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Son JY, Heo S, Byun G, Foo D, Song Y, Lewis BM, Stewart R, Choi HM, Bell ML. A systematic review of animal feeding operations including concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) for exposure, health outcomes, and environmental justice. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 259:119550. [PMID: 38964578 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite growing literature on animal feeding operations (AFOs) including concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), research on disproportionate exposure and associated health burden is relatively limited and shows inconclusive findings. OBJECTIVE We systematically reviewed previous literature on AFOs/CAFOs, focusing on exposure assessment, associated health outcomes, and variables related to environmental justice (EJ) and potentially vulnerable populations. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of databases (MEDLINE/PubMed and Web of Science) and performed citation screening. Screening of titles, abstracts, and full-text articles and data extraction were performed independently by pairs of reviewers. We summarized information for each study (i.e., study location, study period, study population, study type, study design, statistical methods, and adjusted variables (if health association was examined), and main findings), AFO/CAFO characteristics and exposure assessment (i.e., animal type, data source, measure of exposure, and exposure assessment), health outcomes or symptoms (if health association was examined), and information related to EJ and potentially vulnerable populations (in relation to exposure and/or health associations, vulnerable populations considered, related variables, and main findings in relation to EJ and vulnerable populations). RESULTS After initial screening of 10,963 papers, we identified 76 eligible studies. This review found that a relatively small number of studies (20 studies) investigated EJ and vulnerability issues related to AFOs/CAFOs exposure and/or associated health outcomes (e.g., respiratory diseases/symptoms, infections). We found differences in findings across studies, populations, the metrics used for AFO/CAFO exposure assessment, and variables related to EJ and vulnerability. The most commonly used metric for AFO/CAFO exposure assessment was presence of or proximity to facilities or animals. The most investigated variables related to disparities were race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status. CONCLUSION Findings from this review provide suggestive evidence that disparities exist with some subpopulations having higher exposure and/or health response in relation to AFO/CAFO exposure, although results varied across studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Young Son
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Seulkee Heo
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Garam Byun
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Damien Foo
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yimeng Song
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Brandon M Lewis
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rory Stewart
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Michelle L Bell
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; School of Health Policy and Management, College of Health Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Son JY, Bell ML. Disparities in exposure to concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) and risk of adverse birth outcomes in Pennsylvania, USA. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34985. [PMID: 39145018 PMCID: PMC11320432 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies have linked exposure to concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) with various health outcomes. However, relatively few studies evaluated the impacts of CAFOs on adverse birth outcomes, despite significant public health concerns regarding maternal and child health. Objectives This cross-sectional study investigated the risk of adverse birth outcomes associated with CAFOs exposure and evaluated disparities in exposure to CAFOs and associated health outcomes. Methods We obtained individual-level birth records from 2003 to 2020 from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. We considered two adverse birth outcomes: (1) preterm birth (PTB); and (2) low birth weight (LBW). Exposure was considered as a binary indicator (presence or absence of CAFO) and as categories based on level of exposure. Logistic regression was applied to estimate the association between CAFOs exposure and adverse birth outcomes. Models were adjusted for infant's sex, maternal demographics (age, race/ethnicity, education), prenatal BMI, prenatal care, smoking status, marital status, plurality, WIC status, and urban/rural indicator. We examined both disparities in exposure and in health response. Results Presence of CAFOs was associated with higher risk of PTB, with an increasing trend with higher levels of CAFOs exposure. Compared to the no CAFO exposure group, the odds ratios for PTB were 1.022 (95 % confidence interval 1.003, 1.043), 1.066 (1.034, 1.100), 1.069 (1.042, 1.097) for low, medium, and high CAFOs exposure groups, respectively. Some maternal characteristics were associated with a higher CAFO-related risk of PTB. Similar associations were observed for LBW for some characteristics such as mother's race/ethnicity, education, WIC status, and urbanicity, although some findings were not statistically significant. Conclusions Our findings suggest that presence of CAFOs increases risk of preterm birth. Our results indicate that some maternal characteristics may be associated with higher risk of CAFO-related PTB or LBW. This study can inform future research on disparities in CAFO exposure and associated health burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Young Son
- School of Health Policy and Management, College of Health Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Michelle L. Bell
