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Ornelas Van Horne Y, Johnston JE, Barahona DD, Razafy M, Kamai EM, Ruiz BC, Eckel SP, Bejarano E, Olmedo L, Farzan SF. Exposure to agricultural pesticides and wheezing among 5-12-year-old children in the Imperial Valley, CA, USA. Environ Epidemiol 2024; 8:e325. [PMID: 39165346 PMCID: PMC11335338 DOI: 10.1097/ee9.0000000000000325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Exposure to pesticides has been linked to adverse respiratory health outcomes in children. Methods We leveraged the Children's Assessing Imperial Valley Respiratory Health and the Environment cohort located in the rural community of Imperial Valley near the US-Mexico border. We calculated the kilograms of total pesticides applied within 400 m of children's residential addresses for the years 2016-2020. Estimated pesticide usage near homes was categorized into three groups (none vs. low vs. high [split at the median]). All health variables (i.e., asthma status and wheezing) were derived from a parent-reported questionnaire on respiratory health. We used generalized linear models, controlling for child sex, the language of survey, health insurance, respondents' highest education, and exposure to environmental secondhand smoking, to calculate prevalence differences between none versus low and high exposure to agricultural pesticides. Results Approximately 62% of the 708 children (aged 5-12 years) lived within 400 m of at least one pesticide application within 12 months prior to survey administration. Exposure to pesticides within 400 m of children's residences was associated with 12-month prior wheeze. Those in the "high" exposure group had a prevalence of wheezing that was 10 (95% confidence interval: 2%, 17%) percentage points higher than among children not exposed to pesticide applications. Associations for high exposure to specific categories of pesticide applications, sulfur only, all pesticides except sulfur, chlorpyrifos, and glyphosate, also were observed with a higher prevalence of wheezing than among children not exposed to pesticide applications. Conclusions We observed associations between living near pesticide applications and more wheeze symptoms among children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshira Ornelas Van Horne
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City, New York
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jill E. Johnston
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Dayane Duenas Barahona
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mitiasoa Razafy
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Elizabeth M. Kamai
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Brandyn C. Ruiz
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sandrah P. Eckel
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - Luis Olmedo
- Comite Civico Del Valle, Brawley, California
| | - Shohreh F. Farzan
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
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Wang YF, Gao F, Jiang YH, Xia RW, Wang X, Li L, Wang XL, Yun YN, Zou YX. Association of pyrethroids exposure with asthma in US children and adolescents: a nationally representative cross-sectional study. Eur J Pediatr 2024:10.1007/s00431-024-05696-z. [PMID: 39060431 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-024-05696-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Pyrethroids (PYR) are among the most widely used insecticides in households, leading to substantial exposure. Children and adolescents, especially during growth spurts, have a reduced capacity to effectively metabolize these insecticides. The relationship between PYR exposure and asthma in these age groups remains poorly understood, highlighting the need for further research.We used data from the 2007-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, which included 1181 children aged 6-11 years and 1258 adolescents aged 12-19 years. The concentration of the PYR metabolite 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA) in urine was quantified using solid-phase extraction-high-performance liquid chromatography-heated electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Asthma was defined based on self-reported doctor diagnoses from the questionnaire. PYR exposure was measured using urine samples collected simultaneously with the questionnaire. We explored the association between PYR exposure and asthma using multiple logistic regression analyses, adjusting for potential confounders.Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed no significant association between PYR exposure and asthma in children and adolescent boys (all P > 0.05). In contrast, PYR exposure was significantly associated with asthma in adolescent girls aged 12-19 years. Specifically, for "ever asthma," the odds ratios (ORs) were 2.49 (95% CI = 1.03-5.97) in the second quartile of PYR exposure and 2.48 (95% CI = 1.04-5.91) in the third quartile, each in comparison to the first quartile. For "current asthma," in comparison to the first quartile, the ORs were 3.99 (95% CI = 1.55-10.26) in the second quartile of PYR exposure, 3.39 (95% CI = 1.32-8.70) in the third quartile, and 2.93 (95% CI = 1.24-6.90) in the fourth quartile.Conclusions:Our study found a significant association between PYR exposure and asthma in adolescent girls, whereas no significant association was observed in children and adolescent boys. These findings suggest potential sex and age differences in susceptibility to PYR exposure. Further research is warranted to confirm these results and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Fan Wang
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Pulmonology, Tianjin Children's Hospital (Children's Hospital of Tianjin University), Machang Campus, 225 Machang Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300074, China
| | - Fei Gao
- Department of Pulmonology, Tianjin Children's Hospital (Children's Hospital of Tianjin University), Machang Campus, 225 Machang Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300074, China
| | - Yu-Han Jiang
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Pulmonology, Tianjin Children's Hospital (Children's Hospital of Tianjin University), Machang Campus, 225 Machang Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300074, China
| | - Rui-Wen Xia
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Pulmonology, Tianjin Children's Hospital (Children's Hospital of Tianjin University), Machang Campus, 225 Machang Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300074, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Pulmonology, Tianjin Children's Hospital (Children's Hospital of Tianjin University), Machang Campus, 225 Machang Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300074, China
| | - Li Li
- Clinical School of Paediatrics, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Pulmonology, Tianjin Children's Hospital (Children's Hospital of Tianjin University), Machang Campus, 225 Machang Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300074, China
| | - Xue-Lin Wang
- Department of Pulmonology, Tianjin Children's Hospital (Children's Hospital of Tianjin University), Machang Campus, 225 Machang Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300074, China
| | - Ya-Nan Yun
- Department of Pulmonology, Tianjin Children's Hospital (Children's Hospital of Tianjin University), Machang Campus, 225 Machang Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300074, China
| | - Ying-Xue Zou
- Department of Pulmonology, Tianjin Children's Hospital (Children's Hospital of Tianjin University), Machang Campus, 225 Machang Road, Hexi District, Tianjin, 300074, China.
