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Salles FJ, Pereira EC, de Oliveira AS, da Costa EAC, Nogueira T, De Oliveira Lima M, Góes Pereira JP, Lisboa Queiroz TK, Chagas BR, de Jesus IM, Silva AS, Cardoso MRA, Olympio KPK. Blood mercury concentrations in preschool children and potential risk factors in São Paulo, Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024:125112. [PMID: 39396724 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.125112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 09/19/2024] [Accepted: 10/11/2024] [Indexed: 10/15/2024]
Abstract
Environmental exposure of preschool children to mercury can elevate blood mercury levels (BML) and negatively affect their health. This study aimed to determine BML in preschool children from Brazil's largest city and explore potential associated risk factors. Blood samples were collected in 2013 from 2,436 children (age 1-5 years) attending 50 daycare centers (DCC) located in São Paulo, Brazil. Parents or guardians answered questionnaires collecting information on sociodemographics and potential risk factors. BML was determined by Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (CV-AAS) and categorized using a cutoff point of 2.77 μg L⁻1, corresponding to the 75th percentile. Multiple logistic regression was performed (p<0.05). Data were georeferenced and associations with air pollution, wind frequency and direction were evaluated. The results showed a geometric mean for BML of 1.65 μg L⁻1 (95%CI: 1.60-1.70), arithmetic mean of 2.15 μg L⁻1 (95%CI: 2.09-2.22), 75th percentile of 2.77 μg L⁻1 (95%CI: 2.67-2.91) and 95th percentile of 5.51 μg L⁻1 (95%CI: 5.18-5.92). DCCs located in the Northwest and East zones (p<0.001) and fish consumption in the past two days (p=0.04) were associated with high BML. The elevated BML observed in children living in the eastern zone might be attributed to the southeasterly winds passing through a petrochemical complex located nearby. The 95th percentile of BML in this study exceeded the U.S. 95th percentile by five times. BML in Sao Paulo preschool children was associated with individual and environmental risk factors. This finding highlights the need to identify and control hot spots in Sao Paulo, Brazil, especially in peripheral and surrounding areas, where individuals are more vulnerable. Further research is needed in Latin America to identify additional sources of urban environmental mercury exposure and guide interventions for protecting the environment and safeguarding children's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Junqueira Salles
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715, Cerqueira César, SP, Brasil; The Human Exposome Research Group/ Expossoma e Saúde do Trabalhador - eXsat, School of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715, Cerqueira César, SP, Brazil
| | - Elizeu Chiodi Pereira
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715, Cerqueira César, SP, Brasil; The Human Exposome Research Group/ Expossoma e Saúde do Trabalhador - eXsat, School of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715, Cerqueira César, SP, Brazil
| | - Allan Santos de Oliveira
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715, Cerqueira César, SP, Brasil; Municipal Secretariat for the Environment, City Hall, Suzano, SP, Brazil
| | - Eric A C da Costa
- Municipal Secretariat for the Environment, City Hall, Suzano, SP, Brazil; Postgraduate course in Territorial planning and management, Federal University of ABC, Santo André, SP, Brazil
| | - Thiago Nogueira
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715, Cerqueira César, SP, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Agnes Soares Silva
- Department of Environmental Health Surveillance and Worker Health, Secretariat of Health and Environmental Surveillance, Ministry of Health, Brazil
| | - Maria Regina Alves Cardoso
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715, Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Kelly Polido Kaneshiro Olympio
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715, Cerqueira César, SP, Brasil; The Human Exposome Research Group/ Expossoma e Saúde do Trabalhador - eXsat, School of Public Health, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715, Cerqueira César, SP, Brazil.
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Huang N, Wang B, Liu S, Wang K, Wang R, Liu F, Chen C. Cadmium exposure in infants and children: toxicity, health effects, dietary risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2024:1-23. [PMID: 39264340 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2024.2403036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
As a non-essential metal, cadmium (Cd) poses a significant threat to food safety and public health. This risk is particularly pronounced for infants and young children due to their high food consumption relative to body weight and immature physiological systems. This review examines the health risks associated with Cd exposure, particularly during the prenatal period through adolescence. It evaluates the prevalence of Cd-rich foods in children's diets and their intake levels across various countries. The review demonstrates that Cd exposure is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, immune dysfunction, and cardiovascular diseases. It also highlights geographic differences in exposure, with some Asian countries, such as Thailand and China, exhibiting higher overall levels of Cd intake among children compared to other regions. This review presents several recommendations to mitigate Cd intake during early childhood, including reducing the Cd content in food, inhibiting Cd absorption, and promoting its excretion from the body. To minimize the risk of dietary Cd intake in children, it is recommended that stringent regulations of Cd limits in children's food be implemented, alongside a coordinated multi-stakeholder effort. This review provides important insights into effective public health policy development, laying the foundation for achieving broader public health goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Huang
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Baozhen Wang
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shufang Liu
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Kebo Wang
- Shandong Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment, Shandong Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Jinan, China
| | - Ruike Wang
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Fengquan Liu
- Department of Plant Pathology/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Agriculture, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Chen Chen
- School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Webster AM, Pinion D, Pineda E, Aboueisha H, Hussein MH, Fawzy MS, Toraih EA, Kandil E. Elucidating the link between thyroid cancer and mercury exposure: a review and meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:12841-12855. [PMID: 38273084 PMCID: PMC10881592 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32031-8] [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: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a widely distributed and bioavailable metal of public health concern, with many known human toxicities, but data regarding mercury's influence on thyroid cancer (TC) is scarce. Mercury is known to impact several molecular pathways implicated in carcinogenesis, and its proclivity for bioaccumulation in the thyroid suggests a potential modulatory effect. We conducted a literature/systematic review of studies between 1995-2022 intending to define better and establish relationships between these two entities, congregate the evidence for mercury's potential role in thyroid carcinogenesis, and identify populations of interest for further study. Insufficient evidence precludes definitive conclusions on dietary mercury as a TC risk factor; however, several common mechanisms affected by mercury are crucial for TC development, including biochemical, endocrine, and reactive oxygen species effects. Quantitative analysis revealed associations between TC risk and mercury exposure. In three mercury studies, average urine levels were higher in TC patients, with a mean difference of 1.86 µg/g creatinine (95% CI = 0.32-3.41). In two studies investigating exposure to elevated mercury levels, the exposed group exhibited a higher risk of developing TC, with a relative risk of 1.90 (95% CI = 1.76-2.06). In three thyroid tissue studies, mercury levels (ppm) were higher in TC patients, averaging 0.14 (0.06-0.22) in cancerous cases (N = 178) and 0.08 (0.04-0.11) in normal thyroids (N = 257). Our findings suggest an association between mercury exposure and TC risk, implying a possible predisposing factor. Further research is necessary to reveal the clinical relevance of dietary and environmental mercury exposures in TC pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa M Webster
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Dylan Pinion
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Eric Pineda
- School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Hadeel Aboueisha
- Medical Education Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt
| | - Mohammad H Hussein
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Manal S Fawzy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Northern Border University, Arar, Saudi Arabia
- Unit of Medical Research and Postgraduate Studies, Faculty of Medicine, Northern Border University, Arar, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman A Toraih
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
- Genetics Unit, Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt.
| | - Emad Kandil
- Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
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Pérez-Castro S, D’Auria G, Llambrich M, Fernández-Barrés S, Lopez-Espinosa MJ, Llop S, Regueiro B, Bustamante M, Francino MP, Vrijheid M, Maitre L. Influence of perinatal and childhood exposure to tobacco and mercury in children's gut microbiota. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1258988. [PMID: 38249448 PMCID: PMC10799562 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1258988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Early life determinants of the development of gut microbiome composition in infants have been widely investigated; however, if early life pollutant exposures, such as tobacco or mercury, have a persistent influence on the gut microbial community, its stabilization at later childhood remains largely unknown. Objective In this exposome-wide study, we aimed at identifying the contribution of exposure to tobacco and mercury from the prenatal period to childhood, to individual differences in the fecal microbiome composition of 7-year-old children, considering co-exposure to a width of established lifestyle and clinical determinants. Methods Gut microbiome was studied by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing in 151 children at the genus level. Exposure to tobacco was quantified during pregnancy through questionnaire (active tobacco consumption, second-hand smoking -SHS) and biomonitoring (urinary cotinine) at 4 years (urinary cotinine, SHS) and 7 years (SHS). Exposure to mercury was quantified during pregnancy (cord blood) and at 4 years (hair). Forty nine other potential environmental determinants (12 at pregnancy/birth/infancy, 15 at 4 years and 22 at 7 years, such as diet, demographics, quality of living/social environment, and clinical records) were registered. We used multiple models to determine microbiome associations with pollutants including multi-determinant multivariate analysis of variance and linear correlations (wUnifrac, Bray-Curtis and Aitchison ß-diversity distances), single-pollutant permutational multivariate analysis of variance adjusting for co-variates (Aitchison), and multivariable association model with single taxa (MaAsLin2; genus). Sensitivity analysis was performed including genetic data in a subset of 107 children. Results Active smoking in pregnancy was systematically associated with microbiome composition and ß-diversity (R2 2-4%, p < 0.05, Aitchison), independently of other co-determinants. However, in the adjusted single pollutant models (PERMANOVA), we did not find any significant association. An increased relative abundance of Dorea and decreased relative abundance of Akkermansia were associated with smoking during pregnancy (q < 0.05). Discussion Our findings suggest a long-term sustainable effect of prenatal tobacco exposure on the children's gut microbiota. This effect was not found for mercury exposure or tobacco exposure during childhood. Assessing the role of these exposures on the children's microbiota, considering multiple environmental factors, should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Pérez-Castro
- Microbiology Department, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de Vigo (CHUVI), Vigo, Spain
- Microbiology and Infectology Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute (IIS Galicia Sur), SERGAS-UVIGO, Vigo, Spain
| | - Giuseppe D’Auria
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Sequencing and Bioinformatics Service, Fundació per al Foment de la Investigació Sanitària i Biomédica de la Comunitat Valenciana (FISABIO), Valencia, Spain
| | - Maria Llambrich
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sílvia Fernández-Barrés
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria-Jose Lopez-Espinosa
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research in the Valencian Region, FISABIO–Universitat Jaume I–Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
- Faculty of Nursing and Chiropody, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Sabrina Llop
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research in the Valencian Region, FISABIO–Universitat Jaume I–Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Benito Regueiro
- Microbiology and Infectology Research Group, Galicia Sur Health Research Institute (IIS Galicia Sur), SERGAS-UVIGO, Vigo, Spain
| | - Mariona Bustamante
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- Àrea de Genòmica i Salut, Fundació per al Foment de la Investigació Sanitària i Biomèdica de la Comunitat Valenciana (FISABIO)-Salut Pública, Valencia, Spain
| | - M. Pilar Francino
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Àrea de Genòmica i Salut, Fundació per al Foment de la Investigació Sanitària i Biomèdica de la Comunitat Valenciana (FISABIO)-Salut Pública, Valencia, Spain
| | - Martine Vrijheid
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Léa Maitre
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
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5
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Baek K, Park C, Sakong J. Increase of blood mercury level with shark meat consumption: A repeated-measures study before and after Chuseok, Korean holiday. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 344:140317. [PMID: 37775060 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140317] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Sharks are known to contain high levels of mercury in their meat. However, few studies have directly assessed the changes in mercury concentration in the human body according to shark meat intake. One hundred and ninety-seven participants that traditionally consume shark meat during the Chuseok holiday were recruited from two areas of Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea to examine their blood mercury level before and after the holiday season. Blood mercury levels were measured before and after the holiday season. Characteristics such as the consumption of shark meat, intake amount, and the effect on mercury concentration were assessed during the survey. Univariable and multivariable analysis (Linear Mixed Model) were done for assessing the association between shark meat consumption of holiday season and blood mercury level. Among the total participants, 83 consumed shark meat during holiday. In the univariable analysis, a significant increase in blood mercury levels before and after Chuseok was observed only for the group that consumed shark meat during holiday. The multivariable analysis (adjusted for identified confounders that affect both exposure and outcome considering repeated measurements) showed that consuming shark meat was significantly associated with increased blood mercury levels by 3.56 μg/L (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.64-4.67 μg/L). In the model considering the amount consumed as two group, the level of increase was 2.61 μg/L (95% CI, 1.63-3.58 μg/L) for those consuming <100 g, and 6.20 μg/L (95% CI, 4.77-7.62 μg/L) for those consuming ≥100 g compared to group without consuming shark meat. Considering amount consumed as continuous value, 0.02 μg/L (95% CI, 0.01-0.02 μg/L) of blood mercury increase was significantly associated with consuming 1 g. Consumption of shark meat significantly elevated blood mercury levels, exceeding commonly suggested reference concentrations in less than 2 weeks. These findings suggest the need for public health warnings and regulations regarding shark meat consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiook Baek
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Yeungnam University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea; Department of Medicine, Graduate School of Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Chulyong Park
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Yeungnam University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea; Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Joon Sakong
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Yeungnam University Hospital, Daegu, South Korea; Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, College of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, South Korea.