- School of Health Policy and Management, College of Health Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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Pohl E, Lee SR. Local and Global Public Health and Emissions from Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations in the USA: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:916. [PMID: 39063493 PMCID: PMC11276819 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21070916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Up to 1.6 million tons of waste is produced annually by each of more than 21,000 concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) located in the United States (USA). These operations give rise to externalities, including adverse local and global health impacts from CAFO waste emissions, which can potentially outweigh their economic viability. However, a shortage of evidence synthesis research exclusively on the impacts of USA-based CAFO waste emissions may hinder effective policy development. This scoping review (ScR) study, adhering to the guidelines from the Joanna Briggs Institute, conducted a search in databases including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Embase in May 2020, resulting in ten publications that met the inclusion criteria. The results suggest possible exposure of CAFO workers to multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MDRSA), campylobacteriosis, and cryptosporidiosis. Communities near CAFOs experienced higher rates of adverse health impacts compared to those in non-CAFO areas, with patterns suggesting that proximity may correlate with increased odds of detrimental health effects. Implicit global health threats include methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), MDRSA, campylobacteriosis, tuberculosis, and cryptosporidiosis. These studies provide foundational insights into CAFO proximity, density patterns, and adverse public health effects, indicating a need for evidence-informed environmental health policies to minimize local and global risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Pohl
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Sang-Ryong Lee
- Aero-Soil Laboratory, Department of Biological and Environmental Science, Dongguk University, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea
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Simões M, Janssen N, Heederik DJJ, Smit LAM, Vermeulen R, Huss A. Residential proximity to livestock animals and mortality from respiratory diseases in The Netherlands: A prospective census-based cohort study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 161:107140. [PMID: 35189407 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing evidence of associations between residential proximity to livestock farms and respiratory morbidity, but less is known about potential effects on respiratory mortality among residents. OBJECTIVES We aimed to assess potential associations between respiratory mortality and residential proximity to (intensive) livestock farming. METHODS In DUELS, a national census-based cohort, we selected all inhabitants from rural and semi-urban areas of the Netherlands, aged ≥30 years and living at the same address for five years up to baseline (2004). We followed these ∼4 million individuals for respiratory mortality (respiratory system diseases, chronic lower respiratory diseases, pneumonia) from 2005 to 2012. We computed the average number of cattle, pigs, chicken, and mink present in 500 m, 1000 m, 1500 m and 2000 m of each individual's residence in the period 1999-2003. Analyses were conducted using Cox proportional hazards regression, adjusting for potential confounders at individual and neighbourhood level. RESULTS We found evidence that living up to 2000 m of pig farms was associated with respiratory mortality, namely from chronic lower respiratory diseases, with Hazard Ratios ranging from 1.06 (1.02, 1.10) in people living close to low numbers (<median number of animals) of pigs in 1000 m and 1.18 (1.13, 1.24) in those living near high numbers (≥median) of pigs in 2000 m. We also found indications of higher pneumonia mortality in people living near mink farms. CONCLUSION Our results are in line with previous findings of adverse respiratory effects in people living near livestock farms. Little is known about the physical, chemical, and biological exposures leading to respiratory morbidity and mortality warranting further explorations of air contaminants in the vicinity of livestock farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Simões
- Department Population Health Sciences, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Nicole Janssen
- Centre for Sustainability, Environment and Health (DMG), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Dick J J Heederik
- Department Population Health Sciences, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Lidwien A M Smit
- Department Population Health Sciences, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Roel Vermeulen
- Department Population Health Sciences, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Epidemiology, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Anke Huss
- Department Population Health Sciences, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Weehuizen JM, van Spronsen R, Hoepelman AIM, Bleeker-Rovers CP, Oosterheert JJ, Wever PC. No Influence of Previous Coxiella burnetii Infection on ICU Admission and Mortality in Emergency Department Patients Infected with SARS-CoV-2. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11030526. [PMID: 35159977 PMCID: PMC8836776 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11030526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: the geographical similarities of the Dutch 2007–2010 Q fever outbreak and the start of the 2020 coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) outbreak in the Netherlands raised questions and provided a unique opportunity to study an association between Coxiella burnetii infection and the outcome following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study in two Dutch hospitals. We assessed evidence of previous C. burnetii infection in COVID-19 patients diagnosed at the ED during the first COVID-19 wave and compared a combined outcome of in-hospital mortality and intensive care unit (ICU) admission using adjusted odds ratios (OR). Results: In total, 629 patients were included with a mean age of 68.0 years. Evidence of previous C. burnetii infection was found in 117 patients (18.6%). The combined primary outcome occurred in 40.2% and 40.4% of patients with and without evidence of previous C. burnetii infection respectively (adjusted OR of 0.926 (95% CI 0.605–1.416)). The adjusted OR of the secondary outcomes in-hospital mortality, ICU-admission and regular ward admission did not show an association either. Conclusion: no influence of previous C. burnetii infection on the risk of ICU admission and/or mortality for patients with COVID-19 presenting at the ED was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesper M. Weehuizen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (R.v.S.); (A.I.M.H.); (J.J.O.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Rik van Spronsen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (R.v.S.); (A.I.M.H.); (J.J.O.)
