exposure levels experienced in developed countries, and (2) whether there exists sufficient reason to believe that woodsmoke particles are sufficiently different to warrant separate treatment from other regulated particles. In addition, we provide recommendations for additional woodsmoke research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke P Naeher
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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48
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De Vos AJBM, Cook A, Devine B, Thompson PJ, Weinstein P. Effect of protective filters on fire fighter respiratory health during simulated bushfire smoke exposure. Am J Ind Med 2006; 49:740-50. [PMID: 16847937 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bushfire fighters are potentially subject to risks from bushfire smoke. Although many different protective masks and filters are available, it is not clear which is the most effective from a health and safety perspective. The effect of protective filters on the respiratory health of Western Australian urban career fire fighters under controlled simulated conditions is investigated. METHODS Sixty-four healthy Fire and Emergency Services Authority of Western Australia (FESA) urban career fire fighters were subjected to controlled simulated bushfire smoke in an open smoke chamber for 15 min. The fire fighters were allocated one of the three types of protective filters: particulate only (P), particulate/organic vapor (POV), and a particulate/organic vapor/formaldehyde (POVF) filter using a double-blind randomized procedure. Personal air sampling inside the fire fighters' masks, spirometry, oximetry, and self-reported symptom data were collected at baseline and at two time intervals after the smoke exposure. RESULTS A significant decline in oxygen saturation was seen immediately after exposure, however, the decline was small and no significant relationships could be established between this and the type of filter used. A significantly higher number of participants in the P and POV filter groups self-reported an increase in coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath compared to the POVF group. Air sampling demonstrated a significantly higher level of formaldehyde and acrolein inside the masks fitted with P filters compared to POV and POVF filters. CONCLUSIONS Testing the effectiveness of P, POV, and POVF filters under controlled conditions has demonstrated that the POVF filter provides statistically significant better protection for the fire fighters' airways in a simulated bushfire exposure chamber.
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Tzamtzis N, Karma S, Pappa A, Statheropoulos M. On-line monitoring of pine needles combustion emissions in the presence of fire retardant using a “thermogravimetry (TG)-bridge/mass spectrometry method”. Anal Chim Acta 2006; 573-574:439-44. [PMID: 17723558 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2006.05.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2005] [Revised: 04/18/2006] [Accepted: 05/15/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In this work a new method called TG-bridge/mass spectrometry is presented, for the on-line monitoring of the pine needles combustion emissions in a common lab furnace. The TG-bridge (thermogravimetry-bridge) system has been developed in-house as a TG-MS (thermogravimetry-mass spectrometry) interface, for TG-MS analysis. In this work, TG-bridge was used for directly sampling of the combustion emissions from the inside of the furnace and transferring them into the mass spectrometer (MS), without disturbing the sub-pressure conditions inside the MS ion source. The effect of Fire-Trol 931 (a long-term fire retardant) on the emissions, produced during the combustion of pine needles, is tested in the lab for future application in the field. It was shown that in treated samples, increased evolution of ammonia and aromatic compounds took place, compared to untreated samples. Maximum concentrations of specific compounds, such as benzene and toluene, evolved during the combustion experiments in the furnace, were determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Tzamtzis
- School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), 9 Iroon Polytechniou Str., Athens 157 73, Greece.
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Naeher LP, Achtemeier GL, Glitzenstein JS, Streng DR, Macintosh D. Real-time and time-integrated PM2.5 and CO from prescribed burns in chipped and non-chipped plots: firefighter and community exposure and health implications. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2006; 16:351-61. [PMID: 16736059 DOI: 10.1038/sj.jes.7500497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
In this study, smoke data were collected from two plots located on the Francis Marion National Forest in South Carolina during prescribed burns on 12 February 2003. One of the plots had been subjected to mechanical chipping, the other was not. This study is part of a larger investigation of fire behavior related to mechanical chipping, parts of which are presented elsewhere. The primary objective of the study reported herein was to measure PM(2.5) and CO exposures from prescribed burn smoke from a mechanically chipped vs. non-chipped site. Ground-level time-integrated PM(2.5) samplers (n=9/plot) were placed at a height of 1.5 m around the sampling plots on the downwind side separated by approximately 20 m. Elevated time-integrated PM(2.5) samplers (n=4/plot) were hung atop approximately 30 ft poles at positions within the interior of each of the plots. Real-time PM(2.5) and CO data were collected at downwind locations on the perimeter of each plot. Time-integrated perimeter 12-h PM(2.5) concentrations in the non-chipped plot (AVG 519.9 microg/m(3), SD 238.8 microg/m(3)) were significantly higher (1-tail P-value 0.01) than those at the chipped plot (AVG 198.1 microg/m(3), SD 71.6 microg/m(3)). Similarly, interior time-integrated 8-h PM(2.5) concentrations in the non-chipped plot (AVG 773.4 microg/m(3), SD 321.8 microg/m(3)) were moderately higher (1-tail P-value 0.06) than those at the chipped plot (AVG 460.3 microg/m(3), SD 147.3 microg/m(3)). Real-time PM(2.5) and CO data measured at a position in the chipped plot were uniformly lower than those observed at the same position in the non-chipped plot over the same time period. These results demonstrate that smoke exposures resulting from burned chipped plots are considerably lower than from burned non-chipped plots. These findings have potentially important implications for both firefighters working prescribed burnings at chipped vs. non-chipped sites, as well as nearby communities who may be impacted from smoke traveling downwind from these sights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke P Naeher
- Department of Environmental Health Science, The University of Georgia, College of Public Health, Athens, 30602-2102, USA.
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