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Packull-McCormick S, Cowan A, Stark KD, Low M, Gamberg M, Swanson H, Laird B. Mercury bioaccessiblity in freshwater fish species from northern Canada. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 899:165624. [PMID: 37478927 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165624] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Indigenous communities in northern Canada rely on locally harvested traditional foods, including fish, which provides them with nutritional, cultural, and social benefits. However, mercury exposure from fish consumption can pose a health risk for populations that consume large amounts of fish with elevated mercury concentrations. The bioaccessiblity of mercury in the tissue of northern Canadian freshwater fish is not yet known. To address this, samples from five commonly consumed freshwater fish species (Lake Trout, Northern Pike, Walleye, Lake Whitefish, and Burbot) caught from lakes in the Northwest Territories and Yukon, Canada were examined. Total mercury concentrations, fatty acid composition, and total mercury bioaccessibility differed significantly among fish species and lakes. Mean total mercury bioaccessibility using an in vitro gastrointestinal model ranged between 56 % and 96 % in muscle tissue across fish species and waterbodies examined and was 39 % in liver tissue from Burbot. Mean total mercury bioaccessibility was much lower (range: 38 % to 42 %) for a subset of samples run through only the gastric phase of the digestion model. Total mercury bioaccessibility was significantly lower (on average 40 % lower) in a subset of samples that were pan-fried in water. Thus, although cooking increased total mercury concentrations in pan-fried fish samples (likely due to moisture loss), bioaccessible concentrations of total mercury were lower (on average 32 % lower). Results from this study contribute to addressing a large knowledge gap in the literature regarding bioaccessibility of total mercury in northern freshwater fish species. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to examine mercury bioaccessibility in raw and cooked liver samples from freshwater fish. It also adds to the growing literature indicating that mercury bioaccessibility varies among fish species, locations, and cooking/preparation methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Packull-McCormick
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Alicia Cowan
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Ken D Stark
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Mike Low
- Dehcho Aboriginal Aquatic Resources & Oceans Management, Fort Simpson, NT, Canada
| | - Mary Gamberg
- Gamberg Consulting, 11267, Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada
| | - Heidi Swanson
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Brian Laird
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, Canada.
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7
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Shi LL, Hang JG, Lou J, Dong JJ, Feng H, Wang Z, Shen B, Nakayama SF, Kido T, Ma C, Sun XL, Jung CR. Multiple exposures to heavy metals and changes in steroid hormones production in 4-year-old children. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2023; 33:865-873. [PMID: 36973528 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-023-00539-9] [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: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal exposure to multiple heavy metals can interfere with early neurodevelopment, lead to changes in sex hormone concentrations in children, and affect female reproductive health. To date, the influence of prenatal exposure to heavy metals on the endocrine system of children in Chinese electronic waste (e-waste) recycling areas has not been elucidated. METHODS Four weeks after delivery, 10 mL of human milk was collected for analysis of three heavy metals (lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg)) via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Four serum steroid hormones, including progesterone, testosterone, androstenedione (A-dione), and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), were analyzed in 4-year-old children (25 boys and 17 girls). A multiple linear regression (MLR) model was implemented to investigate the association between each individual metal and serum steroid hormone. The exposure-response relationships were explored by generalized additive models (GAMs). Additionally, a Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) model was used to assess the effects of multiple heavy metal exposures on each steroid hormone. RESULTS The MLR results show a significant positive association between a natural log unit increase in Hg and DHEA levels after adjusting for confounders (β = 65.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 4.37, 126.62). According to the GAM, the univariate exposure-response relationship of Hg on DHEA was almost linear. However, this association was attenuated based on the multiple metal MLR and BKMR results after accounting for multiple heavy metal exposures. SIGNIFICANCE Prenatal Hg exposure may affect sex hormones in children by affecting DHEA levels. IMPACT STATEMENT Prenatal maternal exposure to Hg may have long-term effects on the next generation. Hence, regulatory measures to reduce Hg exposure and long-term monitoring of children's health in e-waste areas are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li Shi
- School of Medicine, and Huzhou Key Laboratory for Precise Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Huzhou University, Huzhou, China
- School of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Jin Guo Hang
- Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Jianlin Lou
- School of Medicine, and Huzhou Key Laboratory for Precise Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Huzhou University, Huzhou, China
| | | | - Hao Feng
- School of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- School of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Bin Shen
- School of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Shoji F Nakayama
- Japan Environment and Children's Study Programme Office, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Kido
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical, and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Chaochen Ma
- Cancer Control Center, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Japan
| | - Xian Liang Sun
- School of Medicine, and Huzhou Key Laboratory for Precise Prevention and Control of Major Chronic Diseases, Huzhou University, Huzhou, China.
- School of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China.
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical, and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan.
| | - Chau-Ren Jung
- Japan Environment and Children's Study Programme Office, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Japan.
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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8
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Packull-McCormick S, Ashley-Martin J, Singh K, Fisher M, Arbuckle TE, Lanphear B, Laird BD, Muckle G, Booij L, Asztalos E, Walker M, Bouchard MF, Saint-Amour D, Boivin M, Borghese M. Prenatal and concurrent blood mercury concentrations and associations with IQ in canadian preschool children. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 233:116463. [PMID: 37343750 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116463] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal and childhood mercury (Hg) exposures have been associated with negative impacts on child neurodevelopment. It is unclear if associations persist at the low Hg exposures typical in Western countries. OBJECTIVE To examine associations between prenatal/childhood blood Hg concentrations and child IQ in Canadian male and female children while considering the potential modifying role of prenatal fish consumption. METHODS We analyzed data from the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals study. Hg was measured in first trimester (n = 527), cord (n = 430), and child (at 3-4 years of age, n = 355) blood and examined sex-stratified associations between blood Hg and children's Full Scale IQ (FSIQ), Verbal IQ (VIQ), Performance IQ (PIQ), and General Language Composite (GLC) scores (assessed with WPPSI-III). Prenatal Hg analyses were further stratified by prenatal fish consumption (low: 0-2, moderate: 3-7, or high: ≥8 times/month). RESULTS Higher cord blood Hg concentrations were associated with lower PIQ (ß = -3.27; 95%CI: 6.44, -0.09) in male children with the lowest prenatal fish consumption. Progressively stronger positive associations were observed with PIQ in male children for moderate (ß = 1.08; 95%CI: 0.10, 2.26) and high (ß = 3.07; 95%CI: 1.95, 4.19) prenatal fish consumption. Cord blood Hg concentrations were positively associated with female children's FSIQ (ß = 1.29; 95% CI: 0.77, 1.81) and PIQ (ß = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.19, 2.83); however, when stratified only in the highest fish consumption subgroup. Among female children, higher child blood Hg concentrations were associated with an approximately 1-point increase in FSIQ, VIQ, and GLC. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal exposure to low levels of Hg was associated with lower PIQ scores in male children with low prenatal fish intake. Positive associations between cord and child blood Hg concentrations and IQ were primarily observed in female children and may be due to beneficial effects of prenatal fish intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Packull-McCormick
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada; School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Jillian Ashley-Martin
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Kavita Singh
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Mandy Fisher
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Tye E Arbuckle
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | | | - Brian D Laird
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Gina Muckle
- Université Laval, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada; Quebec CHU Research Center, QC, G1E 6W2, Canada
| | - Linda Booij
- Research Centre, Douglas Mental Health University Institute & Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Rentre, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Asztalos
- Department of Newborn & Developmental Paediatrics, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, ON, M5G 1V7, Canada
| | - Mark Walker
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, ON, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Maryse F Bouchard
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Montreal School of Public Health, QC, H3N 1X9, Canada
| | | | | | - Michael Borghese
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada.