| | - Andy I. M. Hoepelman
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (R.v.S.); (A.I.M.H.); (J.J.O.)
| | - Chantal P. Bleeker-Rovers
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Radboud Expertise Center for Q Fever, Radboud University Medical Center, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Jan Jelrik Oosterheert
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands; (R.v.S.); (A.I.M.H.); (J.J.O.)
| | - Peter C. Wever
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Jeroen Bosch Hospital, 5223 GZ ‘s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands;
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Son JY, Miranda ML, Bell ML. Exposure to concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) and risk of mortality in North Carolina, USA. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 799:149407. [PMID: 34365264 PMCID: PMC8530906 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) have emerged as an environmental justice issue due to disproportionate siting in low-income and minority communities. However, CAFOs' impact on health is not fully understood. We examined risk of cause-specific mortality associated with CAFOs in North Carolina (NC) for 2000-2017 and health disparities. We obtained data on individual-level cause-specific mortality and on permitted animal facilities. We estimated associations between exposure to CAFOs and cause-specific mortality using logistic regression, controlling for demographics (e.g., age) and area-level covariates. To estimate exposure to CAFOs, we considered (1) a binary indicator (presence or absence) of CAFOs within a buffer around individual residence based on several buffer sizes, and (2) four levels of exposure (no, low, medium, and high) based on the number of CAFOs within 15 km around each residence. We considered individual-level (sex, race/ethnicity, age, education) and community-level (median household income, urbanicity, and region) factors. Under all buffer sizes used to estimate CAFOs exposure, people living near CAFOs had significantly higher risk of cardiovascular mortality than other persons. Comparing those living near CAFOs to the no exposure group, odds ratios (ORs) for cardiovascular mortality were 1.01 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00, 1.03), 1.04 (1.03, 1.06), and 1.06 (1.05, 1.07) for low, medium, and high CAFOs exposure, respectively, indicating a trend of higher risk with higher exposure. Those in the high CAFOs exposure group had significantly higher risk of anemia and kidney disease mortality than those with no exposure. Results suggest higher mortality risk from CAFOs for some subpopulations, however differences were not statistically significant. Findings provide evidence of excess mortality risk from CAFOs in NC. These results have implications for future studies of environmental justice and CAFOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Young Son
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Marie Lynn Miranda
- Department of Applied and Computational Mathematics and Statistics, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Michelle L Bell
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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Guadalupe-Fernandez V, De Sario M, Vecchi S, Bauleo L, Michelozzi P, Davoli M, Ancona C. Industrial odour pollution and human health: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Environ Health 2021; 20:108. [PMID: 34551760 PMCID: PMC8459501 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-021-00774-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To conduct a systematic review to evaluate the association between residential or occupational short- and long-term exposure to odour pollution from industrial sources and the health status of the exposed population. METHODS The searches were conducted in Medline, EMBASE and Scopus in April 2021. Exposure to an environmental odour from industrial sources in population resident near the source or in workers was considered. We considered outcomes for which there was a biological plausibility, such as wheezing and asthma, cough, headache, nausea and vomiting (primary outcomes). We also included stress-related symptoms and novel outcomes (e.g. mood states). Risk of bias was evaluated using the OHAT tool. For primary outcomes, when at least 3 studies provided effect estimates by comparing exposed subjects versus not exposed, we pooled the study-specific estimates of odour-related effect using random effects models. Heterogeneity was evaluated with Higgins I2. RESULTS Thirty studies were eligible for this review, mainly cross-sectional (n = 23). Only one study involved school-age children and two studies involved workers. Only five studies reported odour effects on objective laboratory or clinical outcomes. Animal Feeding Operations and waste were the most common industrial sources. The overall odds ratios in exposed versus not exposed population were 1.15 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.29) for headache (7 studies), 1.09 (95% CI 0.88 to 1.30) for nausea/vomiting (7 studies), and 1.27 (95% CI 1.10 to 1.44) for cough/phlegm (5 studies). Heterogeneity was a moderate concern. Overall, the body of evidence was affected by a definitely high risk of bias in exposure and outcome assessment since most studies used self-reported information. CONCLUSIONS Findings underline the public health importance of odour pollution for population living nearby industrial odour sources. The limited evidence for most outcomes supports the need for high quality epidemiological studies on the association between odour pollution and its effects on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Guadalupe-Fernandez