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Keleb A, Daba C, Asmare L, Bayou FD, Arefaynie M, Mohammed A, Tareke AA, Kebede N, Tsega Y, Endawkie A, Kebede SD, Abera KM, Abeje ET, Enyew EB. The association between children's exposure to pesticides and asthma, wheezing, and lower respiratory tract infections. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1402908. [PMID: 38868160 PMCID: PMC11167956 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1402908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Exposure to pesticides is a global public health problem, especially for children. Its association with chronic respiratory disease among children has attracted considerable attention, but the existing evidence remains inconclusive and cannot be certain. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aim to determine the global pooled effect size of association with pesticide exposure and asthma, wheezing, and respiratory tract infections among children. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted for relevant literature from electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Hinari, Semantic Scholar, and Science Direct. Studies that provided effect size on the association between pesticide exposure and childhood asthma, wheezing, and respiratory tract infections in children were included. The articles were screened, data was extracted, and the quality of each study was assessed with four independent reviewers. Random effects models for significant heterogeneity and fixed effect models for homogeneous studies were conducted to estimate pooled effect sizes with 95% confidence intervals using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version 3.3.070 and MetaXL version 2. Funnel plot and Higgins I 2 statistics were used to determine the heterogeneity of the included studies. Subgroup analyses were computed based on the types of pesticide exposure, study design, sample size category, and outcome assessment technique. Result A total of 38 articles with 118,303 children less than 18 years of age were included in this meta-analysis. Pesticide exposure among children increased the risk of asthma by 24%; (OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.14-1.35) with extreme heterogeneity (I 2 = 81%, p < 0.001). Exposure to pesticides increased the odds of developing wheezing among children by 34% (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.14-1.57), with high heterogeneity (I 2 = 79%, p < 0.001) and also increased the risk of developing lower respiratory tract infection by 79% (OR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.45-2.21) with nonsignificant low heterogeneity (I 2 = 30%, p-value = 0.18). Conclusion This meta-analysis provided valuable evidence supporting the association between childhood asthma, wheezing, and lower respiratory tract infection with pesticide exposure. The findings would contribute to a better understanding of the estimate of the effect of pesticide exposure on respiratory health in children and inform evidence-based preventive strategies and public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awoke Keleb
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Chala Daba
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Lakew Asmare
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Fekade Demeke Bayou
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Mastewal Arefaynie
- Department of Reproductive and Family Health, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Anissa Mohammed
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Abiyu Abadi Tareke
- Amref Health in Africa, COVID-19 Vaccine/EPI Technical Assistant at West Gondar Zonal Health Department, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Natnael Kebede
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Yawkal Tsega
- Department of Health System and Management, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Abel Endawkie
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Shimels Derso Kebede
- Department of Health Informatics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Kaleab Mesfin Abera
- Department of Health System and Management, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Eyob Tilahun Abeje
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Ermias Bekele Enyew
- Department of Health Informatics, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
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Jestin-Guyon N, Raherison-Semjen C. [Pesticide exposure and chronic respiratory diseases]. Rev Mal Respir 2024; 41:343-371. [PMID: 38594123 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmr.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pesticides are used worldwide, mainly in agriculture as a means of controlling pests and protecting crops. That said, the entire world population is ultimately subject to pesticide exposure (consumption of fruits and vegetables, living near treated fields…), with varying degrees of toxicity involved. STATE OF THE ART In recent decades, epidemiological studies have contributed to the identification of chemical pesticide families with detrimental effects on human health: cognitive disorders, Parkinson's disease, prostate cancer… and impairment in respiratory functioning. Current scientific evidence points to the implication of the active substances in insecticides, herbicides and fungicides in chronic respiratory diseases, two examples being chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in exposed workers, and asthmatic wheezing in children during prenatal or postnatal exposure. PERSPECTIVES The safety of individuals exposed to pesticides is of key importance in public health. Further epidemiological investigations are needed to identify the chemical families affecting certain populations. CONCLUSIONS The scientific literature suggests strong links between pesticide exposure and respiratory health. Whether it be environmental or occupational, pesticide exposure can lead to respiratory disorders and symptoms of varying severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Jestin-Guyon
- UMR1219 Bordeaux Population Health Centre de Recherche, ISPED, université de Bordeaux, 146, rue Léo-Saignat, 33000 Bordeaux, France.
| | - C Raherison-Semjen
- UMR1219 Bordeaux Population Health Centre de Recherche, ISPED, université de Bordeaux, 146, rue Léo-Saignat, 33000 Bordeaux, France; Centre hospitalier universitaire de la Guadeloupe, 97159 Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe
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Mthethwa M, Jeebhay M, Olaniyan T, Wiesner L, Parker B, Leaner J, Röösli M, Dalvie MA. The Association Between Urinary Concentrations of Organophosphate Metabolites and Asthma-Related Outcomes Among Schoolchildren From Informal Settlements. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1606174. [PMID: 37674664 PMCID: PMC10477361 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1606174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: There is inconsistent evidence on the relationship between pesticide exposure and childhood respiratory outcomes in non-agricultural settings. This study investigated the association between organophosphate (OP) pesticide exposure and asthma-related outcomes in children residing in four informal settlements. Methods: The study was a longitudinal study of 590 schoolchildren, with a 12 months follow-up period. A standardised questionnaire adopted from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood was administered to caregivers for child's respiratory symptoms and household characteristics. Spirometry and fractional-exhaled nitric oxide, including a phadiatop test (atopy status) and urinary dialkyl phosphate (DAP) metabolites were measured at baseline and follow-up. DAP metabolites included diethylphosphate (DEP) and dimethyl phosphate (DMP) measured at baseline and follow-up and dimethylthiophosphate (DMTP) measured only at baseline. Results: The mean ages of schoolchildren were 9.9 ± 0.91 years and the overal incidence proportions of new doctor diagnosed asthma was 2.2%. No consistent patterns of increased risk of asthma outcomes with increasing DAP concentrations was found in multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Future studies with longer follow-up periods and repeated OP biomonitoring are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mashudu Mthethwa
- Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mohamed Jeebhay
- Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Occupational Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Toyib Olaniyan
- Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lubbe Wiesner
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bhawoodien Parker
- Department of Environmental Affairs and Developmental Planning, Western Cape Government, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joy Leaner
- Department of Environmental Affairs and Developmental Planning, Western Cape Government, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Martin Röösli
- Swiss Tropical Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mohamed Aqiel Dalvie
