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Vallée M. How Government Health Agencies Obscure the Impact of Environmental Pollution and Perpetuate Reductionist Framings of Disease: The Case of Leukemia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH AND HEALTH SERVICES 2024; 54:28-39. [PMID: 37099622 PMCID: PMC10797827 DOI: 10.1177/27551938231169119] [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: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Since the 1970s, environmental health researchers have documented environmental pollution's impacts on human health, which includes the bioaccumulation of industrial chemicals and how these toxicants contribute to disease. However, the relationship between disease and pollution is often difficult to discern in the disease information provided by dominant institutions. Previous scholarship has identified that print media, television news, online medical publishers, and medical associations consistently obscure the environmental causation frame. However, less has been said about disease information provided by public health agencies. To address this gap, I analyzed the leukemia information provided by Cancer Australia, the United States' National Institutes of Health, and the United Kingdom's National Health Service. My analysis shows that the disease information offered by these health agencies also obscures the environmental causation frame by failing to identify most toxicants that environmental health researchers have linked to leukemia and by emphasizing a biomedical framing of the medical condition. Beyond documenting the problem, this article also discusses the social consequences and sources of the problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Vallée
- Senior Lecturer, Department of Sociology and Criminology, The University of Auckland, 58 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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2
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Zhai L, Gao Y, Cui Z, Chen L, Yu L, Guo P, Zhu D, Tang H, Liu X, Luo H. MiR-7-5p targeted Rb regulating cell cycle is involved in hydroquinone-induced malignant progression in human lymphoblastoid TK6 cells. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 182:114186. [PMID: 37951342 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114186] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
MiR-7-5p has been demonstrated to inhibit tumorigenesis by limiting tumor cell proliferation, migration and invasion. However, its role in countering hydroquinone (HQ)-induced malignant phenotype of TK6 cells has remained unclear. The present study aimed to investigate whether miR-7-5p overexpression could restrain the malignant phenotype in TK6 cells exposed to HQ. The results displayed that HQ suppressed the expression of miR-7-5p and promoted cell cycle progression. Further investigations confirmed that miR-7-5p could decelerate the cell cycle progression by targeting Rb after acute HQ exposure. Through the regulation of the Rb/E2F1 signaling pathway, the overexpression of miR-7-5p mitigated HQ-induced malignant phenotype in TK6 cells by impeding cell cycle progression. In conclusion, miR-7-5p overexpression appears to be involved in HQ-induced malignant transformation by suppressing Rb/E2F1 signaling pathway, resulting in a deceleration of the cell cycle progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhai
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Yuting Gao
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Zheming Cui
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Lingxue Yu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Pu Guo
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Delong Zhu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Huanwen Tang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China; The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.
| | - Hao Luo
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.
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Kumari P, Soni D, Aggarwal SG, Singh K. Seasonal and diurnal measurement of ambient benzene at a high traffic inflation site in Delhi: Health risk assessment and its possible role in ozone formation pathways. Environ Anal Health Toxicol 2023; 38:e2023016-0. [PMID: 37853697 PMCID: PMC10613561 DOI: 10.5620/eaht.2023016] [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: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Benzene is the most toxic and hazardous pollutant among volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as it comes under group 1 carcinogens recognized by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). It also plays a significant role in forming secondary pollutants like ozone. The benzene concentration was measured using a charcoal sorbent tube by active sampling at a traffic junction and analysis was done using GC-FID. The maximum average concentration of benzene in ambient air was found to be 33 μg/m3. A diurnal study of benzene measurement shows higher benzene concentrations in the evening compared to the morning. Seasonal variation of benzene is found to be winter > spring > summer > autumn > monsoon and OFP was found to be 21, 19, 14, 13, and 10 respectively. Cancer (ILCR) and non-cancer (HQ) health risk assessment was done to determine the impact of ambient benzene on the residents of urban areas. The yearly average value of ILCR was found to be 2×10-6 ± 1×10-6 which ranges from acceptable value to three times the WHO acceptable value i.e 1×10-6. The correlation of ozone and its precursor, benzene with meteorological parameters is also evaluated. The correlation of benzene and ozone with solar radiation shows the influence of photochemical reactions on the levels of benzene and ozone at the study site, although it is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poonam Kumari
- CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Daya Soni
- CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Shankar G. Aggarwal
- CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Khem Singh
- CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K.S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi, India
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McLoone P, Dyussupov O, Nurtlessov Z, Kenessariyev U, Kenessary D. The effect of exposure to crude oil on the immune system. Health implications for people living near oil exploration activities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2021; 31:762-787. [PMID: 31709802 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2019.1689232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
People who reside near oil exploration activities may be exposed to toxins from gas flares or oil spills. The impact of such exposures on the human immune system has not been fully investigated. In this review, research investigating the effects of crude oil on the immune system is evaluated. The aim was to obtain a greater understanding of the possible immunological impact of living near oil exploration activities. In animals, the effect of exposure to crude oil on the immune system depends on the species, dose, exposure route, and type of oil. Important observations included; hematological changes resulting in anemia and alterations in white blood cell numbers, lymph node and splenic atrophy, genotoxicity in immune cells, modulation of cytokine gene expression and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases. In humans, there are reports that exposure to crude oil can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer and cause immunomodulation.Abbreviations: A1AT: alpha-1 antitrypsin; ACH50: hemolytic activity of the alternative pathway; AHR: aryl hydrocarbon receptor; BALF: bronchoalveolar lavage fluid; COPD: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; CYP: cytochrome P450; DNFB: 2, 4-dinitro-1-fluorobenzene; G-CSF: granulocyte-colony stimulating factor; IFN: interferon; IL: interleukin; 8-IP: 8-isoprostane; ISG15: interferon stimulated gene; LPO: lipid peroxidation; LTB4: leukotriene B4; M-CSF: macrophage-colony stimulating factor; MMC: melanomacrophage center; MPV: mean platelet volume; NK: natural killer; OSPM: oil sail particulate matter; PAH: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon; PBMC: peripheral blood mononuclear cell; PCV: packed cell volume; RBC: red blood cell; ROS: reactive oxygen species; RR: relative risk; TH: T helper; TNF: tumour necrosis factor; UV: ultraviolet; VNNV: Viral Nervous Necrosis Virus; WBC: white blood cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline McLoone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Nazarbayev University School of Medicine, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Olzhas Dyussupov
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Nazarbayev University School of Medicine, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Zhaxybek Nurtlessov
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Nazarbayev University School of Medicine, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Ussen Kenessariyev
- Department of General Hygiene and Ecology, Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
| | - Dinara Kenessary
- Department of General Hygiene and Ecology, Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
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Allahverdi N, Yassin M, Ibrahim M. Environmental Factors, Lifestyle Risk Factors, and Host Characteristics Associated With Philadelphia Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasm: A Systematic Review. Cancer Control 2021; 28:10732748211046802. [PMID: 34645293 PMCID: PMC8521755 DOI: 10.1177/10732748211046802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders characterized by the overproduction of mature myeloid cells and are often associated with an acquired genetic mutation of Janus Kinase2V617F. Various epidemiological studies have indicated associations between environmental factors, lifestyle factors, and host characteristics with developing MPNs. This review aims to collect and summarize the existing information on these risk factors and establish their association with pathogenesis MPNs. Medline, Embase, PubMed, and grey literature were systematically searched using key terms for MPNs, and epidemiological study designs, that is, cross-sectional studies, case-control, and cohort, that investigated the risk factors for MPNs published were identified. Out of the 4621 articles identified, 20 met the selection criteria and were included in this review. Heterogeneity, study reliability, and bias were assessed. A significant association was found between smoking and the development of MPNs. This relationship has been explained by the substantial increase in several proinflammatory mediators and