- Department of Epidemiology of the Lazio Regional Health Service, ASL Roma 1 (Italy), Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00147 Rome, Italy
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Manuela De Sario
- Department of Epidemiology of the Lazio Regional Health Service, ASL Roma 1 (Italy), Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00147 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Vecchi
- Department of Epidemiology of the Lazio Regional Health Service, ASL Roma 1 (Italy), Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00147 Rome, Italy
| | - Lisa Bauleo
- Department of Epidemiology of the Lazio Regional Health Service, ASL Roma 1 (Italy), Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00147 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Michelozzi
- Department of Epidemiology of the Lazio Regional Health Service, ASL Roma 1 (Italy), Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00147 Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Davoli
- Department of Epidemiology of the Lazio Regional Health Service, ASL Roma 1 (Italy), Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00147 Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Ancona
- Department of Epidemiology of the Lazio Regional Health Service, ASL Roma 1 (Italy), Via Cristoforo Colombo, 112, 00147 Rome, Italy
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Noyes NR, Slizovskiy IB, Singer RS. Beyond Antimicrobial Use: A Framework for Prioritizing Antimicrobial Resistance Interventions. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2021; 9:313-332. [PMID: 33592160 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-072020-080638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a threat to animal and human health. Antimicrobial use has been identified as a major driver of AMR, and reductions in use are a focal point of interventions to reduce resistance. Accordingly, stakeholders in human health and livestock production have implemented antimicrobial stewardship programs aimed at reducing use. Thus far, these efforts have yielded variable impacts on AMR. Furthermore, scientific advances are prompting an expansion and more nuanced appreciation of the many nonantibiotic factors that drive AMR, as well as how these factors vary across systems, geographies, and contexts. Given these trends, we propose a framework to prioritize AMR interventions. We use this framework to evaluate the impact of interventions that focus on antimicrobial use. We conclude by suggesting that priorities be expanded to include greater consideration of host-microbial interactions that dictate AMR, as well as anthropogenic and environmental systems that promote dissemination of AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle R Noyes
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota 55108, USA; ,
| | - Ilya B Slizovskiy
- Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota 55108, USA; ,
| | - Randall S Singer
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota 55108, USA;
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Panikkar B, Barrett MK. Precarious Essential Work, Immigrant Dairy Farmworkers, and Occupational Health Experiences in Vermont. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18073675. [PMID: 33915975 PMCID: PMC8038053 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18073675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Migrant dairy workers in Vermont face a wide range of occupational and health hazards at work. This research examines the environmental risks, occupational health hazards, and health outcomes experienced by migrant dairy farm workers in Vermont. This research draws on a triangulation of sources including analysis of data—surveys and interviews with migrant dairy farmworkers gathered by the organization Migrant Justice since 2015 as well as relevant key informant interviews with community organizations across the state to characterize the occupational health experiences of migrant dairy workers in Vermont. Our results show that Vermont migrant dairy farmworkers received poor health and safety training and lacked sufficient protective gear. Over three quarters of the respondents reported experiencing harm from chemical and biological risks. Close to half the survey respondents reported headaches, itchy eyes and cough; a quarter reported breathing difficulties; three fourths reported being hurt by animal-related risks. These exposures and existing health concerns are avoidable. Migrant workers require better social representation and advocates to negotiate better work-related protection and training, access to health services, and social welfare to ensure their health and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bindu Panikkar
- Bindu Panikkar, Environmental Studies Program and the Rubenstein School of the Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont, 81 Carrigan Dr., Burlington, VT 05405, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Mary-Kate Barrett
- College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Vermont, 146 University Place, Morril Hall, Burlington, VT 05405, USA;