- Centre for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Pathak VM, Verma VK, Rawat BS, Kaur B, Babu N, Sharma A, Dewali S, Yadav M, Kumari R, Singh S, Mohapatra A, Pandey V, Rana N, Cunill JM. Current status of pesticide effects on environment, human health and it's eco-friendly management as bioremediation: A comprehensive review. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:962619. [PMID: 36060785 PMCID: PMC9428564 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.962619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pesticides are either natural or chemically synthesized compounds that are used to control a variety of pests. These chemical compounds are used in a variety of sectors like food, forestry, agriculture and aquaculture. Pesticides shows their toxicity into the living systems. The World Health Organization (WHO) categorizes them based on their detrimental effects, emphasizing the relevance of public health. The usage can be minimized to a least level by using them sparingly with a complete grasp of their categorization, which is beneficial to both human health and the environment. In this review, we have discussed pesticides with respect to their global scenarios, such as worldwide distribution and environmental impacts. Major literature focused on potential uses of pesticides, classification according to their properties and toxicity and their adverse effect on natural system (soil and aquatic), water, plants (growth, metabolism, genotypic and phenotypic changes and impact on plants defense system), human health (genetic alteration, cancer, allergies, and asthma), and preserve food products. We have also described eco-friendly management strategies for pesticides as a green solution, including bacterial degradation, myco-remediation, phytoremediation, and microalgae-based bioremediation. The microbes, using catabolic enzymes for degradation of pesticides and clean-up from the environment. This review shows the importance of finding potent microbes, novel genes, and biotechnological applications for pesticide waste management to create a sustainable environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vijay K. Verma
- Department of Microbiology, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Balwant Singh Rawat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gurukul Kangri Deemed to be University, Haridwar, India
| | - Baljinder Kaur
- Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Neelesh Babu
- Department of Microbiology, Baba Farid Institute of Technology, Sudhowala, India
| | - Akansha Sharma
- Allergy and Immunology Section, CSIR-IGIB, New Delhi, India
| | - Seeta Dewali
- Laboratory of Alternative Protocols in Zoology and Biotechnology Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kumaun University, Nainital, India
| | - Monika Yadav
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Reshma Kumari
- Department of Botany & Microbiology, Gurukul Kangri Deemed to be University, Haridwar, India
| | - Sevaram Singh
- Multidisciplinary Clinical Translational Research, Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad, India
- Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Asutosh Mohapatra
- Food Process Engineering, National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management, Thanjavur, India
| | - Varsha Pandey
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidyapith, Newai Tonk, India
| | - Nitika Rana
- Department of Environmental Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan, India
| | - Jose Maria Cunill
- Biotechnology Engineering, Universidad Politécnica Metropolitana de Puebla, Mexico, Mexico
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Xiao S, Ngo AL, Mendola P, Bates MN, Barcellos AL, Ferrara A, Zhu Y. Household mold, pesticide use, and childhood asthma: A nationwide study in the U.S. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2021; 233:113694. [PMID: 33556714 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2021.113694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the associations of household mold and pesticide use with risk of childhood asthma and examine the potential effect modification by child's sex at a national level in the U.S. METHODS Nationally representative data were drawn from the cross-sectional 2017 and 2018 National Surveys of Children's Health. Household mold and pesticide exposures during the past 12 months and physician-diagnosed childhood asthma were assessed by standard questionnaires administered to primary caregivers. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for current asthma, adjusting for child, caregiver, and household covariates. We also examined potential effect modification by child's sex. Sampling weights accounted for the complex survey design. RESULTS Among 41,423 U.S. children in 2017-2018, the weighted prevalence of current asthma was 10.8% in household mold-exposed children, compared with 7.2% in non-exposed children (P < 0.001). After adjusting for covariates including child's obesity, children with household mold exposure compared to those with no household mold exposure had a 1.41-fold (95% CI: 1.07, 1.87) higher odds of current asthma. Associations between household mold and current asthma were pronounced among boys (aOR 1.57; 95% CI: 1.03-2.38) but not girls (aOR 1.28; 0.90-1.83; P for interaction <0.001). No significant associations were observed between household pesticide use and current asthma, after adjusting for covariates. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that household mold is associated with current asthma among children, independent of other major risk factors including child's obesity status. Our findings may inform strategies targeting mitigation of household mold as an important indoor environment factor to address childhood asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Xiao
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, United States
| | - Amanda L Ngo
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Pauline Mendola
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Michael N Bates
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, United States
| | - Anna L Barcellos
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, United States
| | - Assiamira Ferrara
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Yeyi Zhu
- Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research, Oakland, CA, United States; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States.
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8
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Malaeb D, Hallit S, Sacre H, Hallit R, Salameh P. Factors associated with wheezing among Lebanese children: Results of a cross-sectional study. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2020; 48:523-529. [PMID: 32402625 DOI: 10.1016/j.aller.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Lebanon, asthma is underdiagnosed due to low access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas, although asthma diagnosis in children is based mainly on clinical symptoms. Thus, wheezing might be more suggestive of undiagnosed respiratory diseases including asthma in Lebanese children. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with wheezing in Lebanese children without asthma diagnosis. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2015 and April 2016, enrolling a total of 1203 schoolchildren. RESULTS Out of 1500 prepared questionnaires, 1380 questionnaires were distributed in schools, and 1203 (87.17%) were collected back from the parents of children aged between 4-17 years old. The sample included 42 (3.5%) [95% CI 0.025-0.045] children with reported chronic wheezing. A multivariable analysis was performed taking the presence versus absence of wheezing in children as the dependent variable. The results showed that spraying pesticides at home (aOR=1.91), presence of humidity at home (aOR=2.21) and child reflux (aOR=2.60) were significantly associated with the presence of wheezing in children. CONCLUSION The findings of the study suggest that certain environmental factors, such as pesticides, humidity at home and reflux disease, might be associated with wheezing episodes in children. Those factors can be prevented through raising awareness by health care professionals.
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9
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Gilden R, Friedmann E, Holmes K, Yolton K, Xu Y, Lanphear B, Chen A, Braun J, Spanier A. Gestational Pesticide Exposure and Child Respiratory Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7165. [PMID: 33007939 PMCID: PMC7579149 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17197165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood wheeze may be related to pesticide exposure, and diet and genetics (Paroxonase; PON1) may modify the effects of exposure. METHODS We analyzed data from the HOME Study, a prospective pregnancy and birth cohort, to examine the association of gestational urinary organophosphate (OP) and pyrethroid (3PBA) metabolite concentrations with child wheeze, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) at ages 4 and 5 years, and wheeze trajectory patterns through age 8 years. RESULTS Among 367 singletons, the frequency of wheeze ranged from 10.6% to 24.1% at each measurement age. OP and 3PBA metabolite concentrations were not associated with wheeze at 8 years or from birth to 8 years, but there were three significant interactions: (1) maternal daily fruit and vegetable consumption (less than daily consumption and increasing 3PBA was associated with wheeze at age 8 years, OR = 1.40), (2) maternal PON1-108 allele (CT/TT genotypes and high DE was associated with wheeze at age 8 years, OR = 2.13, 2.74) and (3) PON1192 alleles (QR/RR genotypes with higher diethylphosphate (DE) and dialkyl phosphate (DAP) were associated with wheeze at age 8 years, OR = 3.84). Pesticide metabolites were not consistently related to FEV1 or wheeze trajectory. CONCLUSIONS Gestational OP and 3PBA metabolites were associated with child respiratory outcomes in participants with maternal dietary and genetic susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Gilden
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Erika Friedmann
- Office of Research and Scholarship, University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (E.F.); (K.H.)
