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The Role of Prevention in Reducing the Economic Impact of ME/CFS in Europe: A Report from the Socioeconomics Working Group of the European Network on ME/CFS (EUROMENE). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57040388. [PMID: 33923830 PMCID: PMC8073750 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57040388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This report addresses the extent to which there may be scope for preventive programmes for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), and, if so, what economic benefits may accrue from the implementation of such programmes. We consider the economic case for prevention programmes, whether there is scope for preventive programmes for ME/CFS, and what are the health and economic benefits to be derived from the implementation of such programmes. We conclude that there is little scope for primary prevention programmes, given that ME/CFS is attributable to a combination of host and environmental risk factors, with host factors appearing to be most prominent, and that there are few identified modifiable risk factors that could be the focus of such programmes. The exception is in the use of agricultural chemicals, particularly organophosphates, where there is scope for intervention, and where Europe-wide programmes of health education to encourage safe use would be beneficial. There is a need for more research on risk factors for ME/CFS to establish a basis for the development of primary prevention programmes, particularly in respect of occupational risk factors. Secondary prevention offers the greatest scope for intervention, to minimise diagnostic delays associated with prolonged illness, increased severity, and increased costs.
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Tsatsakis A, Petrakis D, Nikolouzakis TK, Docea AO, Calina D, Vinceti M, Goumenou M, Kostoff RN, Mamoulakis C, Aschner M, Hernández AF. COVID-19, an opportunity to reevaluate the correlation between long-term effects of anthropogenic pollutants on viral epidemic/pandemic events and prevalence. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 141:111418. [PMID: 32437891 PMCID: PMC7211730 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Occupational, residential, dietary and environmental exposures to mixtures of synthetic anthropogenic chemicals after World War II have a strong relationship with the increase of chronic diseases, health cost and environmental pollution. The link between environment and immunity is particularly intriguing as it is known that chemicals and drugs can cause immunotoxicity (e.g., allergies and autoimmune diseases). In this review, we emphasize the relationship between long-term exposure to xenobiotic mixtures and immune deficiency inherent to chronic diseases and epidemics/pandemics. We also address the immunotoxicologic risk of vulnerable groups, taking into account biochemical and biophysical properties of SARS-CoV-2 and its immunopathological implications. We particularly underline the common mechanisms by which xenobiotics and SARS-CoV-2 act at the cellular and molecular level. We discuss how long-term exposure to thousand chemicals in mixtures, mostly fossil fuel derivatives, exposure toparticle matters, metals, ultraviolet (UV)–B radiation, ionizing radiation and lifestyle contribute to immunodeficiency observed in the contemporary pandemic, such as COVID-19, and thus threaten global public health, human prosperity and achievements, and global economy. Finally, we propose metrics which are needed to address the diverse health effects of anthropogenic COVID-19 crisis at present and those required to prevent similar future pandemics. Developmental exposure to environmental factors can disrupt the immune system. Long-term low-dose exposure to chemical mixtures is linked to imunodeficiency Immunodeficiency contributes to chronic diseases and the current Covid-19 pandemics. Environmental chemicals and microorganisms share similar molecular pathomechanisms (AhR pathway). Understanding the underlying pathomechanisms helps to improve public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71409 Heraklion, Crete, Greece; Department of Analytical and Forensic Medical Toxicology, Sechenov University, 2-4 Bolshaya Pirogovskaya st., 119991 Moscow, Russia; Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA.
| | - Demetrious Petrakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71409 Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
| | | | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania.
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania.
| | - Marco Vinceti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, I-41125 Modena, Italy.
| | - Marina Goumenou
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71409 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Ronald N Kostoff
- School of Public Policy, Georgia Institute of Technology, Gainesville, VA, 20155, USA.
| | - Charalampos Mamoulakis
- Department of Urology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Analytical and Forensic Medical Toxicology, Sechenov University, 2-4 Bolshaya Pirogovskaya st., 119991 Moscow, Russia; Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY 10461, USA.
| | - Antonio F Hernández
- Department of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Granada School of Medicine, 180016 Granada, Spain.