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Son JY, Muenich RL, Schaffer-Smith D, Miranda ML, Bell ML. Distribution of environmental justice metrics for exposure to CAFOs in North Carolina, USA. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 195:110862. [PMID: 33581087 PMCID: PMC7987827 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.110862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have reported environmental disparities regarding exposure to concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). Public health implications of environmental justice from the intensive livestock industry are of great concern in North Carolina (NC), USA, a state with a large number and extensive history of CAFOs. OBJECTIVES We examined disparities by exposure to CAFOs using several environmental justice metrics and considering potentially vulnerable subpopulations. METHODS We obtained data on permitted animal facilities from NC Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Using ZIP code level variables from the 2010 Census, we evaluated environmental disparities by eight environmental justice metrics (i.e., percentage of Non-Hispanic White, Non-Hispanic Black, or Hispanic; percentage living below the poverty level; median household income; percentage with education less than high school diploma; racial residential isolation (RI) for Non-Hispanic Black; and educational residential isolation (ERI) for population without college degree). We applied two approaches to assign CAFOs exposure for each ZIP code: (1) a count method based on the number of CAFOs within ZIP code; and (2) a buffer method based on the area-weighted number of CAFOs using a 15 km buffer. RESULTS Spatial distributions of CAFOs exposure generally showed similar patterns between the two exposure methods. However, some ZIP codes had different estimated CAFOs exposure for the different approaches, with higher exposure when using the buffer method. Our findings indicate that CAFOs are located disproportionately in communities with higher percentage of minorities and in low-income communities. Distributions of environmental justice metrics generally showed similar patterns for both exposure methods, however starker disparities were observed using a buffer method. CONCLUSIONS Our findings of the disproportionate location of CAFOs provide evidence of environmental disparities with respect to race and socioeconomic status in NC and have implications for future studies of environmental and health impacts of CAFOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Young Son
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Rebecca L Muenich
- School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | | | | | - Michelle L Bell
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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One Health in hospitals: how understanding the dynamics of people, animals, and the hospital built-environment can be used to better inform interventions for antimicrobial-resistant gram-positive infections. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2020; 9:78. [PMID: 32487220 PMCID: PMC7268532 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-020-00737-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite improvements in hospital infection prevention and control, healthcare associated infections (HAIs) remain a challenge with significant patient morbidity, mortality, and cost for the healthcare system. In this review, we use a One Health framework (human, animal, and environmental health) to explain the epidemiology, demonstrate key knowledge gaps in infection prevention policy, and explore improvements to control Gram-positive pathogens in the healthcare environment. We discuss patient and healthcare worker interactions with the hospital environment that can lead to transmission of the most common Gram-positive hospital pathogens – methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus – and detail interventions that target these two One Health domains. We discuss the role of animals in the healthcare settings, knowledge gaps regarding their role in pathogen transmission, and the absence of infection risk mitigation strategies targeting animals. We advocate for novel infection prevention and control programs, founded on the pillars of One Health, to reduce Gram-positive hospital-associated pathogen transmission.
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Abstract
Most animal feeding operation owners recognize that they need to manage odors from their operations as part of their social relationship with their neighbors and local community. That was not always the case. Odors, whether pleasant or unpleasant, can evoke strong emotions and physiological responses. Odors from animal feeding operations are normally considered unpleasant and offensive if strong smelling and smelled often or for long periods of time. Animal feeding operation owners need to be aware of their odor emissions and the impacts the odors have on their neighbors and community. Good neighbor relations and effective communications can help identify odor problems and communicate what is being done to manage them. Odor management research and education includes odor basics, key processes including generation, emissions and dispersion, impacts, community and neighbor relations, and numerous mitigation practices. Animal feeding operation owners considering practices to reduce odor emissions or their impacts need to weigh the costs, expected effectiveness, and how the practice fits into the overall operation. Policymakers need science-based information to make informed decisions that balance the concerns and needs of neighbors and the community and the businesswomen and men that own and operate the animal feeding operations. This paper provides a broad overview of animal feeding operation odors and odor management.