| | - Katie Holmes
- Office of Research and Scholarship, University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (E.F.); (K.H.)
| | - Kimberly Yolton
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (K.Y.); (Y.X.)
| | - Yingying Xu
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; (K.Y.); (Y.X.)
| | - Bruce Lanphear
- Department of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada;
| | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Joseph Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA;
| | - Adam Spanier
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of General Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
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Kamath GR, Renteria AS, Jagannath S, Gallagher EJ, Parekh S, Bickell NA. Where you live can impact your cancer risk: a look at multiple myeloma in New York City. Ann Epidemiol 2020; 48:43-50.e4. [PMID: 32620423 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To visualize variation in multiple myeloma (MM) incidence and mortality rates by race-ethnicity and geographic location and evaluate their correlation with neighborhood-level population covariates within New York City (NYC). METHODS Trends and racial differences in MM incidence and mortality for the United States [Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Cancer Registry (SEER), National Center for Health Statistics], and NYC [New York State Cancer Registry] were compared using Joinpoint regression. Pearson's correlation coefficients measured neighborhood-level MM-covariate relationships (n = 34). RESULTS MM incidence rates are double in African-Americans compared with Whites, in SEER-13 areas (rate ratio (RR) = 2.27; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.22-2.32) and NYC (RR = 2.11; 95% CI = 2.03-2.20). Incidence rates increased faster in NYC (average annual percentage change difference, -1.1; 95% CI, -2.3 to -0.1). NYC African-American men experienced the steepest increase in mortality rates after 2001. In NYC, strong neighborhood-level correlations exist between incidence and mortality rates and high prevalence of residents of African ancestry, Latin American birth, daily sugary beverage and low fruit and vegetable consumption, and neighborhood walkability. Higher MM mortality also correlates with Hispanic ethnicity, obesity, diabetes, poverty, HIV/AIDS, air benzene concentration, and indoor pesticide use. CONCLUSIONS NYC neighborhoods with large minority populations have higher prevalence of poverty-related factors associated with MM incidence and mortality, warranting public health policies to address exposures and access to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geetanjali R Kamath
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Anne S Renteria
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Disease, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Sundar Jagannath
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Emily Jane Gallagher
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Disease, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Samir Parekh
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Nina A Bickell
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, The Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY.
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Andualem Z, Azene ZN, Azanaw J, Taddese AA, Dagne H. Acute respiratory symptoms and its associated factors among mothers who have under five-years-old children in northwest, Ethiopia. Environ Health Prev Med 2020; 25:20. [PMID: 32539699 PMCID: PMC7296770 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-020-00859-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poor air quality of the household is likely to be the largest public health concern in resource-constrained countries. Exposure to household air pollution, poor working environment, and fuel type used at household level have been associated with respiratory symptoms. This study aimed to assess acute respiratory symptoms and its associated factors among mothers who have under five-years-old children in Gondar city, northwest Ethiopia. Method A cross-sectional study was carried out from February 15, 2019 to June 20, 2019. Study participants were selected using simple random sampling, and data were collected via face-to-face interviews. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to test the association of explanatory and outcome variables. Variables with p < 0.05 were considered as significantly associated with the outcome variable. Results The prevalence of respiratory symptoms among mothers of under-five years-old children in this study was 46.1%. Education (vocational training compared to cannot read and write) (adjusted odd ratio (AOR) = 0.26 at 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.08–0.82), working in dusty environment (AOR = 2.90 at 95% CI: 1.39–6.08), wood fire use (AOR = 0.37 at 95% CI: 0.16–0.85), living in mud- and wood-walled houses (AOR = 0.53 at CI: 0.32–0.89), recent house painting (AOR = 1.95 at 95% CI: 1.03–3.69), new carpet (AOR = 2.02 at 95% CI: 1.08–3.77), pesticide use (AOR = 1.71 at 95% CI: 1.03–2.84), damp stain (AOR = 2.45 at 95% CI: 1.04–5.75), spending longer time in house for 6 to 11 h (AOR = 2.59 at 95% CI: 1.53–4.37) and 11 to 15 h (AOR = 3.47 at 95% CI: 1.87–6.43), and living less than 100 m from unpaved roads/streets (AOR = 4.35 at 95% CI: 2.64–7.18) were significantly associated with respiratory symptoms among mothers of under-five years-old children. Conclusion Respiratory symptoms were common among mothers who have under five-years-old children. Air quality improvement, fuel selection, and residential planning will help to reduce respiratory symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zewudu Andualem
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Zelalem Nigussie Azene
- Department of Women's and Family Health, School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Jember Azanaw
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Asefa Adimasu Taddese
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Henok Dagne
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Buralli RJ, Dultra AF, Ribeiro H. Respiratory and Allergic Effects in Children Exposed to Pesticides-A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17082740. [PMID: 32316194 PMCID: PMC7254369 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Pesticide exposure may affect children’s respiratory and allergic health, although results from epidemiological studies have not reached consensus. This review aims to analyze the scientific evidence on respiratory and allergic effects of exposure to agricultural pesticides in children aged up to 12 years old. The databases PubMed, Web of Science, Scielo, and Lilacs were screened to select articles published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese, and 21 articles were included in this review. Most investigations were conducted in North America (mostly in the United States), while no studies conducted in Latin America or Africa were found, despite their intensive use of pesticides. Children are exposed to pesticides through multiple pathways from the prenatal period throughout later developmental stages and may experience several respiratory effects. Most studies (79%) found positive associations with pesticide exposure and children’s respiratory and allergic effects such as asthma, wheezing, coughs, acute respiratory infections, hay fever, rhinitis, eczema, chronic phlegm, and lung function impairments. Contrastingly, 21% of the studies found no associations between pesticide exposure and children’s respiratory health. The vast differences among the characteristics of the studies hamper any comparison of the results. Exposure to pesticides may have several impacts on childhood respiratory health. More studies must be conducted, especially in low- and middle-income countries, preferably with comparable research protocols adapted to local realities. Efforts should be made to develop comprehensive risk mitigation strategies and behavioral interventions to reduce children’s exposure to pesticides used in agriculture and respiratory health effects, and to ensure healthy childhood growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Junqueira Buralli
- Departamento de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo-SP 01246-904, Brazil; (A.F.D.); (H.R.)
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Public Health Emergency Surveillance, Brazilian Ministry of Health (DSASTE/SVS/MS), Brasília-DF 70723-040, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-11-3061-7894
| | - Amana Freitas Dultra
- Departamento de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo-SP 01246-904, Brazil; (A.F.D.); (H.R.)
| | - Helena Ribeiro
- Departamento de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo-SP 01246-904, Brazil; (A.F.D.); (H.R.)