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9
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Aly SM, Elfiky S, Mohamed YG, Soliman RAM, Shalaby N, Beauval N, Gaulier JM, Allorge D, Omran A. Lead, Mercury, and Cadmium Concentrations in Blood Products Transfused to Neonates: Elimination Not Just Mitigation. TOXICS 2023; 11:712. [PMID: 37624217 PMCID: PMC10458708 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11080712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd) are identified as potent developmental neurotoxicants. Neonates are the main group receiving multiple blood transfusions. The exposure of neonates to these heavy metals (HMs) can occur through blood transfusions. This study aimed to determine the concentrations of lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd) in various blood products (plasma, platelets, packed red blood cells (pRBCs), and whole blood (WB)) to explore the probability of concurrent exposure of these HMs and to identify the metal load per transfusion with risk assessment. Residual bloods from blood bank bags were collected after neonatal transfusion. Pb, Hg, and Cd concentrations were determined in 120 samples of blood products by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Pb and Cd levels were over the normal levels in 19.2 and 5.9% of all blood units, respectively. In 35 and 0.8% of blood units, the Pb and Cd concentrations, respectively, were higher than that recommended for transfusions in premature neonates. The anticipated safe value was surpassed by 2.5% for Cd of all transfusions, primarily because of WB. However, Hg was detected only in 5.8% of all samples and their concentrations were within the normal range. The concurrent neonatal exposure to Pb, Hg, and Cd was statistically significant. Hazard quotients of Hg and Cr were >1 and Pb cancer risk was 2.41 × 10-4. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first report examining Pb, Hg, and Cd in blood products other than WB and pRBCs using ICP-MS. This study demonstrated the exposure of neonates to Pb, Hg, and Cd during transfusion with a considerable amount of Pb. It confirms the significant concurrent exposure to the three HMs, which maximize their potential developmental neurotoxicity with a high probability of developing non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaa M. Aly
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
- CHU Lille, Service de Toxicologie-Génopathies, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Samar Elfiky
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Yasmine G. Mohamed
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Radwa A. M. Soliman
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Nancy Shalaby
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Damietta University, New Damietta 34517, Egypt
| | - Nicolas Beauval
- CHU Lille, Service de Toxicologie-Génopathies, F-59000 Lille, France
- Université de Lille, ULR 4483—IMPECS—IMPact de l’Environnement Chimique sur la Santé Humaine, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Jean-Michel Gaulier
- CHU Lille, Service de Toxicologie-Génopathies, F-59000 Lille, France
- Université de Lille, ULR 4483—IMPECS—IMPact de l’Environnement Chimique sur la Santé Humaine, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Delphine Allorge
- CHU Lille, Service de Toxicologie-Génopathies, F-59000 Lille, France
- Université de Lille, ULR 4483—IMPECS—IMPact de l’Environnement Chimique sur la Santé Humaine, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Ahmed Omran
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
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10
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Henríquez-Hernández LA, Acosta-Dacal AC, Boada LD, Zumbado M, Serra-Majem L, Luzardo OP. Concentration of Essential, Toxic, and Rare Earth Elements in Ready-to-Eat Baby Purees from the Spanish Market. Nutrients 2023; 15:3251. [PMID: 37513669 PMCID: PMC10384816 DOI: 10.3390/nu15143251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The infant population is particularly sensitive, so the risk posed by their diet must be analyzed. The aims of the present study were (i) to determine the contents of 38 elements in 159 samples of ready-to-eat baby food sold in Spain and (ii) to estimate the dietary intakes and risk assessments of these elements in name brands and store brands in infants ranging between 6 and 12 months of age. METHODS A list of essential, non-essential/toxic elements, rare earth elements (REEs), and other hi-tech-related elements that are currently considered as emerging environmental pollutants were measured in ready-to-eat baby foods by ICP-MS. RESULTS Fish purees showed the highest concentrations of mercury (28.1 ng/g) and arsenic (346.2 ng/g). The levels of manganese, molybdenum, and chromium exceed the adequate intake, being higher in the case of store brands. The acute hazard index was above 1 for molybdenum and manganese. A risky consumption of thallium and mercury was observed, being higher among name brands. The risk associated with the consumption of REEs was low, although its presence should be highlighted. CONCLUSIONS This is the first time that these chemical elements have been measured in ready-to-eat purees for babies. The presence of some of them, such as mercury, should be sufficient to monitor the levels of these contaminants in food intended for such a sensitive population as children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Alberto Henríquez-Hernández
- Toxicology Unit, Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences (IUIBS), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
- Spanish Bimedical Research Centre in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERObn), Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Andrea Carolina Acosta-Dacal
- Toxicology Unit, Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences (IUIBS), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Luis D Boada
- Toxicology Unit, Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences (IUIBS), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
- Spanish Bimedical Research Centre in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERObn), Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Manuel Zumbado
- Toxicology Unit, Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences (IUIBS), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
- Spanish Bimedical Research Centre in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERObn), Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Lluis Serra-Majem
- Toxicology Unit, Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences (IUIBS), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
- Spanish Bimedical Research Centre in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERObn), Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Octavio P Luzardo
- Toxicology Unit, Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences (IUIBS), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
- Spanish Bimedical Research Centre in Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERObn), Paseo Blas Cabrera Felipe s/n, 35016 Las Palmas, Spain
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11
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Chemelo VS, Bittencourt LO, Nascimento PC, Paiva MF, Delbem ACB, Pessan JP, do Espírito Santo AR, Albuquerque ARL, Angélica RS, Crespo-Lopez ME, Pessanha S, Aschner M, Lima RR. Maternal methylmercury exposure during early-life periods adversely affects mature enamel structure of offspring rats at human exposure levels: a concern for oral health. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1183308. [PMID: 37457266 PMCID: PMC10348892 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1183308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Although there are many studies on the health effects of methylmercury (MeHg) toxicity during in utero and early development, little is known about its effects on mineralized tissues present in the oral cavity, such as enamel structure. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of MeHg exposure on the physico-chemical, ultrastructural and functional properties of mature tooth enamel. Specifically, we studied offspring of mothers exposed to MeHg during the prenatal and postnatal periods which are the developmental stages associated with tooth enamel formation. Female rats were exposed to MeHg at a dose of 40 μg/kg/day for 42 days of pregnancy and lactation. The enamel of offspring was analyzed by (1) Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Raman to assess physicochemical composition, (2) Scanning Electron Microscopy for ultrastructural evaluation, (3) Transmitted Polarizing Light Microscopy for analysis of the enamel extracellular matrix, and (4) resistance and hardness were evaluated by microhardness. The results showed that MeHg exposure during this sensitive enamel formation period induced changes in inorganic and organic content and enamel prisms ultrastructure alterations and disturbed the organic extracellular matrix due to a decreased enamel strength. These novel findings establish for the first time that maternal exposure to MeHg pre and postnatal promoted relevant changes in mature enamel of their offspring rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victória Santos Chemelo
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Oliveira Bittencourt
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Priscila Cunha Nascimento
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Mayra Frasson Paiva
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, Brazil
| | - Alberto Carlos Botazzo Delbem
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, Brazil
| | - Juliano Pelim Pessan
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Ribeiro do Espírito Santo
- Laboratory of Histotechnology and Tissue Biology, Department of Biomorphology, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | - Rômulo Simões Angélica
- Laboratory of X-Ray Diffraction, Institute of Geosciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Maria Elena Crespo-Lopez
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Sofia Pessanha
- Laboratory of Instrumentation, Biomedical Engineering and Radiation Physics, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Rafael Rodrigues Lima
- Laboratory of Functional and Structural Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém, Pará, Brazil
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12
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Bello TCS, Buralli RJ, Cunha MPL, Dórea JG, Diaz-Quijano FA, Guimarães JRD, Marques RC. Mercury Exposure in Women of Reproductive Age in Rondônia State, Amazon Region, Brazil. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5225. [PMID: 36982134 PMCID: PMC10049295 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20065225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contamination by mercury (Hg) is a problem of global scale that affects human health. This study's aim was to evaluate Hg exposure among women of reproductive age residing in the Madeira River basin, in the State of Rondônia, Brazilian Amazon. This longitudinal cohort study used linear regression models to assess the effects on Hg levels of breastfeeding duration at 6 months, and of breastfeeding duration and number of new children at 2-year and 5-year. Breastfeeding duration was significantly associated with maternal Hg levels in all regression models (6 months, 2 years and 5 years) and no significant association was observed between the number of children and the change in maternal Hg levels in the 2-year and 5-year models. This longitudinal cohort study evaluated Hg levels and contributing factors among pregnant women from different communities (riverine, rural, mining and urban) in Rondônia, Amazon Region, for 5 years. A well-coordinated and designed national biomonitoring program is urgently needed to better understand the current situation of Hg levels in Brazil and the Amazon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thayssa C. S. Bello
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais e Conservação, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Macaé 27965-045, Brazil;
| | - Rafael J. Buralli
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo 01246-903, Brazil;
| | - Mônica P. L. Cunha
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Desenvolvimento Regional e Meio Ambiente, Universidade Federal de Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho 76801-058, Brazil;
| | - José G. Dórea
- Departamento de Nutrição, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasilia 70970-000, Brazil;
| | - Fredi A. Diaz-Quijano
- Departamento de Epidemiologia, Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo 01246-904, Brazil;
| | - Jean R. D. Guimarães
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-170, Brazil;
| | - Rejane C. Marques
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais e Conservação, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Macaé 27965-045, Brazil;
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13
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Liu B, Li L, Xie Q, Li Y, Wang Q. Neurobehavioral effects of cinnabar and the cinnabar-containing pediatric prescription, Yi-Nian-Jin, in juvenile rats. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2023; 76:127112. [PMID: 36481603 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2022.127112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cinnabar, a mercury-containing mineral medicine, has long been widely used in pediatric prescriptions. The safety of cinnabar-containing prescriptions, particularly for children, is drawing increasing attention worldwide. However, whether cinnabar and these pediatric prescriptions have adverse effects on neurobehavior is unknown. Yi-Nian-Jin (YNJ), a classic pediatric prescription, contains 5.66% (w/w) cinnabar, along with other four herbs. YNJ is widely prescribed to promote digestion, eliminate phlegm, and prevent constipation in children (aged 0-6 years). In this study, we used YNJ as an example of cinnabar-containing pediatric prescriptions to determine mercury absorption, distribution, and accumulation and further investigate its potential neurotoxicity in juvenile rats. MATERIAL AND METHODS Low (67.9 mg/kg), middle (169.8 mg/kg), and high dose (339.6 mg/kg) of cinnabar, and low (1.2 g/kg), middle (3.0 g/kg), and high dose (6.0 g/kg) of YNJ were used in this study, corresponding to 3, 7.5, and 15 times the clinically equivalent dose, respectively. Juvenile rats were orally administered different doses of cinnabar or YNJ for 14 consecutive days. The mercury content in rat blood and tissues (brain, liver, and kidney) and serum biochemical changes on day 14 of consecutive administration and on day 14 after cessation were measured. Moreover, a series of behavioral assays (open field, elevated plus-maze, and Morris water maze assays) were performed after 14 consecutive days of administration. RESULTS The mercury absorption, distribution, and accumulation of cinnabar and YNJ in juvenile rats were substantially different. Mercury in cinnabar was absorbed to a greater extent than that in YNJ, and the mercury content in cinnabar high-dose group (cinnabar-H) was approximately seven times higher than that in YNJ high-dose group (YNJ-H) on day 14 of administration. In contrast, compared with that of cinnabar, the mercury content in YNJ accumulated more in the tissues, especially in the brain and kidney. Repeated administration of cinnabar or YNJ did not affect liver function, renal function, learning, and memory in juvenile rats. However, repeated administration of YNJ at a high dose (6.0 g/kg) affected locomotor activity in juvenile rats. Repeated administration of cinnabar (339.6 mg/kg) or YNJ (>1.2 g/kg) induced anxiety-related behavior in juvenile rats. CONCLUSIONS Mercury in YNJ exhibited lower absorption but higher accumulation in tissues than those of the mercury in cinnabar. Consecutive oral administration of cinnabar or YNJ had no impact on liver function, renal function, learning, and memory, but could cause motor dysfunction and anxiety in juvenile rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohan Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, PR China
| | - Ludi Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, PR China
| | - Qing Xie
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, PR China
| | - Yingzi Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, PR China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, PR China; Key Laboratory of State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Compatibility Toxicology, Beijing 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing 100191, PR China.
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14
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Chen H, Chai M, Cheng J, Wang Y, Tang Z. Occurrence and health implications of heavy metals in preschool children's clothing manufactured in four Asian regions. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 245:114121. [PMID: 36179449 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.114121] [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: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Clothing may be a potential contributor to body metal burden in children. However, available information on heavy metals in children's clothing is extremely limited and the associated health risks remain poorly understood. This study investigated the concentrations of Pb, Cd, Co, Zn, Cr, As, Cu and Ni in new preschool children's clothing manufactured in four Asian regions. The children's clothing had higher levels of Ni and Cr but lower levels of Pb and Cd in comparison to the concentrations reported in other textile products. The concentrations of Cd were higher in the black clothing than those in the white and color samples. The non-cotton samples contained higher Co concentrations. The Pb concentrations in the samples manufactured in China were significantly higher than those in the other three regions. We estimated the dermal exposure doses for these metals and calculated the associated risks. The results indicated that the health risks from exposure to these metals in the children's clothing were acceptable. However, more research is required to investigate heavy metals and the associated risks in child clothing due to the increasing complexity of their materials and manufacturing processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanzhi Chen
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Miao Chai
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China; Shandong Huankeyuan Environmental Testing Co., Ltd, Jinan 250013, China.
| | - Jiali Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Trace Element Nutrition of the National Health Commission, National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Yuwen Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China; Department of Chemical Engineering, Jingmen Vocational College, Jingmen 448000, China.
| | - Zhenwu Tang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China.