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Rivas JL, Palencia T, Fernández G, García M. Association of T and NK Cell Phenotype With the Diagnosis of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). Front Immunol 2018; 9:1028. [PMID: 29867995 PMCID: PMC5954087 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a pathological condition characterized by incapacitating fatigue and a combination of neurologic, immunologic, and endocrine symptoms. At present its diagnosis is based exclusively on clinical criteria. Several studies have described altered immunologic profiles; therefore, we proposed to further examine the more significant differences, particularly T and NK cell subpopulations that could be conditioned by viral infections, to discern their utility in improving the diagnosis and characterization of the patients. The study included 76 patients that fulfilled the revised Canadian Consensus Criteria (CCC 2010) for ME/CFS and 73 healthy controls, matched for age and gender. Immunophenotyping of different T cell and natural killer cell subpopulations in peripheral blood was determined by flow cytometry. ME/CFS patients showed significantly lower values of T regulatory cells (CD4+CD25++(high)FOXP3+) and higher NKT-like cells (CD3+CD16+/-CD56+) than the healthy individuals. Regarding NK phenotypes, NKG2C was significantly lower and NKCD69 and NKCD56 bright were significantly higher in the patients group. A classification model was generated using the more relevant cell phenotype differences (NKG2C and T regulatory cells) that was able to classify the individuals as ME/CFS patients or healthy in a 70% of cases. The observed differences in some of the subpopulations of T and NK cells between patients and healthy controls could define a distinct immunological profile that can help in the diagnostic process of ME/CFS patients, contribute to the recognition of the disease and to the search of more specific treatments. However, more studies are needed to corroborate these findings and to contribute to establish a consensus in diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Guerau Fernández
- Bioinformatics Unit, Genetics and Molecular Medicine Service, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Milagros García
- ME/CFS Unit, ASSSEMBiomédics, Barcelona, Spain.,Immunology Department, Biomedical Diagnostic Center, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Park DJ, Kim SH, Nah SS, Lee JH, Kim SK, Lee YA, Hong SJ, Kim HS, Lee HS, Kim HA, Joung CI, Kim SH, Lee SS. Polymorphisms of theTRPV2andTRPV3genes associated with fibromyalgia in a Korean population. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2016; 55:1518-27. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kew180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
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Sensibilidad química múltiple: evaluación clínica de la gravedad y perfil psicopatológico. Med Clin (Barc) 2016; 146:108-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2015.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Marshall-Gradisnik SM, Smith P, Brenu EW, Nilius B, Ramos SB, Staines DR. Examination of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) Ion Channels in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Patients. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.4137/iii.s25147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Background The transient receptor potential (TRP) superfamily in humans comprises 27 cation channels with permeability to monovalent and divalent cations. These channels are widely expressed within humans on cells and tissues and have significant sensory and regulatory roles on most physiological functions. Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is an unexplained disorder with multiple physiological impairments. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to determine the role of TRPs in CFS. Methods The study comprised 115 CFS patients (age = 48.68 ± 1.06 years) and 90 nonfatigued controls (age = 46.48 ± 1.22 years). CFS patients were defined according to the 1994 Center for Disease Prevention and Control criteria for CFS. A total of 240 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for 21 mammalian TRP ion channel genes ( TRPA1, TRPC1, TRPC2, TRPC3, TRPC4, TRPC6, TRPC7, TRPM1, TRPM2, TRPM3, TRPM4, TRPM5, TRPM6, TRPM7, TRPM8, TRPV1, TRPV2, TRPV3, TRPV4, TRPV5, and TRPV6) were examined via the Agena Biosciences iPLEX Gold assay. Statistical analysis was performed using the PLINK analysis software. Results Thirteen SNPs were significantly associated with CFS patients compared with the controls. Nine of these SNPs were associated with TRPM3 (rs12682832; P < 0.003, rs11142508; P < 0.004, rs1160742; P < 0.08, rs4454352; P < 0.013, rs1328153; P < 0.013, rs3763619; P < 0.014, rs7865858; P ≤ 0.021, rs1504401; P ≤ 0041, rs10115622; P ≤ 0.050), while the remainder were associated with TRPA1 (rs2383844; P ≤ 0.040, rs4738202; P ≤ 0.018) and TRPC4 (rs6650469; P ≤ 0.016, rs655207; P ≤ 0.018). Conclusion The data from this pilot study suggest an association between TRP ion channels, predominantly TRPM3 and CFS. This and other TRPs identified may contribute to the etiology and pathomechanism of CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonya M. Marshall-Gradisnik
- School of Medical Science, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
- The National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Peter Smith
- The National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Ekua W. Brenu
- School of Medical Science, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
- The National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Bernd Nilius
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Ion Channel Research, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sandra B. Ramos
- School of Medical Science, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
- The National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Donald R. Staines
- The National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
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Outil de dépistage de l’intolérance environnementale idiopathique ou hypersensibilité chimique multiple. À propos de la traduction française du Quick Environmental Exposure Sensitivity Inventory (QEESI©). ARCH MAL PROF ENVIRO 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.admp.2010.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Nogué Xarau S, Dueñas Laita A, Ferrer Dufol A, Fernández Solà J. [Multiple chemical sensitivity]. Med Clin (Barc) 2010; 136:683-7. [PMID: 21367433 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2010.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2010] [Revised: 04/05/2010] [Accepted: 04/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Nogué Xarau
- Sección de Toxicología, Servicio de Urgencias, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, España.