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13
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Benka-Coker W, Loftus C, Karr C, Magzamen S. Association of Organophosphate Pesticide Exposure and a Marker of Asthma Morbidity in an Agricultural Community. J Agromedicine 2019; 25:106-114. [PMID: 31130077 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2019.1619644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: We explored the short-term impact of pesticide exposure on asthma exacerbation among children with asthma in an agricultural community.Methods: We obtained repeated urine samples from a subset of 16 school-age children with asthma (n = 139 samples) as part of the Aggravating Factors of Asthma in a Rural Environment (AFARE) study cohort. Biomarkers of organophosphate (OP) pesticide exposure (dialkylphosphates (DAPs)), and asthma exacerbation (leukotriene E4 (uLTE4)) were assessed in urine samples. We used generalized estimating equations to examine the association of summed measures of creatinine-adjusted DAPs (total dimethyl alkylphosphate (EDM), total diethyl alkylphosphate (EDE), and total dialkylphosphate pesticides (EDAP)) and uLTE4 concentration, adjusting for multiple confounders, yielding beta-coefficients with 95% CIs.Results: A total of 139 observations were obtained from the 16 children over the study period, the total number of samples per subject ranged from 1 to 12 (median: 10.5). The geometric mean (GM) of creatinine-adjusted EDE, EDM, and EDAP in this population were 81.0, 71.8 and 168.0 nmol/g, respectively. Increase in uLTE4 levels was consistently associated with increased exposures to DAPs (interquartile range in μg/g): βEDE: 8.7 (95%CI: 2.8, 14.6); βEDM: 1.1 (0.5, 1.7); βEDAP: 4.1 (0.7, 7.5).Conclusion: This study suggests that short-term OP exposure is associated with a higher risk of asthma morbidity, as indicated by increased uLTE4 levels in this cohort of children with asthma in an agricultural community. Additional studies are required to confirm these adverse effects, and explore the mechanisms underlying this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wande Benka-Coker
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Christine Loftus
- Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Catherine Karr
- Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sheryl Magzamen
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
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14
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Raherison C, Baldi I, Pouquet M, Berteaud E, Moesch C, Bouvier G, Canal-Raffin M. Pesticides Exposure by Air in Vineyard Rural Area and Respiratory Health in Children: A pilot study. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 169:189-195. [PMID: 30466012 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/02/2018] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Asthma, frequently associated with rhinitis, is the most common chronic disease in children, and a significant role is played by a range of environmental exposures. Among them, air pollution is of foremost concern. However, little is known about the impact of airborne pesticide exposure on children's respiratory health in rural areas. The objective of this study was to analyze the association between airborne pesticide exposure and asthma and rhinitis in children. METHODS In a French vineyard rural area, children (3-10 years old) from 4 selected schools were invited to participate in this study over two periods: winter, with no or low air pesticide levels, and summer when fields are frequently treated with pesticides. Two health outcomes were considered: asthma and rhinitis symptoms (ISAAC questionnaire), and peak expiratory flow (PEF). A quantitative score of symptoms was built. Exposure to pesticides was evaluated 1) by measuring 56 pesticides in the ambient outdoor air around schools in the two periods and building a cumulative exposure index, and 2) by measuring ethylenethiourea (ETU) concentrations in urine in a subsample of children (n = 96), ETU being a urine biomarker of exposure to dithiocarbamates fungicides. Next, the association between pesticide exposure and respiratory health was studied using a logistic regression model, adjusted for confounders and respiratory status at baseline. RESULTS 281 children participated in the study (47% girls, mean age: 7.5 yrs). 25% of the children were living on a farm. 22% had experienced wheezing at least once. 15.8% had asthma diagnosed by a doctor, 12% had current asthma and 35% had allergic rhinitis. The main pesticides detected in the ambient outdoor air around schools were fungicides (89,3%; mainly folpet and dithiocarbamates) and insecticides (10.6%). No association was found between the symptom score and pesticides in the outdoor air around schools during summer, when pesticides were applied to vineyards. However, an association was found between ETU urinary concentration (>0.974 μg/g creatinine) and asthma and rhinitis symptoms (OR=3.56; IC 95% 1.04-12.12). This result could be explained by extracurricular exposure, which was not considered in our air measurements in the schools. No association was found between peak expiratory flow and exposure to pesticides in the air. CONCLUSIONS Children living in vineyard rural areas are at a higher risk of airborne dithiocarbamates exposure during the summer period. Despite the limited size of our sample, our results suggest possible links between some pesticide measurements and respiratory and allergic symptoms such as rhinitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Raherison
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, team EPICENE, UMR 1219, F-33000 Bordeaux, France; Service des Maladies Respiratoires, CHU Bordeaux, France.