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15
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de Assis Araujo MS, Froes-Asmus CIR, de Figueiredo ND, Camara VM, Luiz RR, Prata-Barbosa A, Martins MM, Jacob SDC, dos Santos LMG, Vicentini Neto SA, de Rezende Filho JF, Amim Junior J. Prenatal Exposure to Metals and Neurodevelopment in Infants at Six Months: Rio Birth Cohort Study of Environmental Exposure and Childhood Development (PIPA Project). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:4295. [PMID: 35409976 PMCID: PMC8998578 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19074295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The PIPA Project is a prospective birth cohort study based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, whose pilot study was carried out between October 2017 and August 2018. Arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg) concentrations were determined in maternal (n = 49) and umbilical cord blood (n = 46). The Denver Developmental Screening Test II (DDST-II) was applied in 50 six-month-old infants. Metals were detected in 100% of the mother and newborn samples above the limits of detection. Maternal blood lead concentrations were higher in premature newborns (GM: 5.72 µg/dL; p = 0.05). One-third of the infants (n = 17-35.4%) exhibited at least one fail in the neurodevelopment evaluation (fail group). Maternal blood arsenic concentrations were significantly (p = 0.03) higher in the "fail group" (GM: 11.85 µg/L) compared to infants who did not fail (not fail group) (GM: 8.47 µg/L). Maternal and umbilical cord blood arsenic concentrations were higher in all Denver Test's domains in the "fail group", albeit non-statistically significant, showing a tendency for the gross motor domain and maternal blood (p = 0.07). These findings indicate the need to further investigate the toxic effects of prenatal exposure to metals on infant neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carmen Ildes Rodrigues Froes-Asmus
- Postgraduate Program in Perinatal Health, Faculty of Medicine, Maternity School of Rio de Janeiro, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22240-000, Brazil; (C.I.R.F.-A.); (N.D.d.F.); (A.P.-B.); (J.F.d.R.F.); (J.A.J.)
| | - Nataly Damasceno de Figueiredo
- Postgraduate Program in Perinatal Health, Faculty of Medicine, Maternity School of Rio de Janeiro, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22240-000, Brazil; (C.I.R.F.-A.); (N.D.d.F.); (A.P.-B.); (J.F.d.R.F.); (J.A.J.)
| | - Volney Magalhães Camara
- Public Health Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-592, Brazil; (V.M.C.); (R.R.L.)
| | - Ronir Raggio Luiz
- Public Health Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-592, Brazil; (V.M.C.); (R.R.L.)
| | - Arnaldo Prata-Barbosa
- Postgraduate Program in Perinatal Health, Faculty of Medicine, Maternity School of Rio de Janeiro, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22240-000, Brazil; (C.I.R.F.-A.); (N.D.d.F.); (A.P.-B.); (J.F.d.R.F.); (J.A.J.)
- D’Or Institute for Research & Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro 22281-100, Brazil
| | - Marlos Melo Martins
- School Maternity Hospital, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22240-000, Brazil;
| | - Silvana do Couto Jacob
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, National Institute of Quality Control in Health, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (S.d.C.J.); (L.M.G.d.S.); (S.A.V.N.)
| | - Lisia Maria Gobbo dos Santos
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, National Institute of Quality Control in Health, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (S.d.C.J.); (L.M.G.d.S.); (S.A.V.N.)
| | - Santos Alves Vicentini Neto
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, National Institute of Quality Control in Health, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil; (S.d.C.J.); (L.M.G.d.S.); (S.A.V.N.)
| | - Jorge Fonte de Rezende Filho
- Postgraduate Program in Perinatal Health, Faculty of Medicine, Maternity School of Rio de Janeiro, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22240-000, Brazil; (C.I.R.F.-A.); (N.D.d.F.); (A.P.-B.); (J.F.d.R.F.); (J.A.J.)
| | - Joffre Amim Junior
- Postgraduate Program in Perinatal Health, Faculty of Medicine, Maternity School of Rio de Janeiro, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22240-000, Brazil; (C.I.R.F.-A.); (N.D.d.F.); (A.P.-B.); (J.F.d.R.F.); (J.A.J.)
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16
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Methylmercury Causes Neurodegeneration and Downregulation of Myelin Basic Protein in the Spinal Cord of Offspring Rats after Maternal Exposure. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073777. [PMID: 35409136 PMCID: PMC8998727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is one of the most dangerous toxic pollutants spread throughout the earth. Chronic MeHg intoxication by contaminated food ingestion is the most common threat to human health, including impairment to the developing fetus. The present study aims at investigating the effects of maternal exposure to MeHg during gestation and lactation on the spinal cord of offspring. Pregnant rats received oral doses of MeHg (40 μg/kg/day) over a period of 42 days (21 gestation and 21 lactation). Control animals received the vehicle only. Total mercury concentration was measured in blood samples from offspring collected at the 41st postnatal day. Counting of motor neurons and immunoreactivity for myelin basic protein (MBP) were assessed in the spinal cords in both control and MeHg-intoxicated animals. Our results showed that MeHg promoted an increase in blood Hg levels. In addition, it caused a reduction in the number of spinal cord motor neurons as well as decreased MBP immunoreactivity in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar segments. Our present findings suggest that MeHg intoxication during rat pregnancy and lactation is associated with a pattern of motor neuron degeneration and downregulation of myelin basic protein in different segments of a developing spinal cord. Further studies are needed to establish the effect of MeHg intoxication in both young and adult rats.
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17
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Prema P, Veeramanikandan V, Rameshkumar K, Gatasheh MK, Hatamleh AA, Balasubramani R, Balaji P. Statistical optimization of silver nanoparticle synthesis by green tea extract and its efficacy on colorimetric detection of mercury from industrial waste water. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 204:111915. [PMID: 34419472 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
For the optimization of silver nanoparticle production, a central composite design was used with three parameters: AgNO3 concentration, green tea extract concentration, and temperature at three different levels. The size of the synthesized silver nanoparticle, its UV absorbance, zeta potential, and polydispersity index were set as the response parameters. Silver nanoparticles obtained in the optimization process were characterized and its efficacy on colorimetric detection of mercury was evaluated. The response variables were significant for the factors analyzed, and each variable had a significant model (P < 0.05). The ideal conditions were: 1 mM AgNO3, 0.5% green tea extract, and 80 °C temperature. To analyze the produced AgNPs under certain ideal conditions, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used. The UV-visible spectra of AgNPs revealed an absorption maxima at 424 nm. The XRD pattern reveals a significant diffraction peak at 38.25°, 44.26°, 64.43°, and 77.49°, which corresponds to the (111), (200), (220), and (311) planes of polycrystalline face-centered cubic (fcc) silver, respectively. The TEM and SEM analyses confirmed that the particles were spherical, and dynamic light scattering study determined the average diameter of AgNPs to be 77.4 nm. The AgNPs have a zeta potential of -62.6 mV, as determined by the zeta sizer analysis. The AgNPs detects mercury at a micromolar concentration. Furthermore, the environmentally friendly generated AgNPs were used to detect mercury in a colorimetric method that was effectively employed for analytical detection of Hg2+ ions in an aqueous environment for the purpose of practical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Prema
- Department of Zoology, V.H.N. Senthikumara Nadar College (Autonomous), Virudhunagar, Tamilnadu, India
| | | | - K Rameshkumar
- Department of Zoology, Vivekananda College (Autonomous), Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mansour K Gatasheh
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashraf Atef Hatamleh
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ravindran Balasubramani
- Department of Environmental Energy & Engineering, Kyonggi University, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 16227, South Korea
| | - P Balaji
- PG and Research Centre in Biotechnology, MGR College, Hosur, India.
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18
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Packull-McCormick S, Ratelle M, Lam C, Napenas J, Bouchard M, Swanson H, Laird BD. Hair to blood mercury concentration ratios and a retrospective hair segmental mercury analysis in the Northwest Territories, Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 203:111800. [PMID: 34364863 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of total mercury were measured in blood and hair samples collected as part of a human biomonitoring project conducted in First Nations communities of the Mackenzie Valley, Northwest Territories, Canada. Hair (n = 443) and blood (n = 276) samples were obtained from six communities in the Dehcho region and three communities in the Sahtú region of the Mackenzie Valley. The aim of this paper was to calculate hair to blood mercury ratios (for matched samples) and determine if: 1) ratios differed significantly between the two regions; 2) ratios differed from the 250:1 ratio proposed by the WHO; and, 3) point estimates of hair to blood mercury ratios could be used to estimate blood mercury concentrations. In addition, this paper aims to determine if there were seasonal patterns in hair mercury concentrations in these regions and if so, if patterns were related to among-season variability in fish consumption. The majority of mercury levels in hair and blood were below relevant health-based guidance values. The geometric mean hair (most recent segment) to blood mercury ratio (stratified by region) was 619:1 for the Dehcho region and 1220:1 for the Sahtú region. Mean log-transformed hair to blood mercury ratios were statistically significantly different between the two regions. Hair to blood ratios calculated in this study were far higher (2-5 times higher) than those typically reported in the literature and there was a large amount of inter-individual variation in calculated ratios (range: 114:1 to 4290:1). Using the 250:1 ratio derived by the World Health Organisation to estimate blood mercury concentrations from hair mercury concentrations would substantially over-estimate blood mercury concentrations in the studied regions. However, geometric mean site-specific hair to blood mercury ratios can provide estimates of measures of central tendency for blood mercury concentrations from hair mercury concentrations at a population level. Mercury concentrations were determined in segments of long hair samples to examine exposure of participants to mercury over the past year. Hair segments were assigned to six time periods and the highest hair mercury concentrations were generally observed in hair segments that aligned with September/October and November/December, whereas the lowest hair mercury concentrations were aligned with March/April and May/June. Mean log-transformed hair mercury concentrations were statistically significantly different between time periods. Between time periods (e.g., September/October vs. March/April), the geometric mean mercury concentration in hair differed by up to 0.22 μg/g, and the upper margins of mercury exposure (e.g., 95th percentile of hair mercury) varied by up to 0.86 μg/g. Results from self-reported fish consumption frequency questionnaires (subset of participants; n = 170) showed total fish intake peaked in late summer, decreased during the winter, and then increased during the spring. Visual assessment of results indicated that mean hair mercury concentrations followed this same seasonal pattern. Results from mixed effects models, however, indicated that variability in hair mercury concentrations among time periods was not best explained by total fish consumption frequency. Instead, seasonal trends in hair mercury concentrations may be more related to the consumption of specific fish species (rather than total wild-harvested fish in general). Future work should examine whether seasonal changes in the consumption of specific fish species are associated with seasonal changes in hair mercury concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Packull-McCormick
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Mylène Ratelle
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Christina Lam
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Jean Napenas
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Michèle Bouchard
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Chair in Toxicological Risk Assessment and Management, Université de Montréal, Roger-Gaudry Building, Room U424, P.O. Box 6128, Main Station, Montreal, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Heidi Swanson
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Brian Douglas Laird
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada.