systematic oxidative stress causing hyperstimulation of myeloid compartments leading to the development of MPNs. Obesity was modestly linked with an increased risk of MPNs. The underlying mechanisms have been linked to changes in endocrine, metabolic, and inflammatory systems. No strong association was found between exposure to hazardous substances, that is, benzene and MPNs, but further investigation on the effects of increased levels and duration of exposure on hematopoietic stem cells will be beneficial. Unique individual and host variations have been determined as a modifier of disease pathogenesis and phenotype variations. There is a higher incidence rate of females developing MPNs, specifically ET, than males with higher PV incidence. Therefore, gender contributes to the heterogeneity in myeloproliferative neoplasm. Studies identified as part of this review are very diverse. Thus, further in-depth assessment to explore the role of these etiological factors associated with MPNs is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloofar Allahverdi
- Research Specialist, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, 36977Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamed Yassin
- Hematology Consultant, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, 36977Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamed Ibrahim
- Professor of Social & Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, 61780Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Zhai L, Liang H, Du J, Sun M, Qiu W, Tang H, Luo H. PARP-1 via regulation of p53 and p16, is involved in the hydroquinone-induced malignant transformation of TK6 cells by decelerating the cell cycle. Toxicol In Vitro 2021; 74:105153. [PMID: 33771647 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2021.105153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase-1 (PARP-1) plays a crucial role in DNA damage repair and could be viewed as both a tumor promoter and tumor-suppressor gene. However, the effects of PARP-1 in hydroquinone-induced malignant transformation of TK6 cells remain to be further elucidated. The present research evaluated the potential mechanism of PARP-1 in hydroquinone-induced malignant transformation of TK6 cells. The results indicated that high PARP-1 inhibited TK6 cells malignant transformation after chronic exposure to HQ. We further confirmed that PARP-1 overexpression blocked cell proliferation, and decelerated cell cycle progression in vitro and in vivo. The immunoblotting analysis indicated that PARP-1 regulated cell cycle progression via p16/Rb and p53. Therefore, we conclude that PARP-1 is involved in HQ-induced malignant transformation associated with increasing p16/Rb and p53 which resulting in decelerating the cell cycle progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhai
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Hairong Liang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Jinlin Du
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Mingwei Sun
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Weifeng Qiu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Huanwen Tang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.
| | - Hao Luo
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.
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Onyije FM, Hosseini B, Togawa K, Schüz J, Olsson A. Cancer Incidence and Mortality among Petroleum Industry Workers and Residents Living in Oil Producing Communities: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4343. [PMID: 33923944 PMCID: PMC8073871 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Petroleum extraction and refining are major sources of various occupational exposures and of air pollution and may therefore contribute to the global cancer burden. This systematic review and meta-analysis is aimed at evaluating the cancer risk in petroleum-exposed workers and in residents living near petroleum facilities. Relevant studies were identified and retrieved through PubMed and Web of Science databases. Summary effect size (ES) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were analysed using random effect models, and heterogeneity across studies was assessed (I2). Overall, petroleum industry work was associated with an increased risk of mesothelioma (ES = 2.09, CI: 1.58-2.76), skin melanoma (ES = 1.34, CI: 1.06-1.70 multiple myeloma (ES =1.81, CI: 1.28-2.55), and cancers of the prostate (ES = 1.13, Cl: 1.05-1.22) and urinary bladder (ES = 1.25, CI: 1.09-1.43) and a decreased risk of cancers of the esophagus, stomach, colon, rectum, and pancreas. Offshore petroleum work was associated with an increased risk of lung cancer (ES = 1.20; 95% CI: 1.03-1.39) and leukemia (ES = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.12-1.92) in stratified analysis. Residential proximity to petroleum facilities was associated with childhood leukemia (ES = 1.90, CI: 1.34-2.70). Very few studies examined specific exposures among petroleum industry workers or residents living in oil producing communities. The present review warrants further studies on specific exposure levels and pathways among petroleum-exposed workers and residents living near petroleum facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix M. Onyije
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO), 150 Cours Albert Thomas, CEDEX 08, 69372 Lyon, France; (B.H.); (K.T.); (J.S.); (A.O.)