| | - I Baldi
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, team EPICENE, UMR 1219, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - M Pouquet
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, team EPICENE, UMR 1219, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - E Berteaud
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, team EPICENE, UMR 1219, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - C Moesch
- Service de Pharmacologie et de Toxicologie, CHU Dupuytren, Limoges, France
| | - G Bouvier
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, team EPICENE, UMR 1219, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - M Canal-Raffin
- Univ. Bordeaux, Inserm, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, team EPICENE, UMR 1219, F-33000 Bordeaux, France; Laboratoire de Pharmacologie Clinique et de Toxicologie, CHU Bordeaux, France
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15
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Levy JI, Quirós-Alcalá L, Fabian MP, Basra K, Hansel NN. Established and Emerging Environmental Contributors to Disparities in Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. CURR EPIDEMIOL REP 2018; 5:114-124. [PMID: 30319934 PMCID: PMC6178976 DOI: 10.1007/s40471-018-0149-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Multiple respiratory diseases, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), display significant socioeconomic and racial/ethnic disparities. The objective of this review is to evaluate the evidence supporting a link between disproportionate environmental exposures and these health disparities. RECENT FINDINGS Studies suggest that various co-occurring factors related to the home environment, neighborhood environment, non-modifiable individual factors, and individual behaviors and attributes can increase or modify the risk of adverse respiratory outcomes among socioeconomically-disadvantaged and racially/ethnically diverse populations. Pollutants in the home environment, including particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and pesticides, are elevated among lower socioeconomic status populations and have been implicated in the development or exacerbation of respiratory-related conditions. Neighborhood crime and green space are socioeconomically patterned and linked with asthma outcomes through psychosocial pathways. Non-modifiable individual factors such as genetic predisposition cannot explain environmental health disparities but can increase susceptibility to air pollution and other stressors. Individual behaviors and attributes, including obesity and physical activity, contribute to worse outcomes among those with asthma or COPD. SUMMARY The root causes of these multifactorial exposures are complex, but many likely stem from economic forces and racial/ethnic and economic segregation that influence the home environment, neighborhood environment, and access to healthy foods and consumer products. Critical research needs include investigations that characterize exposure to and health implications of numerous stressors simultaneously, both to guard against potential confounding in epidemiological investigations and to consider the cumulative impact of multiple elevated environmental exposures and sociodemographic stressors on health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan I. Levy
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health
| | - Lesliam Quirós-Alcalá
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, University of Maryland School of Public Health; Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University
| | - M. Patricia Fabian
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health
| | - Komal Basra
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health
| | - Nadia N. Hansel
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University
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16
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Svendsen ER, Gonzales M, Commodore A. The role of the indoor environment: Residential determinants of allergy, asthma and pulmonary function in children from a US-Mexico border community. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 616-617:1513-1523. [PMID: 29107378 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.10.162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 09/30/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The El Paso Children's Health Study examined environmental risk factors for allergy and asthma among fourth and fifth grade schoolchildren living in a major United States-Mexico border city. Complete questionnaire information was available for 5210 children, while adequate pulmonary function data were available for a subset of 1874. Herein we studied indoor environmental health risk factors for allergy and asthma. Several indoor environmental risk factors were associated with allergy and asthma. In particular, we found that ant and spider pest problems, pet dogs, fireplace heat, central air conditioning, humidifier use, and cooking with gas stoves were positively associated with both allergy and asthma prevalence. With regards to asthma severity, our analysis indicated that exposure to pet dogs increased monotonically with increasing asthma severity while the lack of any heat source and gas stove use for cooking decreased monotonically with increasing asthma severity. Lung function also decreased among children who lived in homes with reported cockroach pest problem in the past year without concurrent use of pesticides. These effects on pulmonary function were present even after excluding children with a current physician's diagnosis of asthma. Clinicians and public health professionals may need to look closely at the contribution of these indoor risk factors on pulmonary health and quality of life among susceptible populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik R Svendsen
- Medical University of South Carolina, Department of Public Health Sciences, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Melissa Gonzales
- University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Adwoa Commodore
- Medical University of South Carolina, Department of Public Health Sciences, Charleston, SC, USA
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17
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Bukalasa JS, Brunekreef B, Brouwer M, Vermeulen R, de Jongste JC, van Rossem L, Vonk JM, Wijga A, Huss A, Gehring U. Proximity to agricultural fields as proxy for environmental exposure to pesticides among children: The PIAMA birth cohort. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 595:515-520. [PMID: 28395266 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.03.269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Agricultural pesticides are frequently used for crop protection. Residents living in close proximity to treated fields may be exposed to these pesticides. There is some indication that children living near agricultural fields have an increased risk of developing asthma and decreased lung function. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to assess the proximity of participants' homes to fields likely treated with pesticides as proxy for environmental exposure to agricultural pesticides among participants of a Dutch birth cohort study, and to combine acreage of fields with farmer-reported pesticide use. METHODS Potential pesticide exposure at the home address at the time of the 14-year follow-up was estimated for 2291 participants of the Dutch PIAMA birth cohort study. We used spatial data on the presence of crops during the year 2012 to calculate the surface area of specific crops relevant for pesticide use in The Netherlands cultivated within 50, 100, 500 and 1000m of the study homes. Farmer-reported pesticides use on specific crops from a national survey performed in 2012 was used to estimate the amount of all pesticides and pesticides with known irritant properties for the respiratory system applied within the aforementioned distances of the study homes. RESULTS For 3%, 7%, 40%, and 65% of the homes, any relevant crops were present within 50, 100, 500 and 1000m, respectively. Among these, the most frequent crops were corn, cereals, and potatoes. For almost the same percentages of homes, it was estimated that pesticides with known irritant properties for the respiratory system were potentially applied within these distances. CONCLUSIONS We observed that a small proportion of the study participants lived in close proximity (<50 or <100m) to agricultural fields with crops relevant for pesticide use in The Netherlands. The percentage of study homes within 500 or 1000m of agricultural fields with these crops was much larger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph S Bukalasa
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Bert Brunekreef
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.
| | - Maartje Brouwer
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Roel Vermeulen
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.
| | - Johan C de Jongste
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Respiratory Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center/Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Lenie van Rossem
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands.
| | - Judith M Vonk
- Department of Epidemiology, Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Alet Wijga
- Center for Nutrition, Prevention and Health Services, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Anke Huss
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Ulrike Gehring
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Walsh JJ, Lenes JM, Weisberg RH, Zheng L, Hu C, Fanning KA, Snyder R, Smith J. More surprises in the global greenhouse: Human health impacts from recent toxic marine aerosol formations, due to centennial alterations of world-wide coastal food webs. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 116:9-40. [PMID: 28111002 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.12.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Revised: 12/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Reductions of zooplankton biomasses and grazing pressures were observed during overfishing-induced trophic cascades and concurrent oil spills at global scales. Recent phytoplankton increments followed, once Fe-, P-, and N-nutrient limitations of commensal diazotrophs and dinoflagellates were also eliminated by respective human desertification, deforestation, and eutrophication during climate changes. Si-limitation of diatoms instead ensued during these last anthropogenic perturbations of agricultural effluents and sewage loadings. Consequently, ~15% of total world-wide annual asthma trigger responses, i.e. amounting to ~45 million adjacent humans during 2004, resulted from brevetoxin and palytoxin poisons in aerosol forms of western boundary current origins. They were denoted by greater global harmful algal bloom [HAB] abundances and breathing attacks among sea-side children during prior decadal surveys of asthma prevalence, compiled here in ten paired shelf ecosystems of western and eutrophied boundary currents. Since 1965, such inferred onshore fluxes of aerosolized DOC poisons of HABs may have served as additional wind-borne organic carriers of toxic marine MeHg, phthalate, and DDT/DDE vectors, traced by radio-iodine isotopes to potentially elicit carcinomas. During these exchanges, as much as 40% of mercury poisonings may instead have been effected by inhalation of collateral HAB-carried marine neurotoxic aerosols of MeHg, not just from eating marine fish. Health impacts in some areas were additional asthma and pneumonia episodes, as well as endocrine disruptions among the same adjacent humans, with known large local rates of thyroid cancers, physician-diagnosed pulmonary problems, and ubiquitous high indices of mercury in hair, pesticides in breast milk, and phthalates in urine.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J Walsh
- College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, St. Petersberg, FL 33701, United States.