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19
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Capitão C, Martins R, Santos O, Bicho M, Szigeti T, Katsonouri A, Bocca B, Ruggieri F, Wasowicz W, Tolonen H, Virgolino A. Exposure to heavy metals and red blood cell parameters in children: A systematic review of observational studies. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:921239. [PMID: 36275050 PMCID: PMC9583003 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.921239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mechanistic studies show that heavy metals interfere with the hematopoietic system by inhibiting key enzymes, which could lead to anemia. However, the link between children's exposure and red blood cell (RBC) parameters has been inconsistent. We aimed to summarize evidence on human studies exploring the association between exposure to lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, and chromium VI and RBC parameters in children. METHODS Following the PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for studies published between January 2010 and April 2022. Eligible papers included human observational studies that directly assessed exposure (internal dose) to the heavy metals under study and RBC parameters in participants aged ≤ 18 years. We excluded studies using hospital-based samples. Study quality was assessed using the National Institutes of Health's Quality Assessment Tools for Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies. We synthesized the evidence using vote counting based on the direction of the relationship. RESULTS Out of 6,652 retrieved papers, we included a total of 38 (33 assessing lead, four mercury, two cadmium, and two arsenic; chromium VI was not assessed in any included paper). More than half of the studies were conducted in Asia. We found evidence of a positive relationship between lead concentration and hemoglobin (proportion of studies reporting negative relationships = 0.750; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.583, 0.874) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (0.875; 95% CI 0.546, 0.986), and a positive relationship with red cell distribution width (0.000; 95%CI 0.000, 0.379). When considering only good-quality studies (24% of the Pb studies), only the relationship with hemoglobin levels remained (0.875; 95% CI: 0.546, 0.986). CONCLUSION We found evidence of a negative relationship between lead concentration and hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin and of a positive relationship with red cell distribution width in children. We also identified a need to conduct more studies in European countries. Future studies should use standardized practices and make efforts to increase study quality, namely by conducting comprehensive longitudinal studies. Our findings support the need to take further actions to limit heavy metal exposure during childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Capitão
- Environmental Health Behaviour Lab, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratório Associado TERRA, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Raquel Martins
- Environmental Health Behaviour Lab, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratório Associado TERRA, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Osvaldo Santos
- Environmental Health Behaviour Lab, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratório Associado TERRA, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Unbreakable Idea Research, Cadaval, Portugal
| | - Manuel Bicho
- Laboratório Associado TERRA, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratório de Genética, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto Rocha Cabral, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | | | - Beatrice Bocca
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Ruggieri
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Hanna Tolonen
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ana Virgolino
- Environmental Health Behaviour Lab, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratório Associado TERRA, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
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20
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Manzoor A, Kokab T, Nawab A, Shah A, Siddiqi HM, Iqbal A. Electrochemical detection of mercuric(ii) ions in aqueous media using glassy carbon electrode modified with synthesized tribenzamides and silver nanoparticles. RSC Adv 2022; 12:1682-1693. [PMID: 35425209 PMCID: PMC8978874 DOI: 10.1039/d1ra08517d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reports the synthesis, characterization, and mercuric ion detection ability of novel tribenzamides having flexible and rigid moieties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aalia Manzoor
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Tayyaba Kokab
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Anam Nawab
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Afzal Shah
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | | | - Asma Iqbal
- Department of Chemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Metal Matrix Composites, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
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21
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Malacarne IT, De Souza DV, Alpire MES, Souza ACF, Renno ACM, Ribeiro DA. Is micronucleus assay in oral exfoliated cells a suitable tool for biomonitoring children exposed to environmental pollutants? A systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:65083-65093. [PMID: 34623589 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-16810-1] [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: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this review was to evaluate if micronucleus assay in oral exfoliated cells is a suitable tool for biomonitoring children exposed to environmental pollutants. Through the electronic databases PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science, all published studies until April 2021 that examined the relationship between exposure to environmental pollutants and micronucleus frequency in oral cells were searched. All relevant articles using a combination of the following keywords-"children," "micronucleus," "oral cells," and "environmental pollution"-were considered. A total of 20 papers met the criteria for inclusion in the systematic review. The results regarding the cytogenetic damage induced by environmental pollutants are conflicting. Some authors have demonstrated that environmental pollution induces mutagenesis in oral cells while others did not. Following the parameters of the Project for Effective Public Health Practices (EPHPP) and after extensive reading of all the articles included, a total of 12 articles had moderate and strong scores and 8 had a classification considered weak. Taken together, this review was able to demonstrate the association between micronucleus frequency and exposure to environmental pollutants in oral exfoliated cells of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingra Tais Malacarne
- Institute of Health and Society, Department of Biosciences, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Rua Silva Jardim, 136, Room 332, Vila Mathias, São Paulo, Santos, SP, 11050-020, Brazil
| | - Daniel Vitor De Souza
- Institute of Health and Society, Department of Biosciences, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Rua Silva Jardim, 136, Room 332, Vila Mathias, São Paulo, Santos, SP, 11050-020, Brazil
| | - Maria Esther Suarez Alpire
- Institute of Health and Society, Department of Biosciences, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Rua Silva Jardim, 136, Room 332, Vila Mathias, São Paulo, Santos, SP, 11050-020, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Flygare Souza
- Institute of Health and Society, Department of Biosciences, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Rua Silva Jardim, 136, Room 332, Vila Mathias, São Paulo, Santos, SP, 11050-020, Brazil
| | - Ana Claudia Muniz Renno
- Institute of Health and Society, Department of Biosciences, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Rua Silva Jardim, 136, Room 332, Vila Mathias, São Paulo, Santos, SP, 11050-020, Brazil
| | - Daniel Araki Ribeiro
- Institute of Health and Society, Department of Biosciences, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Rua Silva Jardim, 136, Room 332, Vila Mathias, São Paulo, Santos, SP, 11050-020, Brazil.
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22
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Association of Blood Mercury Levels with the Risks of Overweight and High Waist-to-Height Ratio in Children and Adolescents: Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:children8121087. [PMID: 34943283 PMCID: PMC8700710 DOI: 10.3390/children8121087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
A previous study in adults demonstrated the substantial role of mercury exposure in the development of overweight and obesity. Although children and adolescents are more susceptible to the toxic effects of mercury than adults, studies on the association of overweight and obesity with mercury exposure is limited. This study aimed to investigate the association of blood mercury levels with the body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) as obesity indices in Korean children and adolescents. The analyzed cross-sectional data were obtained from 1327 participants (age: 10–18 years; 672 male and 655 female) who completed the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010–2013. The covariates included sociodemographic factors (age, sex, and household income), dietary factors (fish, shellfish, and seaweed consumption), lifestyle factors (alcohol consumption, smoking status, and exercise), and blood hematocrit levels. The adjusted geometric mean blood mercury level was 2.19 µg/L, and the level of mercury was significantly higher in the overweight (BMI ≥ 85th gender and age-specific percentiles) and high WHtR (cutoff: ≥0.5) groups than in the normal group. In all the participants, the blood mercury levels were significantly positively associated with the BMI and WHtR after adjusting for all covariates (p < 0.05). All the participants in the highest blood mercury level quartile were at a higher risk for overweight and a high WHtR than those in the lowest quartile after adjusting for all covariates (p < 0.05). Our study suggests a significant association between mercury exposure and the risks of overweight and high WHtR in Korean children and adolescents.
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23
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Kempton JW, Périssé ARS, Hofer CB, de Vasconcellos ACS, de Sousa Viana PV, de Oliveira Lima M, de Jesus IM, de Souza Hacon S, Basta PC. An Assessment of Health Outcomes and Methylmercury Exposure in Munduruku Indigenous Women of Childbearing Age and Their Children under 2 Years Old. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:10091. [PMID: 34639393 PMCID: PMC8508331 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In line with the 1000-day initiative and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2 and 3, we present a cross-sectional analysis of maternal health, infant nutrition, and methylmercury exposure within hard-to-reach indigenous communities in the state of Pará, Brazilian Amazon. We collected data from all women of childbearing age (i.e., 12-49) and their infants under two years old in three Munduruku communities (Sawré Muybu, Sawré Aboy, and Poxo Muybu) along the Tapajos River. We explored health outcomes through interviews, vaccine coverage and clinical assessment, and determined baseline hair methylmercury (H-Hg) levels. Hemoglobin, infant growth (Anthropometric Z scores) and neurodevelopment tests results were collected. We found that 62% of women of childbearing age exceeded the reference limit of 6.0 μg/g H-Hg (median = 7.115, IQR = 4.678), with the worst affected community (Sawré Aboy) registering an average H-Hg concentration of 12.67 μg/g. Half of infants aged under 24 months presented with anemia. Three of 16 (18.8%) infants presented H-Hg levels above 6.0 µg/g (median: 3.88; IQR = 3.05). Four of the 16 infants were found to be stunted and 38% of women overweight, evidencing possible nutritional transition. No infant presented with appropriate vaccination coverage for their age. These communities presented with an estimated Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) of 86.7/1000 live births. The highest H-Hg level (19.6 µg/g) was recorded in an 11-month-old girl who was found to have gross motor delay and anemia. This already vulnerable indigenous Munduruku community presents with undernutrition and a high prevalence of chronic methylmercury exposure in women of childbearing age. This dual public health crisis in the context of wider health inequalities has the potential to compromise the development, health and survival of the developing fetus and infant in the first two critical years of life. We encourage culturally sensitive intervention and further research to focus efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - André Reynaldo Santos Périssé
- Departamento de Endemias Samuel Pessoa, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (ENSP/Fiocruz), Rua Leopoldo Bulhões, 1480, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21041-210, Brazil; (A.R.S.P.); (S.d.S.H.)
| | - Cristina Barroso Hofer
- Instituto de Pediatria e Puericultura Martagão Gesteira, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rua Bruno Lobo, 50, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro 21941-912, Brazil;
| | - Ana Claudia Santiago de Vasconcellos
- Laboratório de Educação Profissional em Vigilância em Saúde, Escola Politécnica de Saúde Joaquim Venân-cio, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (EPSJV/Fiocruz), Av. Brasil, 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil;
| | - Paulo Victor de Sousa Viana
- Centro de Referência Professor Hélio Fraga, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (CRPHF/ENSP/Fiocruz), Estrada de Curicica, 2000, Curicica, Rio de Janeiro 22780-195, Brazil;
| | - Marcelo de Oliveira Lima
- Seção de Meio Ambiente, Instituto Evandro Chagas, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Ministério da Saúde (SEAMB/IEC/SVS/MS), Rodovia BR-316 km 7 s/n, Levilândia 67030-000, Brazil; (M.d.O.L.); (I.M.d.J.)
| | - Iracina Maura de Jesus
- Seção de Meio Ambiente, Instituto Evandro Chagas, Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Ministério da Saúde (SEAMB/IEC/SVS/MS), Rodovia BR-316 km 7 s/n, Levilândia 67030-000, Brazil; (M.d.O.L.); (I.M.d.J.)
| | - Sandra de Souza Hacon
- Departamento de Endemias Samuel Pessoa, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (ENSP/Fiocruz), Rua Leopoldo Bulhões, 1480, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21041-210, Brazil; (A.R.S.P.); (S.d.S.H.)
| | - Paulo Cesar Basta
- Departamento de Endemias Samuel Pessoa, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (ENSP/Fiocruz), Rua Leopoldo Bulhões, 1480, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21041-210, Brazil; (A.R.S.P.); (S.d.S.H.)