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Eijrond V, Claassen L, van der Giessen J, Timmermans D. Intensive Livestock Farming and Residential Health: Experts' Views. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E3625. [PMID: 31569632 PMCID: PMC6801788 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16193625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The presence of intensive livestock farms in close vicinity to residential areas in the Netherlands is a complex problem characterised by knowledge uncertainty about the effects on residential health, overlapping value-driven concerns and stakeholder diversity. In order to address concerns about the health effects and effectively manage the debate about intensive livestock farming, constructive stakeholder dialogues are encouraged, informed by current scientific insights. We explored the current knowledge, beliefs and concerns of scientific experts, following the mental models approach. A summary expert model was derived from scanning the relevant literature and informed by interviews with 20 scientific experts. The study shows imprecise use of terminology by experts. Moreover, they appear to perceive intensive livestock farming not as a major health problem at least at this moment for neighbouring residents in the Netherlands. Broader themes such as (environmental) unsustainability and biodiversity loss seem a more prominent concern among the experts. Our study questions whether dialogues should only focus on residential health or cover broader values and concerns. However, mental models about risk may differ with other stakeholders, impeding communication. Hence, we will identify other stakeholders' knowledge, beliefs and value-based concerns in the light of facilitating constructed dialogues between stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Eijrond
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL-1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Liesbeth Claassen
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL-1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Centre for Environmental Security and Safety, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Joke van der Giessen
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control Netherlands, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Danielle Timmermans
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Van der Boechorststraat 7, NL-1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Mbareche H, Morawska L, Duchaine C. On the interpretation of bioaerosol exposure measurements and impacts on health. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2019; 69:789-804. [PMID: 30821643 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2019.1587552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Bioaerosols are recognized as one of the main transmission routes for infectious diseases and are responsible for other various types of health effects through inhalation and potential ingestion. Associating exposure with bioaerosol and health problems is challenging, and adequate exposure monitoring is a top priority for aerosol scientists. The multiple factors affecting bioaerosol content, the variability in the focus of each bioaerosol exposure study, and the variations in experimental design and the standardization of methods make bioaerosol exposure studies very difficult. Therefore, the health impacts of bioaerosol exposure are still poorly understood. This paper presents a brief description of a state-of-the-art development in bioaerosol exposure studies supported by studies on several related subjects. The main objective of this paper is to propose new considerations for bioaerosol exposure guidelines and the development of tools and study designs to better interpret bioaerosol data. The principal observations and findings are the discrepancy of the applicable methods in bioaerosol studies that makes result comparison impossible. Furthermore, the silo mentality helps in creating a bigger gap in the knowledge accumulated about bioaerosol exposure. Innovative and original ideas are presented for aerosol scientists and health scientists to consider and discuss. Although many examples cited herein are from occupational exposure, the discussion has relevance to any human environment. This work gives concrete suggestions for how to design a full bioaerosol study that includes all of the key elements necessary to help understand the real impacts of bioaerosol exposure in the short term. The creation of the proposed bioaerosol public database could give crucial information to control the public health. Implications: How can we move toward a bioaerosol exposure guidelines? The creation of the bioaerosol public database will help accumulate information for long-term association studies and help determine specific exposure biomarkers to bioaerosols. The implementation of such work will lead to a deeper understanding and more efficient utilization of bioaerosol studies to prevent public health hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Mbareche
- a Centre de recherche de l'institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec , Quebec City , Quebec , Canada
- b Département de biochimie, de microbiologie et de bio-informatique , Faculté des sciences et de génie, Université Laval , Quebec City , Quebec , Canada
| | - Lidia Morawska
- c School of Chemistry, Physics, and Mechanical Engineering, Department of Environmental Technologies , Queensland University of Technology , Brisbane , Queensland , Australia
| | - Caroline Duchaine
- a Centre de recherche de l'institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec , Quebec City , Quebec , Canada
- b Département de biochimie, de microbiologie et de bio-informatique , Faculté des sciences et de génie, Université Laval , Quebec City , Quebec , Canada
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Mbareche H, Veillette M, Pilote J, Létourneau V, Duchaine C. Bioaerosols Play a Major Role in the Nasopharyngeal Microbiota Content in Agricultural Environment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16081375. [PMID: 30995814 PMCID: PMC6518280 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16081375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background: Bioaerosols are a major concern for public health and sampling for exposure assessment purposes is challenging. The nasopharyngeal region could be a potent carrier of long-term bioaerosol exposure agents. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between nasopharyngeal bacterial flora of swine workers and the swine barns bioaerosol biodiversity. Methods: Air samples from eight swine barns as well as nasopharyngeal swabs from pig workers (n = 25) and from a non-exposed control group (n = 29) were sequenced using 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing. Wastewater treatment plants were used as the industrial, low-dust, non-agricultural environment control to validate the microbial link between the bioaerosol content (air) and the nasopharynxes of workers. Results: A multivariate analysis showed air samples and nasopharyngeal flora of pig workers cluster together, compared to the non-exposed control group. The significance was confirmed with the PERMANOVA statistical test (p-value of 0.0001). Unlike the farm environment, nasopharynx samples from wastewater workers did not cluster with air samples from wastewater treatment plants. The difference in the microbial community of nasopharynx of swine workers and a control group suggest that swine workers are carriers of germs found in bioaerosols. Conclusion: Nasopharynx sampling and microbiota could be used as a proxy of air sampling for exposure assessment studies or for the determination of exposure markers in highly contaminated agricultural environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Mbareche
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Québec G1V 4G5, Canada.