| | - J M Lenes
- College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, St. Petersberg, FL 33701, United States
| | - R H Weisberg
- College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, St. Petersberg, FL 33701, United States
| | - L Zheng
- College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, St. Petersberg, FL 33701, United States
| | - C Hu
- College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, St. Petersberg, FL 33701, United States
| | - K A Fanning
- College of Marine Science, University of South Florida, St. Petersberg, FL 33701, United States
| | - R Snyder
- Virginia Institute of Marine Science Eastern Shore Laboratory, Wachapreague, VA 23480, United States
| | - J Smith
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States
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Pesticides: an update of human exposure and toxicity. Arch Toxicol 2016; 91:549-599. [PMID: 27722929 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-016-1849-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 372] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pesticides are a family of compounds which have brought many benefits to mankind in the agricultural, industrial, and health areas, but their toxicities in both humans and animals have always been a concern. Regardless of acute poisonings which are common for some classes of pesticides like organophosphoruses, the association of chronic and sub-lethal exposure to pesticides with a prevalence of some persistent diseases is going to be a phenomenon to which global attention has been attracted. In this review, incidence of various malignant, neurodegenerative, respiratory, reproductive, developmental, and metabolic diseases in relation to different routes of human exposure to pesticides such as occupational, environmental, residential, parental, maternal, and paternal has been systematically criticized in different categories of pesticide toxicities like carcinogenicity, neurotoxicity, pulmonotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, developmental toxicity, and metabolic toxicity. A huge body of evidence exists on the possible role of pesticide exposures in the elevated incidence of human diseases such as cancers, Alzheimer, Parkinson, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, asthma, bronchitis, infertility, birth defects, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, diabetes, and obesity. Most of the disorders are induced by insecticides and herbicides most notably organophosphorus, organochlorines, phenoxyacetic acids, and triazine compounds.
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Quansah R, Bend JR, Abdul-Rahaman A, Armah FA, Luginaah I, Essumang DK, Iddi S, Chevrier J, Cobbina SJ, Nketiah-Amponsah E, Adu-Kumi S, Darko G, Afful S. Associations between pesticide use and respiratory symptoms: A cross-sectional study in Southern Ghana. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2016; 150:245-254. [PMID: 27318967 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2016.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indiscriminate use of pesticides is a common practice amongst farmers in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMIC) across the globe. However, there is little evidence defining whether pesticide use is associated with respiratory symptoms. OBJECTIVES This cross-sectional study was conducted with 300 vegetable farmers in southern Ghana (Akumadan). Data on pesticide use was collected with an interviewed-administered questionnaire. The concentration of seven organochlorine pesticides and 3 pyrethroid pesticides was assayed in urine collected from a sub-population of 100 vegetable farmers by a gas chromatograph equipped with an electron capture detector (GC-ECD). RESULTS A statistically significant exposure-response relationship of years per day spent mixing/applying fumigant with wheezing [30-60 days/year: prevalence ratio (PR)=1.80 (95% CI 1.30, 2.50); >60days/year: 3.25 (1.70-6.33), p for trend=0.003] and hours per day spent mixing/applying fumigant with wheezing [1-2h/day: 1.20 (1.02-1.41), 3-5h/day: 1.45 (1.05-1.99), >5h/day: 1.74 (1.07-2.81), p for trend=0.0225]; days per year spent mixing/applying fungicide with wheezing [30-60 days/year: 2.04 (1.31-3.17); >60days/year: 4.16 (1.72-10.08), p for trend=0.0017] and h per day spent mixing/applying fungicide with phlegm production [1-2h/day: 1.25 (1.05-1.47), 3-5h/day: 1.55 (1.11-2.17), >5h/day: 1.93 (1.17-3.19), p for trend=0.0028] and with wheezing [1-2h/day: 1.10 (1.00-1.50), 3-5h/day: 1.20 (1.11-1.72), >5h/day: 1.32 (1.09-2.53), p for trend=0.0088]; h per day spent mixing/applying insecticide with phlegm production [1-2h/day: 1.23 (1.09-1.62), 3-5h/day: 1.51 (1.20-2.58), >5h/day: 1.85 (1.31-4.15), p for trend=0.0387] and wheezing [1-2h/day: 1.22 (1.02-1.46), 3-5h/day: 1.49 (1.04-2.12), >5h/day: 1.81 (1.07-3.08), p for trend=0.0185] were observed. Statistically significant exposure-response association was also observed for a combination of activities that exposes farmers to pesticide with all 3 respiratory symptoms. Furthermore, significant exposure-response associations for 3 organochlorine insecticides: beta-HCH, heptachlor and endosulfan sulfate were noted. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, vegetable farmers in Ghana may be at increased risk for respiratory symptoms as a result of exposure to pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reginald Quansah
- Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana; Department of Immunology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - John R Bend
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Siebens-Drake Medical Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Abukari Abdul-Rahaman
- Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Frederick Ato Armah
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Biological Sciences, College of Agriculture & Natural Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Isaac Luginaah
- Department of Geography, Western University, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Kofi Essumang
- Environmental Health Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Samuel Iddi
- Department of Statistics, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Jonathan Chevrier
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Samuel Jerry Cobbina
- Department of Ecotourism and Environmental Management, Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources, University for Development Studies, Nyankpala, Ghana
| | | | - Samuel Adu-Kumi
- Chemicals Control and Management Centre, Environmental Protection Agency, Accra, Ghana
| | - Godfred Darko
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Samuel Afful
- Nuclear Chemistry and Environmental Research Centre, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Accra, Ghana
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21
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Mamane A, Raherison C, Tessier JF, Baldi I, Bouvier G. Environmental exposure to pesticides and respiratory health. Eur Respir Rev 2016; 24:462-73. [PMID: 26324808 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.00006114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory effects of environmental exposure to pesticides are debated. Here we aimed to review epidemiological studies published up until 2013, using the PubMed database. 20 studies dealing with respiratory health and non-occupational pesticide exposure were identified, 14 carried out on children and six on adults. In four out of nine studies in children with biological measurements, mothers' dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) blood levels during pregnancy were associated with asthma and wheezing in young children. An association was also found between permethrin in indoor air during pregnancy and wheezing in children. A significant association between asthma and DDE measured in children's blood (aged 7-10 years) was observed in one study. However, in three studies, no association was found between asthma or respiratory infections in children and pesticide levels in breast milk and/or infant blood. Lastly, in three out of four studies where post-natal pesticide exposure of children was assessed by parental questionnaire an association with respiratory symptoms was found. Results of the fewer studies on pesticide environmental exposure and respiratory health of adults were much less conclusive: indeed, the associations observed were weak and often not significant. In conclusion, further studies are needed to confirm whether there is a respiratory risk associated with environmental exposure to pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Mamane