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Vogel N, Murawski A, Schmied-Tobies MIH, Rucic E, Doyle U, Kämpfe A, Höra C, Hildebrand J, Schäfer M, Drexler H, Göen T, Kolossa-Gehring M. Lead, cadmium, mercury, and chromium in urine and blood of children and adolescents in Germany - Human biomonitoring results of the German Environmental Survey 2014-2017 (GerES V). Int J Hyg Environ Health 2021; 237:113822. [PMID: 34454255 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2021.113822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Metals reach humans through food and drinking water intake and inhalation of airborne particles and can have detrimental health effects in particular for children. The metals presented here (lead, cadmium, chromium, and mercury) could lead to toxic effects such as neurotoxicity, mutagenicity, and have been classified as (possible) carcinogens. Using population representative data from the German Environmental Survey 2014-2017 (GerES V) from 3- to 17-year-old children on lead and cadmium in blood (n = 720) and on cadmium, chromium, and mercury in urine (n = 2250) we describe current internal exposure levels, and socio-demographic and substance-specific exposure determinants. Average internal exposure (geometric means) in blood was 9.47 μg/L for lead and below 0.06 μg/L (limit of quantification) for cadmium, and in urine 0.072 μg/L for cadmium, 0.067 μg/L for mercury, and 0.393 μg/L for chromium, respectively. Younger children have higher concentrations of lead and chromium compared to 14-17-year-old adolescents, and boys have slightly higher mercury concentrations than girls. With respect to substance specific determinants, higher lead concentrations emerged in participants with domestic fuel and in non-smoking children with smokers in the household, higher levels of cadmium were associated with smoking and vegetarian diet and higher levels of mercury with the consumption of seafood and amalgam teeth fillings. No specific exposure determinants emerged for chromium. The health based guidance value HBM-I was not exceeded for mercury and for cadmium in urine it was exceeded by 0.6% of the study population. None of the exceedances was related to substantial tobacco smoke exposure. Comparisons to previous GerES cycles (GerES II, 1990-1992; GerES IV, 2003-2006) indicate continuously lower levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Vogel
- German Environment Agency (UBA); Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06844, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany.
| | - Aline Murawski
- German Environment Agency (UBA); Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06844, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | | | - Enrico Rucic
- German Environment Agency (UBA); Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06844, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Ulrike Doyle
- German Environment Agency (UBA); Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06844, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Alexander Kämpfe
- German Environment Agency (UBA); Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06844, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Christian Höra
- German Environment Agency (UBA); Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06844, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Jörg Hildebrand
- IPASUM - Institute and Outpatient Clinic of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine; Henkestrasse 9-11, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Moritz Schäfer
- IPASUM - Institute and Outpatient Clinic of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine; Henkestrasse 9-11, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hans Drexler
- IPASUM - Institute and Outpatient Clinic of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine; Henkestrasse 9-11, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thomas Göen
- IPASUM - Institute and Outpatient Clinic of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine; Henkestrasse 9-11, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
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25
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The effects of the exposure to neurotoxic elements on Italian schoolchildren behavior. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9898. [PMID: 33972598 PMCID: PMC8110539 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88969-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders are constantly increasing on a global scale. Some elements like heavy metals are known to be neurotoxic. In this cross-sectional study we assessed the neurobehavioral effect of the exposure to trace elements including lead, mercury, cadmium, manganese, arsenic and selenium and their interactions among 299 schoolchildren residing in the heavily polluted Taranto area in Italy. Whole blood, urine and hair were collected for metal analyses, while the Child Behavior Checklist and the Social Responsiveness Scale, administered to the main teacher and the mothers were considered to identify behavioral problems in children. Blood lead mainly influenced social problems, aggressive behavior, externalizing and total problems. Urinary arsenic showed an impact on anxiety and depression, somatic problems, attention problems and rule breaking behavior. A significant interaction between lead and arsenic was observed, with a synergistic effect of the two metals increasing the risk of attention problems, aggressive behavior, externalizing problems and total problems. Overall, we were able to test that higher blood lead, urinary arsenic concentrations and their interaction increase the risk of neurobehavioral problems. This is in line with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s priority list of hazardous substances where arsenic and lead are ranked as first and second respectively.
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Du B, Li P, Feng X, Yin R, Zhou J, Maurice L. Monthly variations in mercury exposure of school children and adults in an industrial area of southwestern China. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 196:110362. [PMID: 33169691 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that rice consumption can be the major pathway for human methylmercury (MeHg) exposure in inland China. However, few studies have considered the susceptible population of school children's exposure through rice ingestion. In this study, monthly variations in total Hg (THg)/MeHg concentrations in rice, fish, hair, and urine samples were studied to evaluate the Hg (both THg and MeHg) exposure in Guiyang, a typical industrial area with high anthropogenic emission of Hg. A total of 17 primary school (school A) students, 29 middle school (school B) students, and 46 guardians participated in this study for one year. Hair THg, hair MeHg, and urine THg concentrations ranged from 355-413 ng g-1, 213-236 ng g-1, and 469-518 ng g-1 Creatinine (ng·g-1 Cr), respectively, and no significant differences were observed between different genders and age groups. Hair and urine Hg concentrations showed slightly higher values in the cold season (October to February) than the hot season (March to September), but without significant difference. High monthly variability of individual hair and urine Hg concentrations suggested that long-term study could effectively decrease the uncertainty. The school students showed significantly higher urine THg concentrations than adults due to children's unique physiological structure and behaviors. Probable daily intake (PDI) of MeHg via rice and fish ingestion averaged at 0.0091, 0.0090, and 0.0079 μg kg-1 d-1 for school A students, school B students, and their guardians, respectively, which means that 86%, 84%, and 87% of the PDI were originated from rice ingestion, respectively. Therefore, more attention should be paid to children as a susceptible population. The results indicated low risk of Hg exposure via rice and fish consumption for urban residents in a Chinese industrial city.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buyun Du
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang, 550081, China; Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Ping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang, 550081, China.
| | - Xinbin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang, 550081, China.
| | - Runsheng Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Ore Deposit Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang, 550081, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Laurence Maurice
- Observatoire Midi-Pyrénées, Laboratoire Géosciences Environnement Toulouse, IRD-CNRS-Université Toulouse, 14 Avenue Edouard Belin, Toulouse, 31400, France
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27
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Dórea JG. Exposure to environmental neurotoxic substances and neurodevelopment in children from Latin America and the Caribbean. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 192:110199. [PMID: 32941839 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Environmental (and occupational) exposure to neurotoxic substances is a worldwide problem that can affect children's neurodevelopment (ND). In Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries there are over 300 million children living under the threat of neurodevelopmental delays due to toxic environmental exposure. Large industrial centers, intense mining and agricultural activities, along with changing complex ecosystems constitute a mosaic that drives contamination of air, water and the food chain. Neurotoxic contaminants such as pesticides (organochlorines, organophosphates, carbamates, pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, and manganese fungicides), chemicals of industrial use (phthalates), and metals (Hg, Pb, Al, As, F, Cd, Mo, Mn) are at the center of environmental exposure studies. Exposure to neurotoxic substances singly or in combination with other compounds or socioeconomic stressors (maternal education, socio-economic and nutritional status) intertwined with occupational and para-occupational exposure can affect ND (motor, cognition, behavior) of children. Significant negative effects of pesticides and neurotoxic elements on ND were found in all studied countries, affecting especially the less-privileged children from laboring families. Studies showed that exposures to the neurotoxicants in human milk are secondary to their more lasting effects during prenatal exposure. This review integrates exposure (prenatal and breastfeeding), metabolism, and ND effects of neurotoxicants. It highlights the overwhelming evidence showing that current levels of exposures are hazardous and detrimental to children's ND in LAC countries. The evidence indicates that a reduction in neurotoxicant exposure is essential to protect children's ND. Therefore, it is urgent to adopt policies and actions that prevent and remediate region-specific children's ND issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- José G Dórea
- Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, 70919-970, DF, Brazil.
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Astolfi ML, Vitali M, Marconi E, Martellucci S, Mattei V, Canepari S, Protano C. Urinary Mercury Levels and Predictors of Exposure among a Group of Italian Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17249225. [PMID: 33321748 PMCID: PMC7763174 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17249225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Urinary mercury (Hg) levels are suitable to assess long-term exposure to both elemental and inorganic Hg. In this study, the urinary Hg levels of 250 children (aged 6–11 years) from three areas with different anthropogenic impacts in the Rieti province, central Italy, were assessed. The Hg concentrations were in the range of 0.04–2.18 µg L−1 with a geometric mean equal to 0.18 µg L−1 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.17–0.20 µg L−1] or 0.21 µg g−1 creatinine (95% CI, 0.19–0.23 µg g−1 creatinine), and a reference value calculated as 95th percentile of 0.53 µg L−1 (95% CI, 0.44–0.73 µg L−1) or 0.55 µg g−1 creatinine (95% CI, 0.50–0.83 µg g−1 creatinine). In all cases, urinary Hg data were below the HBM-I values (7 µg L−1 or 5 µg g−1 creatinine) established for urine, while the 95th percentile was above the German Human Biomonitoring Commission’s RV95 (0.4 µg L−1) set for children without amalgam fillings. A significant correlation (p < 0.05) was found between creatinine-corrected results and residence area, with higher urinary Hg levels in children living in the industrial area. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that creatinine was the main predictor of urinary Hg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa Astolfi
- Department of Chemistry, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-4991-3384
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.V.); (E.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Elisabetta Marconi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.V.); (E.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Stefano Martellucci
- Biomedicine and Advanced Technologies Rieti Center, “Sabina Universitas”, 02100 Rieti, Italy; (S.M.); (V.M.)
| | - Vincenzo Mattei
- Biomedicine and Advanced Technologies Rieti Center, “Sabina Universitas”, 02100 Rieti, Italy; (S.M.); (V.M.)
| | - Silvia Canepari
- Department of Chemistry, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (M.V.); (E.M.); (C.P.)