- Département de Biochimie, de Microbiologie et de Bio-Informatique, Faculté des Sciences et de Génie, Université Laval, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Marc Veillette
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Québec G1V 4G5, Canada.
| | - Jonathan Pilote
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Québec G1V 4G5, Canada.
- Département de Biochimie, de Microbiologie et de Bio-Informatique, Faculté des Sciences et de Génie, Université Laval, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Valérie Létourneau
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Québec G1V 4G5, Canada.
| | - Caroline Duchaine
- Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Québec G1V 4G5, Canada.
- Département de Biochimie, de Microbiologie et de Bio-Informatique, Faculté des Sciences et de Génie, Université Laval, Québec G1V 0A6, Canada.
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16
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Borlée F, Yzermans CJ, Oostwegel FSM, Schellevis F, Heederik D, Smit LAM. Attitude toward livestock farming does not influence the earlier observed association between proximity to goat farms and self-reported pneumonia. Environ Epidemiol 2019; 3:e041. [PMID: 33778336 PMCID: PMC7952105 DOI: 10.1097/ee9.0000000000000041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Attitudes toward environmental risks may be a source of bias in environmental health studies because concerns about environmental hazards may influence self-reported outcomes. OBJECTIVE The main aim was to assess whether earlier observed associations between proximity to goat farms and self-reported pneumonia were biased by participants' attitude toward farming. METHODS We developed an attitude-score for 2,457 participants of the Dutch Livestock Farming and Neighbouring Residents' Health Study (veehouderij en gezondheid omwonenden) by factor analysis of 13 questionnaire items related to attitude toward livestock farming. Linear regression analysis was used to assess associations between attitude and potential determinants. The effect of attitude on the association between goat farm proximity and pneumonia was analyzed by evaluating (1) misclassification of the outcome, (2) effect modification by attitude, and (3) exclusion of participants reporting health problems due to farms in their environment. RESULTS In general, the study population had a positive attitude toward farming, especially if participants were more familiar with farming. Older participants, females, ex-smokers, and higher-educated individuals had a more negative attitude. Both self-reported respiratory symptoms and exposure to livestock farms were associated with a more negative attitude. Misclassification of self-reported pneumonia was nondifferential with regard to participants' attitude. Furthermore, no indication was found that the association between proximity to goat farms and pneumonia was modified by attitude. Excluding subjects who attributed their health symptoms to livestock farms did also not change the association. CONCLUSIONS The association between goat farm proximity and pneumonia was not substantially biased by study participants' attitude toward livestock farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Floor Borlée
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, NIVEL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - C. Joris Yzermans
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, NIVEL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Floor S. M. Oostwegel
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - François Schellevis
- Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research, NIVEL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of General Practice & Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dick Heederik
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lidwien A. M. Smit
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Abstract
The term "ag-gag" refers to state laws that intentionally limit public access to information about agricultural production practices, particularly livestock production. Originally created in the 1990s, these laws have recently experienced a resurgence in state legislatures. We discuss the recent history of ag-gag laws in the United States and question whether such ag-gag laws create a "chilling effect" on reporting and investigation of occupational health, community health, and food safety concerns related to industrial food animal production. We conclude with a discussion of the role of environmental and occupational health professionals to encourage critical evaluation of how ag-gag laws might influence the health, safety, and interests of day-to-day agricultural laborers and the public living proximal to industrial food animal production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin A. Ceryes
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christopher D. Heaney
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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18
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Douglas P, Robertson S, Gay R, Hansell AL, Gant TW. A systematic review of the public health risks of bioaerosols from intensive farming. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2018; 221:134-173. [PMID: 29133137 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2017.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Population growth, increasing food demands, and economic efficiency have been major driving forces behind farming intensification over recent decades. However, biological emissions (bioaerosols) from intensified livestock farming may have the potential to impact human health. Bioaerosols from intensive livestock farming have been reported to cause symptoms and/or illnesses in occupational-settings and there is concern about the potential health effects on people who live near the intensive farms. As well as adverse health effects, some potential beneficial effects have been attributed to farm exposures in early life. The aim of the study was to undertake a systematic review to evaluate potential for adverse health outcomes in populations living near intensive livestock farms. MATERIAL AND METHODS Two electronic databases (PubMed and Scopus) and bibliographies were searched for studies reporting associations between health outcomes and bioaerosol emissions related to intensive farming published between January 1960 and April 2017, including both occupational and community studies. Two authors independently assessed studies for inclusion and extracted data. Risk of bias was assessed using a customized score. RESULTS 38 health studies met the inclusion criteria (21 occupational and 1 community study measured bioaerosol concentrations, 16 community studies using a proxy measure for exposure). The majority of occupational studies found a negative impact on respiratory health outcomes and increases in inflammatory biomarkers among farm workers exposed to bioaerosols. Studies investigating the health of communities living near intensive farms had mixed findings. All four studies of asthma in children found increased reported asthma prevalence among children living or attending schools near an intensive farm. Papers principally investigated respiratory and immune system outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The review indicated a potential impact of intensive farming on childhood respiratory health, based on a small number of studies using self-reported outcomes, but supported by findings from occupational studies. Further research is needed to measure and monitor exposure in community settings and relate this to objectively measured health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippa Douglas
- UK Small Area Health Statistics Unit, MRC-PHE Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Sarah Robertson
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom.