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Virji MA, Kurth L. Peak Inhalation Exposure Metrics Used in Occupational Epidemiologic and Exposure Studies. Front Public Health 2021; 8:611693. [PMID: 33490023 PMCID: PMC7820770 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.611693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Peak exposures are of concern because they can potentially overwhelm normal defense mechanisms and induce adverse health effects. Metrics of peak exposure have been used in epidemiologic and exposure studies, but consensus is lacking on its definition. The relevant characteristics of peak exposure are dependent upon exposure patterns, biokinetics of exposure, and disease mechanisms. The objective of this review was to summarize the use of peak metrics in epidemiologic and exposure studies. A comprehensive search of Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and NIOSHTIC-2 databases was conducted using keywords related to peak exposures. The retrieved references were reviewed and selected for indexing if they included a peak metric and met additional criteria. Information on health outcomes and peak exposure metrics was extracted from each reference. A total of 1,215 epidemiologic or exposure references were identified, of which 182 were indexed and summarized. For the 72 epidemiologic studies, the health outcomes most frequently evaluated were: chronic respiratory effects, cancer and acute respiratory symptoms. Exposures were frequently assessed using task-based and full-shift time-integrated methods, qualitative methods, and real-time instruments. Peak exposure summary metrics included the presence or absence of a peak event, highest exposure intensity and frequency greater than a target. Peak metrics in the 110 exposure studies most frequently included highest exposure intensity, average short-duration intensity, and graphical presentation of the real-time data (plots). This review provides a framework for considering biologically relevant peak exposure metrics for epidemiologic and exposure studies to help inform risk assessment and exposure mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Abbas Virji
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Laura Kurth
- Respiratory Health Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, United States
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A clandestine culprit with critical consequences: Benzene and acute myeloid leukemia. Blood Rev 2020; 47:100736. [PMID: 32771228 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2020.100736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
While most clinicians recognize adult therapy-related leukemias following cytotoxic chemotherapy and radiation, environmental regulatory agencies evaluate exposure to "safe levels" of leukemogenic compounds. Benzene represents the most notorious leukemogenic chemical. Used in the production of ubiquitous items such as plastics, lubricants, rubbers, dyes, and pesticides, benzene may be responsible for the higher risk of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) among automobile, janitorial, construction, and agricultural workers. It is possible that ambient benzene may contribute to many cases of "de novo" AML not arising out of germline predispositions. In this appraisal of the available literature, we evaluate and discuss the association between chronic, low-dose and ambient exposure to environmental benzene and the development of adult AML.
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Linet MS, Gilbert ES, Vermeulen R, Dores GM, Yin SN, Portengen L, Hayes RB, Ji BT, Lan Q, Li GL, Rothman N. Benzene Exposure Response and Risk of Myeloid Neoplasms in Chinese Workers: A Multicenter Case-Cohort Study. J Natl Cancer Inst 2020; 111:465-474. [PMID: 30520970 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djy143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is international consensus that benzene exposure is causally related to acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and more recent evidence of association with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). However, there are uncertainties about the exposure response, particularly risks by time since exposure and age at exposure. METHODS In a case-cohort study in 110 631 Chinese workers followed up during 1972-1999 we evaluated combined MDS/AML (n = 44) and chronic myeloid leukemia (n = 18). We estimated benzene exposures using hierarchical modeling of occupational factors calibrated with historical routine measurements, and evaluated exposure response for cumulative exposure and average intensity using Cox regression; P values were two-sided. RESULTS Increased MDS/AML risk with increasing cumulative exposure in our a priori defined time window (2 to <10 years) before the time at risk was suggested (Ptrend = 08). For first exposure (within the 2 to <10-year window) before age 30 years, the exposure response was stronger (P = .004) with rate ratios of 1.12 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.27 to 4.29), 5.58 (95% CI = 1.65 to 19.68), and 4.50 (95% CI = 1.22 to 16.68) for cumulative exposures of more than 0 to less than 40, 40 to less than 100, and at least 100 ppm-years, respectively, compared with no exposure. There was little evidence of exposure response after at least 10 years (Ptrend = .94), regardless of age at first exposure. Average intensity results were generally similar. The risk for chronic myeloid leukemia was increased in exposed vs unexposed workers, but appeared to increase and then decrease with increasing exposure. CONCLUSION For myeloid neoplasms, the strongest effects were apparent for MDS/AML arising within 10 years of benzene exposure and for first exposure in the 2 to less than 10-year window before age 30 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha S Linet
- Radiation Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD
| | - Ethel S Gilbert
- Radiation Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD
| | - Roel Vermeulen
- Division of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Graça M Dores
- Radiation Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD
| | - Song-Nian Yin
- National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, Peoples Republic of China
| | - Lutzen Portengen
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Richard B Hayes
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Bu-Tian Ji
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD
| | - Qing Lan
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD
| | - Gui-Lan Li