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29
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Astolfi ML, Pietris G, Mazzei C, Marconi E, Canepari S. Element Levels and Predictors of Exposure in the Hair of Ethiopian Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17228652. [PMID: 33233360 PMCID: PMC7700284 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Children's development and health may be affected by toxic heavy metal exposure or suboptimal essential element intake. This study aimed to provide updated information regarding the concentrations of 41 elements in children's hair (aged under 18) living in a rural area of the Benishangul-Gumuz region, Ethiopia. The highest average levels (as a geometric mean) for toxic heavy metals were obtained for Al (1 mg kg-1), Pb (3.1 mg kg-1), and Ni (1.2 mg kg-1), while the lowest concentrations among the essential elements were found for Co (0.32 mg kg-1), Mo (0.07 mg kg-1), Se (0.19 mg kg-1), and V (0.8 mg kg-1). Hair analysis was combined with a survey to evaluate relationships and variations among subgroups and potential metal exposure predictors. Females showed significantly higher concentrations for most hair elements, excluding Zn, than males, and the 6-11 years age group reported the highest levels for Be, Ce, Co, Fe, La, Li, Mo, and Na. The main predictors of exposure to toxic elements were fish consumption for Hg and drinking water for Ba, Be, Cs, Li, Ni, Tl, and U. The data from this study can be used to develop prevention strategies for children's health and protection in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa Astolfi
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-064-991-3384
| | - Georgios Pietris
- Department of General Surgery, Thoracic Diseases General Hospital Sotiria of Athens, Mesogion 152, 115 27 Athens, Greece;
| | - Corrado Mazzei
- Canon Toshiba Medical Systems s.r.l., Via Canton 115, I-00144 Rome, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Marconi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Silvia Canepari
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy;
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de Figueiredo ND, Araújo MS, Luiz RR, de Magalhaes Câmara V, do Couto Jacob S, Dos Santos LMG, Vicentini SA, Asmus CIRF. Metal mixtures in pregnant women and umbilical cord blood at urban populations-Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:40210-40218. [PMID: 32661970 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10021-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to assess interrelationships between serum lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg) concentrations in pregnant women in their third trimester and umbilical cord blood, while inter-metal correlations were also determined. This study is part of the PIPA project (Childhood and Environmental Pollutant Project), whose pilot study was carried out from October 2017 to August 2018 and will be presented here. Blood samples were obtained from 117 mother-umbilical cord pairs and analyzed concerning metal concentrations. A positive correlation was found between metal concentrations in mother and cord blood (R > 0.7, p < 0.001). The results indicate that mother metal concentrations are able to determine child metal concentrations (p < 0.001). The correlations between maternal blood metal concentrations were positive for all assessed metals except for As and Hg. The strongest correlations in this matrix were observed between Cd and Pb (R = 0.471 p = 0.000), Cd and Hg (R = 0.425 p = 0.000), and Pb and Hg (R = 0.427 p = 0.000). Umbilical cord correlations were lower compared to mother blood correlations. In general, the four analyzed metals displayed significant correlations to serum concentrations in both maternal and cord blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Damasceno de Figueiredo
- Public Health Institute (IESC), School of Medicina, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Maternity School, School of Medicina, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Monica Seefelder Araújo
- Public Health Institute (IESC), School of Medicina, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ronir R Luiz
- Public Health Institute (IESC), School of Medicina, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Volney de Magalhaes Câmara
- Public Health Institute (IESC), School of Medicina, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Silvana do Couto Jacob
- Chemistry Department, National Institute of Quality Control in Health (INCQS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lisia Maria Gobbo Dos Santos
- Chemistry Department, National Institute of Quality Control in Health (INCQS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Santos Alves Vicentini
- Chemistry Department, National Institute of Quality Control in Health (INCQS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carmen Ildes Rodrigues Froes Asmus
- Public Health Institute (IESC), School of Medicina, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Maternity School, School of Medicina, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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31
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Chang LS, Yan JH, Li JY, Yeter DD, Huang YH, Guo MMH, Lo MH, Kuo HC. Blood Mercury Levels in Children with Kawasaki Disease and Disease Outcome. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17103726. [PMID: 32466179 PMCID: PMC7277186 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17103726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The risk of ethnic Kawasaki disease (KD) has been proposed to be associated with blood mercury levels in American children. We investigated the blood levels of mercury in children with KD and their association with disease outcome. The mercury levels demonstrated a significantly negative correlation with sodium levels (p = 0.007). However, data failed to reach a significant difference after excluding the child with blood mercury exceeding the toxic value. The findings indicate that KD patients with lower sodium concentrations had a remarkably higher proportion of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance (p = 0.022). Our patients who had lower mercury levels (<0.5 μg/L) had more changes in bacille Calmette-Guerin. Mercury levels in 14/14 patients with coronary artery lesions and 4/4 patients with IVIG resistance were all measured to have values greater than 1 μg/L (while average values showed 0.92 μg/L in Asian American children). Mercury levels had no correlations with IVIG resistance or coronary artery lesion (CAL) formation (p > 0.05). CAL development was more common in the incomplete group than in the complete KD group (p = 0.019). In this first report about mercury levels in KD patients, we observed that the juvenile Taiwanese had higher mercury concentration in blood compared to other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Sai Chang
- Department of Pediatrics and Kawasaki Disease Center, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan; (L.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (M.M.-H.G.); (M.-H.L.)
| | - Jia-Huei Yan
- Department of Pediatrics, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi 613016, Taiwan;
| | - Jin-Yu Li
- Beijing Institute of Technology, School of Life Science, Beijing 100081, China;
| | - Deniz Des Yeter
- KU School of Nursing, Nursing Associate Tech Adult Inpatient Psych KU Strawberry Hill Campus, Kansas City, KS 66101, USA;
| | - Ying-Hsien Huang
- Department of Pediatrics and Kawasaki Disease Center, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan; (L.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (M.M.-H.G.); (M.-H.L.)
| | - Mindy Ming-Huey Guo
- Department of Pediatrics and Kawasaki Disease Center, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan; (L.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (M.M.-H.G.); (M.-H.L.)
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan
| | - Mao-Hung Lo
- Department of Pediatrics and Kawasaki Disease Center, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan; (L.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (M.M.-H.G.); (M.-H.L.)
| | - Ho-Chang Kuo
- Department of Pediatrics and Kawasaki Disease Center, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 83301, Taiwan; (L.-S.C.); (Y.-H.H.); (M.M.-H.G.); (M.-H.L.)
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung City 83301, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
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32
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Chen R, Xu Y, Xu C, Shu Y, Ma S, Lu C, Mo X. Associations between mercury exposure and the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in US adolescents. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:31384-31391. [PMID: 31473923 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-06224-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Little is known regarding the effects of environmental mercury (Hg) exposure on liver dysfunction in adolescents. We aimed to explore the association between Hg exposure and the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the adolescent population. The cross-sectional associations between blood Hg concentrations and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, a surrogate for suspected NAFLD, were evaluated using data from adolescents (aged 12-17 years old) who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 1999-2014. A final sample of 6389 adolescents was analysed. Elevated ALT was defined as > 25 IU/L and > 22 IU/L for boys and girls ≤ 17 years old, respectively. Odds ratios (ORs) of Hg levels in association with serum ALT levels were estimated using a logistic regression after adjusting for gender, age, ethnicity, serum cotinine, body mass index, the poverty income ratio, and NHANES cycles. The median blood Hg level was 0.73 ± 0.91 μg/L amongst US adolescents. In the adjusted model, the ORs of elevated ALT levels of those in the 4th quartile were higher amongst non-Hispanic white adolescents (OR = 1.76, 95% CI 1.20, 2.59; P = 0.035) and those who were normal or underweight (OR = 1.41, 95% CI 1.08, 1.85; P = 0.020). No association was observed for the other variables. Our results indicate that the positive association between blood Hg exposure and the risk of NAFLD in US adolescents is the highest amongst non-Hispanic white and those who are normal or underweight, regardless of ethnicity. More research is necessary to confirm this association and to clarify the potential mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runsen Chen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Cheng Xu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yaqin Shu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Siyu Ma
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Changgui Lu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuming Mo
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China.
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Lucchini RG, Guazzetti S, Renzetti S, Conversano M, Cagna G, Fedrighi C, Giorgino A, Peli M, Placidi D, Zoni S, Forte G, Majorani C, Pino A, Senofonte O, Petrucci F, Alimonti A. Neurocognitive impact of metal exposure and social stressors among schoolchildren in Taranto, Italy. Environ Health 2019; 18:67. [PMID: 31324194 PMCID: PMC6642538 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-019-0505-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metal exposure is a public health hazard due to neurocognitive effects starting in early life. Poor socio-economic status, adverse home and family environment can enhance the neurodevelopmental toxicity due to chemical exposure. Disadvantaged socio-economic conditions are generally higher in environmentally impacted areas although the combined effect of these two factors has not been sufficiently studied. METHODS The effect of co-exposure to neurotoxic metals including arsenic, cadmium, manganese, mercury, lead, selenium, and to socio-economic stressors was assessed in a group of 299 children aged 6-12 years, residing at incremental distance from industrial emissions in Taranto, Italy. Exposure was assessed with biological monitoring and the distance between the home address and the exposure point source. Children's cognitive functions were examined using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) and the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB). Linear mixed models were chosen to assess the association between metal exposure, socio-economic status and neurocognitive outcomes. RESULTS Urinary arsenic, cadmium and hair manganese resulted inversely related to the distance from the industrial emission source (β - 0.04; 95% CI -0.06, - 0.01; β - 0.02; 95% CI -0.05, - 0.001; β - 0.02 95% CI -0.05, - 0.003) while the WISC intellectual quotient and its sub-scores (except processing speed index) showed a positive association with distance. Blood lead and urinary cadmium were negatively associated with the IQ total score and all sub-scores, although not reaching the significance level. Hair manganese and blood lead was positively associated with the CANTAB between errors of spatial working memory (β 2.2; 95% CI 0.3, 3.9) and the reaction time of stop signal task (β 0.05; 95% CI 0.02, 0.1) respectively. All the other CANTAB neurocognitive tests did not show to be significantly influenced by metal exposure. The highest socio-economic status showed about five points intellectual quotient more than the lowest level on average (β 4.8; 95% CI 0.3, 9.6); the interaction term between blood lead and the socio-economic status showed a significant negative impact of lead on working memory at the lowest socio-economic status level (β - 4.0; 95% CI -6.9, - 1.1). CONCLUSIONS Metal exposure and the distance from industrial emission was associated with negative cognitive impacts in these children. Lead exposure had neurocognitive effect even at very low levels of blood lead concentration when socio-economic status is low, and this should further address the importance and prioritize preventive and regulatory interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto G Lucchini
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
- Department of Occupational Health, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Guazzetti
- Department of Occupational Health, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Public Health, Azienda USL - IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Stefano Renzetti
- Department of Occupational Health, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy.