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Nogué Xarau S, Alarcón Romay M, Martínez Martínez JM, Delclós Clanchet J, Rovira Prat E, Fernández Solà J. [Multiple chemical sensitivity: epidemiological, clinical and prognostic differences between occupational and non-occupational cases]. Med Clin (Barc) 2010; 135:52-8. [PMID: 20303541 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2009.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2009] [Revised: 11/30/2009] [Accepted: 12/01/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The progressive increase in cases of multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) syndrome and the lack of studies which associate the syndrome with possible occupational origins means that further research in this field is required. The objective of this study was to compare the epidemiological, clinical and prognostic aspects of cases of MCS of occupational and non-occupational origin. PATIENTS AND METHOD Observational study of patients diagnosed with MCS by the toxicology outpatients clinic of the Hospital Clinic of Barcelona between 2002 and 2007. The occupational and non-occupational origin of MCS was considered as an independent variable. The dependant variables were occupational activity, triggering agents of MCS, chemical agents associated with the development of clinical manifestations, severity of the symptoms, comorbidities and work disability. Percentages were compared between groups. RESULTS A total of 165 patients were included: The mean age was 47.7 years and 90.9% were women. There were significant differences between patients of occupational and non-occupational origin with respect to comorbidities such as chronic fatigue syndrome (68.1% versus 88.5%; p=0.002) and fibromyalgia (49.3% versus 73.9%; p=0.002), temporary disability (60.9% versus 39.6%; p=0.006) and permanent disability (8.7% versus 22.9%; p=0.006). CONCLUSIONS Cases of MCS attributed to an occupational origin had fewer comorbidities and less permanent disability than those of non-occupational origin.
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Nogué S, Fernández-Solá J, Rovira E, Montori E, Fernández-Huerta JM, Munné P. Sensibilidad química múltiple: análisis de 52 casos. Med Clin (Barc) 2007; 129:96-8; quiz 99. [PMID: 17594860 DOI: 10.1157/13107370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is characterized by a loss of tolerance to various environmental chemicals. The objective of this study was to describe patients with MCS seen in our hospital. PATIENTS AND METHOD Patients consecutively seen by the Toxicology and Chronic Fatigue Units who presented symptoms of MCS were included. The diagnosis was clinical. All patients completed the Quick Environmental Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory (QEESI) questionnaire. RESULTS Fifty-two patients were included. The average age (standard deviation) was 47.2 (7.6) years, and 46 (88%) were females. The origin of the syndrome was related to occupational exposure to various chemical agents in 31 cases (59.6%), including occupational accidents in 14 patients (fumigation of the workplace with insecticides). In 20 patients (38.5%), the syndrome could not be associated with any toxic exposure and was considered a manifestation of chronic fatigue syndrome. The QEESI showed mean scores of 72.9 (18.6) on the chemical inhalant intolerance scale, 45.5 (20.6) on the other intolerances scale, 69.8 (20.6) on the symptom severity scale, 4.4 (1.8) on the masking index and 66.6 (21.7) on the life impact scale. All patients were followed up for a minimum of 12 months, and during this period they remained stable with no deaths. CONCLUSIONS MCS normally affects middle-aged women. It is frequently triggered by exposure to chemical agents, especially insecticides. An association with chronic fatigue syndrome is common. The prognosis is good but the patients' quality of life is seriously affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Nogué
- Unidades de Toxicología y de Fatiga Crónica, Hospital Clínic, IDIBAPS, Universidad de Barcelona, Barcelona, España.
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Ortega Pérez A. Hipersensibilidad química múltiple: en búsqueda de la sistematización de su diagnóstico. Med Clin (Barc) 2007; 129:94-5. [PMID: 17594859 DOI: 10.1157/13107364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Arnold Llamosas PA, Arrizabalaga Clemente P, Bonet Agusti M, de la Fuente Brull X. Hipersensibilidad química múltiple en el síndrome del edificio enfermo. Med Clin (Barc) 2006; 126:774-8. [PMID: 16883665 DOI: 10.1157/13089106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The sick building syndrome includes irritation of the eyes and the respiratory tract neurotoxicity affectation and skin problems, which can occur in individuals under improperly ventilated buildings. Poor air quality, as shown in CO2 atmospheric levels of more than 1,000 ppm, results in a pathological exposure to biological and chemical products. We present a work-related case of multiple chemical hypersensitivity from a dialysis unit that had no air renewal. This person, who was summitted to continuous exposure despite having taken corrective measures in the ventilation, developed chronic fatigue syndrome. An acoustic voice observation alerted of the case which led to the analysis of the environmental conditions which confirmed the relationship between multiple chemical hypersensitivity and chronic fatigue syndrome. This case stresses the neglected fact that all health service centres pose a high risk of chemical exposure and that there exists a lack of rigoroursness in putting in practice scientific medical knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo A Arnold Llamosas
- Inmunología y Medicina Interna, Servicio de Reumatología, Centro Internacional Medicina Avanzada (CIMA), Servei Acreditat Cat Salut, Barcelona, Spain
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