- National Institute of Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, Peoples Republic of China
| | - Nathaniel Rothman
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD
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Checkoway H, Lees PSJ, Dell LD, Gentry PR, Mundt KA. Peak Exposures in Epidemiologic Studies and Cancer Risks: Considerations for Regulatory Risk Assessment. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2019; 39:1441-1464. [PMID: 30925210 PMCID: PMC6850123 DOI: 10.1111/risa.13294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
We review approaches for characterizing "peak" exposures in epidemiologic studies and methods for incorporating peak exposure metrics in dose-response assessments that contribute to risk assessment. The focus was on potential etiologic relations between environmental chemical exposures and cancer risks. We searched the epidemiologic literature on environmental chemicals classified as carcinogens in which cancer risks were described in relation to "peak" exposures. These articles were evaluated to identify some of the challenges associated with defining and describing cancer risks in relation to peak exposures. We found that definitions of peak exposure varied considerably across studies. Of nine chemical agents included in our review of peak exposure, six had epidemiologic data used by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) in dose-response assessments to derive inhalation unit risk values. These were benzene, formaldehyde, styrene, trichloroethylene, acrylonitrile, and ethylene oxide. All derived unit risks relied on cumulative exposure for dose-response estimation and none, to our knowledge, considered peak exposure metrics. This is not surprising, given the historical linear no-threshold default model (generally based on cumulative exposure) used in regulatory risk assessments. With newly proposed US EPA rule language, fuller consideration of alternative exposure and dose-response metrics will be supported. "Peak" exposure has not been consistently defined and rarely has been evaluated in epidemiologic studies of cancer risks. We recommend developing uniform definitions of "peak" exposure to facilitate fuller evaluation of dose response for environmental chemicals and cancer risks, especially where mechanistic understanding indicates that the dose response is unlikely linear and that short-term high-intensity exposures increase risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvey Checkoway
- Department of Family Medicine & Public HealthSan Diego School of Medicine, University of CaliforniaLa JollaCAUSA
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12
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Gross SA, Paustenbach DJ. Shanghai Health Study (2001-2009): What was learned about benzene health effects? Crit Rev Toxicol 2017; 48:217-251. [PMID: 29243948 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2017.1401581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The Shanghai Health Study (SHS) was a large epidemiology study conducted as a joint effort between the University of Colorado and Fudan University in Shanghai, China. The study was funded by members of the American Petroleum Institute between 2001 and 2009 and was designed to evaluate the human health effects associated with benzene exposure. Two arms of the SHS included: an occupational-based molecular epidemiology study and several hospital-based case control studies. Consistent with historical literature, following sufficient exposure to relatively high airborne concentrations and years of exposure, the SHS concluded that exposure to benzene resulted in an increased risk of various blood and bone marrow abnormalities such as benzene poisoning, aplastic anemia (AA), myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) was not significantly increased for the exposures examined in this study. Perhaps the most important contribution of the SHS was furthering our understanding of the mechanism of benzene-induced bone marrow toxicity and the importance of identifying the proper subset of MDS relevant to benzene. Investigators found that benzene-exposed workers exhibited bone marrow morphology consistent with an immune-mediated inflammatory response. Contrary to historic reports, no consistent pattern of cytogenetic abnormalities was identified in these workers. Taken together, findings from SHS provided evidence that the mechanism for benzene-induced bone marrow damage was not initiated by chromosome abnormalities. Instead, chronic inflammation, followed by an immune-mediated response, is likely to play a more significant role in benzene-induced disease initiation and progression than previously thought.
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Mendes M, Machado JMH, Durand A, Costa-Amaral IC, Valente D, Gonçalves ES, Arcuri ASA, Trevisan EA, Sarcinelli PDN, Larentis AL, Moura-Correa MJ, André LC. Normas ocupacionais do benzeno: uma abordagem sobre o risco e exposição nos postos de revenda de combustíveis. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE SAÚDE OCUPACIONAL 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/2317-6369000127515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Introdução: trabalhadores estão sujeitos a riscos decorrentes da exposição ambiental e ocupacional ao benzeno, situação ainda mais crítica quando associada a fatores como desigualdade social, múltipla exposição, suscetibilidade individual, degradação ambiental e às possíveis interações entre os contaminantes ambientais. Além disso, nem sempre as regulamentações são estabelecidas e/ou atualizadas apenas a partir de achados científicos, pois são processos permeados por conflitos de interesses. Objetivo: realizar análise crítica sobre a identificação de risco e avaliação da exposição ao benzeno. Métodos: revisão bibliográfica e documental do marco normativo brasileiro e internacional sobre exposição ao benzeno, com relação aos aspectos toxicológicos, de exposição ocupacional e ambiental e de avaliação de risco. Discussão: o controle da exposição ao benzeno permeia o campo da disputa técnico-política de saúde e segurança, constituindo-se em marco regulatório resultante de consenso de entendimentos. Esses entendimentos são marcados pela disputa entre a proteção à saúde e a gestão empresarial das condições de trabalho, em detrimento das evidencias científicas. Em tal contexto, os Limites de Exposição Ocupacional podem variar significativamente entre os países e agências, apesar do reconhecimento universal de que não há limites seguros para exposição ao benzeno, por ser um composto carcinogênico.