| | - Rebecca Gay
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom.
| | - Anna L Hansell
- UK Small Area Health Statistics Unit, MRC-PHE Centre for Environment and Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Public Health and Primary Care, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, United Kingdom.
| | - Timothy W Gant
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom.
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O'Connor AM, Auvermann BW, Dzikamunhenga RS, Glanville JM, Higgins JPT, Kirychuk SP, Sargeant JM, Totton SC, Wood H, Von Essen SG. Authors' response to comments from Nachman KE et al. Syst Rev 2017; 6:210. [PMID: 29061188 PMCID: PMC5654098 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-017-0611-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Authors' response to comments letter to the editor from Nachman KE et al.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette M O'Connor
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.
| | - Brent W Auvermann
- Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Texas A&M University, Amarillo, TX, USA
| | - Rungano S Dzikamunhenga
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | | | - Julian P T Higgins
- School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Shelley P Kirychuk
- Department of Medicine, Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Jan M Sargeant
- Department of Population Medicine, Centre for Public Health and Zoonoses, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah C Totton
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Hannah Wood
- Department of Medicine, Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Susanna G Von Essen
- Department of Environmental, Agricultural and Occupational Health, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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20
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Nachman KE, Lam J, Schinasi LH, Smith TC, Feingold BJ, Casey JA. O'Connor et al. systematic review regarding animal feeding operations and public health: critical flaws may compromise conclusions. Syst Rev 2017; 6:179. [PMID: 28859697 PMCID: PMC5580209 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-017-0575-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In this comment, we summarize several scientific concerns with the recently published systematic review from O'Connor and colleagues that examined the relationship between proximity to animal-feeding operations and health of individuals in nearby communities. The authors utilized a bias tool not designed for environmental health research, erroneously excluded important studies, and incorrectly interpreted others. As a result, the conclusions drawn in the review misrepresent the evidence from the published literature, limiting its value to policymakers, researchers, and the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keeve E Nachman
- Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Suite W7010-E, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Johns Hopkins Risk Sciences and Public Policy Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Juleen Lam
- Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, Department of OB/GYN & RS, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Leah H Schinasi
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Urban Health Collaborative, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Tara C Smith
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa College of Public Health, 145N. Riverside Drive, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa College of Public Health, Coralville, IA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Environmental Health Sciences and Epidemiology, College of Public Health, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Beth J Feingold
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany School of Public Health, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Joan A Casey
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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Jordan HR, Tomberlin JK. Abiotic and Biotic Factors Regulating Inter-Kingdom Engagement between Insects and Microbe Activity on Vertebrate Remains. INSECTS 2017; 8:E54. [PMID: 28538664 PMCID: PMC5492068 DOI: 10.3390/insects8020054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Abstract: A number of abiotic and biotic factors are known to regulate arthropod attraction, colonization, and utilization of decomposing vertebrate remains. Such information is critical when assessing arthropod evidence associated with said remains in terms of forensic relevance. Interactions are not limited to just between the resource and arthropods. There is another biotic factor that has been historically overlooked; however, with the advent of high-throughput sequencing, and other molecular techniques, the curtain has been pulled back to reveal a microscopic world that is playing a major role with regards to carrion decomposition patterns in association with arthropods. The objective of this publication is to review many of these factors and draw attention to their impact on microbial, specifically bacteria, activity associated with these remains as it is our contention that microbes serve as a primary mechanism regulating associated arthropod behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather R Jordan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39705, USA.
| | - Jeffery K Tomberlin
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
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