- ISPED - Laboratoire Santé Travail Environnement, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France ISPED - Centre INSERM U897-Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France
| | - Chantal Raherison
- ISPED - Laboratoire Santé Travail Environnement, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France ISPED - Centre INSERM U897-Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France Service des Maladies Respiratoire, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Isabelle Baldi
- ISPED - Laboratoire Santé Travail Environnement, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France ISPED - Centre INSERM U897-Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France Service de Médecine du Travail, CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Ghislaine Bouvier
- ISPED - Laboratoire Santé Travail Environnement, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France ISPED - Centre INSERM U897-Epidémiologie-Biostatistique, Bordeaux, France
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22
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Raanan R, Balmes JR, Harley KG, Gunier RB, Magzamen S, Bradman A, Eskenazi B. Decreased lung function in 7-year-old children with early-life organophosphate exposure. Thorax 2015; 71:148-53. [PMID: 26634937 DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2014-206622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Organophosphate pesticides are heavily used in agriculture, and adverse associations with respiratory health in occupational settings have been reported. However, most of the evidence comes from studies where there were no biomarkers of exposure and no objective outcome measurement. Non-occupational chronic effects among residents living in agricultural communities are less well described. OBJECTIVE To evaluate associations between early-life organophosphate exposure and lung function of children living in an agricultural community. METHODS Participants were 279 children from the Center for the Health Assessment of Mothers and Children of Salinas (CHAMACOS) longitudinal birth cohort. The area under the curve for organophosphate exposure was determined by urinary diethyl and dimethyl dialkylphosphate metabolites of organophosphate pesticides, which were measured five times during childhood (6-60 months). Spirometry was performed at age 7 years. Regression models controlled for maternal smoking during pregnancy, season of birth, particulate matter concentrations with aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5), breast feeding duration, mould and pets at home, distance of home from a highway, food insecurity, maternal education, season of spirometry, sex, height and technician. RESULTS Childhood diethyl, dimethyl and total dialkylphosphate concentrations were associated with significant decreases in lung function at age 7. Specifically, we found lower FEV1, (L/s) (ß=-0.16, 95% CI -0.30 to -0.02, p=0.03) and FVC (L) (ß=-0.17, 95% CI -0.34 to 0.01, p=0.06) per 10-fold increase of total dialkylphosphate levels. CONCLUSIONS Early-life organophosphate exposure as assessed by dialkylphosphate concentrations was adversely associated with 7-year-old children's lung function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Raanan
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - John R Balmes
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA Divison of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Kim G Harley
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Robert B Gunier
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Sheryl Magzamen
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Asa Bradman
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Brenda Eskenazi
- Center for Environmental Research and Children's Health (CERCH), School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
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Kearney GD, Chatterjee AB, Talton J, Chen H, Quandt SA, Summers P, Arcury TA. The association of respiratory symptoms and indoor housing conditions among migrant farmworkers in eastern North Carolina. J Agromedicine 2015; 19:395-405. [PMID: 25275405 DOI: 10.1080/1059924x.2014.947458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Farm labor housing has been described as among the worst in the nation, oftentimes with poor and unsanitary indoor living conditions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between indoor environmental risk factors and respiratory health among migrant farmworker occupants (N = 352) living in employer-provided housing. A cross-sectional sample of adult Latino male farm laborers were administered a questionnaire to identify the prevalence of major respiratory symptoms. Self-reported and independent observations were made to evaluate environmental respiratory risk factors and indoor housing conditions, including but not limited to, the presence of cockroaches, rodents, pesticides, and visible signs of mold. Spirometry was performed to evaluate lung function using FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in 1 second), FVC (forced vital capacity), and FEV1 /FVC ratio. Bivariate analysis was applied to evaluate associations between respiratory symptoms and selected indoor environmental risk factors. Findings for respiratory health included prevalence of wheeze (11.4%), coughing up phlegm (17.3%), tightness of chest (16.8%), and runny or stuffy nose (34.4%). Respiratory risks identified inside the dwellings included the use of pesticides or bug sprays for cockroaches (31.5%), rat or mouse poison (19.5%), visible signs of water damage in the bathroom (22.5%), and mold in the sleeping room (11.1%). Spirometry values were normal for most occupants, although statistically significant associations were found between mold and coughing up phlegm when not having a cold (P = .0262); presence of mold and asthma (P = .0084); pesticides used in the home and tightness of chest (P = .0001); and use of tobacco and coughing up phlegm (P = .0131). Although causal inference can be difficult to establish from a cross-sectional study, findings from this study represents suggestive evidence that indoor environmental risk factors may be contributory factors for respiratory health problems among this vulnerable workgroup population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory D Kearney
- a Department of Public Health, Brody School of Medicine , East Carolina University , Greenville , North Carolina , USA
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Chlorpyrifos exposure and respiratory health among adolescent agricultural workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2014; 11:13117-29. [PMID: 25522051 PMCID: PMC4276666 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph111213117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Revised: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is a commonly used organophosphate insecticide (OP). In adults, exposure to OPs has been inconsistently associated with reduced lung function. OP exposure and lung function has not been assessed in adolescents. The objective of this study was to assess CPF exposure and lung function among Egyptian adolescents. We conducted a 10-month study of male adolescent pesticide applicators (n = 38) and non-applicators of similar age (n = 24). Urinary 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (TPCy), a CPF-specific metabolite, was analyzed in specimens collected throughout the study. Spirometry was performed twice after pesticide application: day 146, when TCPy levels were elevated and day 269, when TCPy levels were near baseline. Applicators had higher levels of TCPy (mean cumulative TCPy day 146 = 33,217.6; standard deviation (SD) = 49,179.3) than non-applicators (mean cumulative TCPy day 146 = 3290.8; SD = 3994.9). Compared with non-applicators, applicators had higher odds of reporting wheeze, odds ratio = 3.41 (95% CI: 0.70; 17.41). Cumulative urinary TCPy was inversely associated with spirometric measurements at day 146, but not at day 269. Although generally non-significant, results were consistent with an inverse association between exposure to CPF and lung function.
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25
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Amaral AFS. Pesticides and asthma: challenges for epidemiology. Front Public Health 2014; 2:6. [PMID: 24479117 PMCID: PMC3901073 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- André F. S. Amaral
- Respiratory Epidemiology, Occupational Medicine and Public Health, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- MRC-PHE Centre for Environment and Health, London, UK
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