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Oxidative Stress and Genotoxicity of Long-Term Occupational Exposure to Low Levels of BTEX in Gas Station Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13121212. [PMID: 27929445 PMCID: PMC5201353 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13121212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Revised: 11/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Atmospheric benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) can lead to multiple health injuries. However, what remains uncertain is the effect of long-term exposure to low levels of BTEX. Thus, we determined the BTEX levels in the air from the refueling and office areas in gas stations. Then we collected workers’ (200 refueling vs. 52 office workers) peripheral blood samples to analyze the serum total-superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels. DNA damage was analyzed by the comet assay and micronucleus test in buccal epithelial cells. We found that the levels of BTEX in refueling areas were significantly higher than those in office areas (p < 0.001). The serum T-SOD and GSH of refueling workers were significantly lower than those in office workers (p < 0.001). By contrast, the serum MDA and 8-OHdG of refueling workers were significantly higher than those of office workers (p < 0.001, MDA; p = 0.025, 8-OHdG). Furthermore, tail and Olive tail moments in refueling workers were longer (p = 0.004, tail moment; p = 0.001, Olive tail moment), and the micronucleus rate was higher (p < 0.001) than those in office workers. Taken together, long-term exposure to low levels of BTEX may reduce the antioxidant ability and increase the risk of DNA damage in refueling workers of gas stations.
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Gudzenko N, Hatch M, Bazyka D, Dyagil I, Reiss RF, Brenner A, Chumak V, Babkina N, Zablotska LB, Mabuchi K. Non-radiation risk factors for leukemia: A case-control study among chornobyl cleanup workers in Ukraine. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 142:72-6. [PMID: 26117815 PMCID: PMC4609257 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Revised: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/13/2015] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupational and environmental exposure to chemicals such as benzene has been linked to increased risk of leukemia. Cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption have also been found to affect leukemia risk. Previous analyses in a large cohort of Chornobyl clean-up workers in Ukraine found significant radiation-related increased risk for all leukemia types. We investigated the potential for additional effects of occupational and lifestyle factors on leukemia risk in this radiation-exposed cohort. METHODS In a case-control study of chronic lymphocytic and other leukemias among Chornobyl cleanup workers, we collected data on a range of non-radiation exposures. We evaluated these and other potential risk factors in analyses adjusting for estimated bone marrow radiation dose. We calculated Odds Ratios and 95% Confidence Intervals in relation to lifestyle factors and occupational hazards. RESULTS After adjusting for radiation, we found no clear association of leukemia risk with smoking or alcohol but identified a two-fold elevated risk for non-CLL leukemia with occupational exposure to petroleum (OR=2.28; 95% Confidence Interval 1.13, 6.79). Risks were particularly high for myeloid leukemias. No associations with risk factors other than radiation were found for chronic lymphocytic leukemia. CONCLUSIONS These data - the first from a working population in Ukraine - add to evidence from several previous reports of excess leukemia morbidity in groups exposed environmentally or occupationally to petroleum or its products.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Gudzenko
- National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Kyiv, Ukraine.
| | - M Hatch
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - D Bazyka
- National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Kyiv, Ukraine.
| | - I Dyagil
- National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Kyiv, Ukraine.
| | - R F Reiss
- Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - A Brenner
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - V Chumak
- National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Kyiv, Ukraine.
| | - N Babkina
- National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Kyiv, Ukraine.
| | - L B Zablotska
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - K Mabuchi
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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Glass DC, Wood E, Del Monaco A, Sim MR. Cohort Profile: Health Watch-a 30-year prospective cohort study of Australian petroleum industry workers. Int J Epidemiol 2015; 45:700-6. [PMID: 26157111 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyv121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah C Glass
- Monash University, Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Elisa Wood
- Monash University, Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Anthony Del Monaco
- Monash University, Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Malcolm R Sim
- Monash University, Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Stenehjem JS, Kjærheim K, Bråtveit M, Samuelsen SO, Barone-Adesi F, Rothman N, Lan Q, Grimsrud TK. Benzene exposure and risk of lymphohaematopoietic cancers in 25 000 offshore oil industry workers. Br J Cancer 2015; 112:1603-12. [PMID: 25867262 PMCID: PMC4453669 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2015.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this work was to examine the risk of lymphohaematopoietic (LH) cancer according to benzene exposure among offshore workers. METHODS Cancer registry data were used to identify 112 cancer cases diagnosed during 1999-2011 in a cohort of 24 917 Norwegian men reporting offshore work between 1965 and 1999. Analyses were conducted according to a stratified case-cohort design with a reference subcohort of 1661 workers. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals, adjusted for other benzene exposure and smoking. RESULTS Most workers were exposed to benzene for <15 years. The upper range values of average intensity and cumulative exposure were estimated to 0.040 p.p.m. and 0.948 p.p.m.-years, respectively. Risks were consistently elevated among exposed workers for all LH cancers combined and for most subgroups, although case numbers were small and yielded imprecise risk estimates. There was evidence of dose-related risk patterns according to cumulative exposure for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), multiple myeloma (MM) (P trends 0.052 and 0.024, respectively), and suggestively so for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) according to average intensity (P trend 0.094). CONCLUSIONS Our results support an association between cumulative and intensity metrics of low-level benzene exposure and risk for AML, MM, and suggestively for CLL.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Stenehjem
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, P.O. Box 5313 Majorstuen, Oslo N-0304, Norway
| | - K Kjærheim
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, P.O. Box 5313 Majorstuen, Oslo N-0304, Norway
| | - M Bråtveit
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5020, Norway
| | - S O Samuelsen
- Department of Mathematics, University of Oslo, Oslo N-0316, Norway
| | - F Barone-Adesi
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara 28100, Italy
| | - N Rothman
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Q Lan
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - T K Grimsrud
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, P.O. Box 5313 Majorstuen, Oslo N-0304, Norway
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De Palma G, Manno M. Metabolic polymorphisms and biomarkers of effect in the biomonitoring of occupational exposure to low-levels of benzene: state of the art. Toxicol Lett 2014; 231:194-204. [PMID: 25447454 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2014.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Revised: 10/07/2014] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Current levels of occupational exposure to benzene, a genotoxic human carcinogen, in Western countries are reduced by two-three orders of magnitude (from ppm to ppb) as compared to the past. However, as benzene toxicity is strongly dependent on biotransformation and recent evidence underlines a higher efficiency of bio-activation pathways at lower levels of exposure, toxic effects at low doses could be higher than expected, particularly in susceptible individuals. Currently, biological monitoring can allow accurate exposure assessment, relying on sensitive and specific enough biomarkers of internal dose. The availability of similarly reliable biomarkers of early effect or susceptibility could greatly improve the risk assessment process to such an extent that risk could even be assessed at the individual level. As to susceptibility biomarkers, functional genetic polymorphisms of relevant biotransformation enzymes may modulate the risk of adverse effects (NQO1) and the levels of biomarkers of internal dose, in particular S-phenylmercapturic acid (GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTA1). Among biomarkers of early effect, genotoxicity indicators, although sensitive in some cases, are too aspecific for routine use in occupational health surveillance programmes. Currently only the periodical blood cell count seems suitable enough to be applied in the longitudinal monitoring of effects from benzene exposure. Novel biomarkers of early effect are expected from higher collaboration among toxicologists and clinicians, also using advanced "omics" techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- G De Palma
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, Section of Public Health and Human Sciences, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili 1, 25123 Brescia, Italy.
| | - M Manno
- Department of Public Health, Section of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, University of Napoli Federico II, Via S. Pansini, 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy
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