| | | | - Giuseppa Cagna
- Department of Occupational Health, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Chiara Fedrighi
- Department of Occupational Health, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Marco Peli
- Department of Occupational Health, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Donatella Placidi
- Department of Occupational Health, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Silvia Zoni
- Department of Occupational Health, University of Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili, 1, 25123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Forte
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Costanza Majorani
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Pino
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Oreste Senofonte
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Petrucci
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Alimonti
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
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Hessabi M, Rahbar MH, Dobrescu I, Bach MA, Kobylinska L, Bressler J, Grove ML, Loveland KA, Mihailescu I, Nedelcu MC, Moisescu MG, Matei BM, Matei CO, Rad F. Concentrations of Lead, Mercury, Arsenic, Cadmium, Manganese, and Aluminum in Blood of Romanian Children Suspected of Having Autism Spectrum Disorder. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E2303. [PMID: 31261817 PMCID: PMC6651707 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16132303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), and aluminum (Al) has been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We conducted a pilot study during May 2015-May 2107 to estimate blood concentrations of six metals (Pb, Hg, As, Cd, Mn, and Al) and identify their associated factors for children with ASD or suspected of having ASD in Romania. Sixty children, age 2-8 years, were administered versions of ADOS or ADI-R translated from English to Romanian. After assessment, 2-3 mL of blood was obtained and analyzed for the concentrations of the six metals. The mean age of children was 51.9 months and about 90% were male. More than half (65%) of the children were born in Bucharest. Over 90% of concentrations of As and Cd were below limits of detection. Geometric mean concentrations of Pb, Mn, Al, and Hg were 1.14 μg/dL, 10.84 μg/L, 14.44 μg/L, and 0.35 μg/L, respectively. Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that children who were female, had less educated parents, exhibited pica, and ate cold breakfast (e.g., cereal), watermelon, and lamb had significantly higher concentrations of Pb compared to their respective referent categories (all p < 0.05 except for eating lamb, which was marginally significant, p = 0.053). Although this is the first study that provides data on concentrations of the six metals for Romanian children with ASD, the findings from this study could be useful for designing future epidemiologic studies for investigating the role of these six metals in ASD in Romanian children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manouchehr Hessabi
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mohammad H Rahbar
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Division of Clinical and Translational Sciences, Department of Internal Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Iuliana Dobrescu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Carol Davila, Psychiatry Clinical Hospital Alexandru Obregia, Bucharest, sector 4, 041914, Romania
| | - MacKinsey A Bach
- Biostatistics/Epidemiology/Research Design (BERD) core, Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (CCTS), The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Liana Kobylinska
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Carol Davila, Psychiatry Clinical Hospital Alexandru Obregia, Bucharest, sector 4, 041914, Romania
| | - Jan Bressler
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Megan L Grove
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Human Genetics Center, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Katherine A Loveland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Ilinca Mihailescu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Carol Davila, Psychiatry Clinical Hospital Alexandru Obregia, Bucharest, sector 4, 041914, Romania
| | - Maria Cristina Nedelcu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Carol Davila, Psychiatry Clinical Hospital Alexandru Obregia, Bucharest, sector 4, 041914, Romania
| | - Mihaela Georgeta Moisescu
- Department of Biophysics and Cellular Biotechnology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Carol Davila, Bucharest, sector 5, 050747, Romania
| | - Bogdan Mircea Matei
- Department of Biophysics and Cellular Biotechnology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Carol Davila, Bucharest, sector 5, 050747, Romania
| | - Christien Oktaviani Matei
- Department of Biophysics and Cellular Biotechnology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Carol Davila, Bucharest, sector 5, 050747, Romania
| | - Florina Rad
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Carol Davila, Psychiatry Clinical Hospital Alexandru Obregia, Bucharest, sector 4, 041914, Romania.
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Ruggieri F, Alimonti A, Bena A, Pino A, Orengia M, Farina E, Salamina G, Procopio E, Gandini M, Cadum E, Bocca B. Human biomonitoring health surveillance for metals near a waste-to-energy incinerator: The 1-year post-operam study. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 225:839-848. [PMID: 30904764 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This human biomonitoring (HBM) follow-up survey, within the SPoTT project, assessed the temporal and spatial trends of exposure to 18 metals in a cohort living around the waste-to-energy (WTE) incinerator of Turin (Italy) before (T0, 2013) and after 1-year of plant activity (T1, 2014). Urine of 380 adult individuals (186 exposed and 194 unexposed subjects, classified on fallout maps) were analyzed by sector field inductively coupled mass spectrometry. A decrease trend of the majority of metals in all subjects indicates that the overall air quality of the studied sites was not significantly compromised, also in proximity of the WTE plant, as corroborated also by air monitoring data of the regional agency. The only relevant exception was the higher Cr levels found at T1 than T0 in exposed subjects, suggesting a possible contribution from the WTE plant. Chromium, Mn and Pt urine levels were also higher in the site far from the WTE, in relation to other sources as vehicular traffic, industrial and civil activities. Whilst, As and Cd were influenced by fish intake and tobacco smoke. A very small number of individuals at T1, equally distributed in both areas, exceeded the health-based guidance values and so, at current knowledge, living near the Turin incineration did not significantly influence the exposure status of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Ruggieri
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Alimonti
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Bena
- Department of Epidemiology, ASLTO3, Via Sabaudia 164, Grugliasco, Turin, Italy
| | - Anna Pino
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Orengia
- Department of Epidemiology, ASLTO3, Via Sabaudia 164, Grugliasco, Turin, Italy
| | - Elena Farina
- Department of Epidemiology, ASLTO3, Via Sabaudia 164, Grugliasco, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Salamina
- Department of Prevention, ASLTO1, Via della Consolata 10, Turin, Italy
| | - Enrico Procopio
- Department of Prevention, ASLTO3, Piazza San Francesco 4, Susa, Turin, Italy
| | - Martina Gandini
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Regional Environmental Protection Agency, Via Pio VII 9, Turin, Italy
| | - Ennio Cadum
- Department of Hygiene and Health Prevention, Environmental Health Unit, ATS Pavia, Italy
| | - Beatrice Bocca
- Department of Environment and Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy.
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Budnik LT, Casteleyn L. Mercury pollution in modern times and its socio-medical consequences. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 654:720-734. [PMID: 30448663 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.10.408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Mercury plays a critical role in serious health problems due to environmental or occupational exposures. Aquatic ecosystems are an essential component of the global biogeochemical cycle of mercury, as inorganic mercury can be converted to toxic methyl mercury in these environments and reemissions of elemental mercury rival anthropogenic mercury releases on a global scale. The history of the Minamata disease, a typical example of industrial pollution, has shown how corporate secrecy and ignorance on part of the health authorities may influence the devastating spread of environmental contamination and the progress of disease. While the Minamata Convention, in place since 2017, is aiming to lower mercury exposure and to prevent adverse effects, there are still knowledge gaps in the areas of global environmental mercury exposure. Areas of uncertainty in the global biogeochemical cycle of mercury include oxidation processes in the atmosphere, land-atmosphere and ocean-atmosphere cycling, and methylation processes in the ocean. Pollution related to climate change (especially in boreal and arctic regions), bioaccumulation and biomagnification of methyl mercury in the food chain, especially in fish and marine mammals, needs to be addressed in more detail. Information is lacking on numerous hidden contaminant exposures i.e. from globally applied traditional medicine, mercury containing skin creams and soaps, dental amalgam, ethyl mercury containing vaccines and latex paint additives, as well as on mercury releases from power plants, e-waste/fluorescent lamps, wildfire emissions, and global artisanal small-scale gold mining activities. Mercury occurs in various forms with different levels of toxicity. While much is already known and documented on the health effects of mercury, present knowledge and translation into preventive actions is still incomplete. Risks for long term health effects trough prolonged low dose exposure and trough cumulative exposures of various mercury forms should be further addressed. Preventive actions should include adequate human biomonitoring programs. Research data should be translated swiftly into management tools for local policy makers and health professionals, also paying attention at the major differences in mercury contamination across the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lygia Therese Budnik
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, Translational Toxicology and Immunology Unit, Hamburg, Germany.
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Gallego-Viñas G, Ballester F, Llop S. Chronic mercury exposure and blood pressure in children and adolescents: a systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:2238-2252. [PMID: 30519915 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-3796-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to systematically review the scientific literature on the possible relation of chronic mercury exposure and blood pressure among children and adolescents. We searched for observational studies in 6 electronic databases and grey literature for English, French or Spanish language studies published up to 30th November 2017. We performed a quality assessment of primary studies. We identified 8 articles involving 5 cohorts, 1 cross-sectional study and 1 case-control study. The participants had mean ages of between 3 and 17 years. Mercury was analysed in different matrices and periods of exposure. Four articles evaluated prenatal exposure, 2 evaluated both prenatal and postnatal exposures and 2 postnatal exposure. Blood pressure was measured according to different protocols. The association between mercury and blood pressure was adjusted by different covariates in each study. Four articles found a positive significant association between chronic mercury exposure and blood pressure in children or adolescents. Among these 4 articles, three of them evaluated prenatal exposure. There are still few studies assessing chronic mercury exposure and blood pressure in children and adolescents with inconsistency in results. Designs are very heterogeneous, which hampers their comparability. Evidence of this association is scarce and further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gema Gallego-Viñas
- Conselleria de Sanitat Universal i Salut Pública, Generalitat Valenciana, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ferran Ballester
- FISABIO-UJI-Universitat de València Joint Research Unit in Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Valencia, Spain
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Nursing Department, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Sabrina Llop
- FISABIO-UJI-Universitat de València Joint Research Unit in Epidemiology and Environmental Health, Valencia, Spain.
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research in the Valencian Region, FISABIO-Public Health, Avda. Catalunya 21, 46020, Valencia, Spain.
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Oliveira CS, Nogara PA, Ardisson-Araújo DMP, Aschner M, Rocha JBT, Dórea JG. Neurodevelopmental Effects of Mercury. ADVANCES IN NEUROTOXICOLOGY 2018; 2:27-86. [PMID: 32346667 PMCID: PMC7188190 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ant.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The toxicology of mercury (Hg) is of concern since this metal is ubiquitously distributed in the environment, and living organisms are routinely exposed to Hg at low to high levels. The toxic effects of Hg are well studied and it is known that they may differ depending on the Hg chemical species. In this chapter, we emphasize the neurotoxic effects of Hg during brain development. The immature brain is more susceptible to Hg exposure, since all the Hg chemical forms, not only the organic ones, can harm it. The possible consequences of Hg exposure during the early stages of development, the additive effects with other co-occurring neurotoxicants, and the known mechanisms of action and targets will be addressed in this chapter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia S Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Pablo A Nogara
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Daniel M P Ardisson-Araújo
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
- Laboratório de Virologia de Insetos, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, NY, USA
| | - João B T Rocha
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - José G Dórea
- Professor Emeritus, Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
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Hippocampal Dysfunction Provoked by Mercury Chloride Exposure: Evaluation of Cognitive Impairment, Oxidative Stress, Tissue Injury and Nature of Cell Death. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2018; 2018:7878050. [PMID: 29849915 PMCID: PMC5914100 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7878050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic metal, which can be found in its inorganic form in the environment. This form presents lower liposolubility and lower absorption in the body. In order to elucidate the possible toxicity of inorganic Hg in the hippocampus, we investigated the potential of low doses of mercury chloride (HgCl2) to promote hippocampal dysfunction by employing a chronic exposure model. For this, 56 rats were exposed to HgCl2 (0.375 mg/kg/day) via the oral route for 45 days. After the exposure period, the animals were submitted to the cognitive test of fear memory. The hippocampus was collected for the measurement of total Hg levels, analysis of oxidative stress, and evaluation of cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and tissue injury. It was observed that chronic exposure to inorganic Hg promotes an increase in mercury levels in this region and damage to short- and long-term memory. Furthermore, we found that this exposure model provoked oxidative stress, which led to cytotoxicity and cell death by apoptosis, affecting astrocytes and neurons in the hippocampus. Our study demonstrated that inorganic Hg, even with its low liposolubility, is able to produce deleterious effects in the central nervous system, resulting in cognitive impairment and hippocampal damage when administered for a long time at low doses in rats.
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Okati N, Esmaili-Sari A. Hair mercury and risk assessment for consumption of contaminated seafood in residents from the coast of the Persian Gulf, Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:639-657. [PMID: 29052151 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-0432-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The health risks of mercury exposure due to the high consumption of aquatic were assessed for fishermen and non-fishermen families living on the Bandar Abbas, Bushehr, and Mahshahr cities located in the coast of Persian Gulf (Iran). The mean hair mercury concentration of people in Bandar Abbas, Bushehr, and Mahshahr cities was obtained 1.56 ± 0.17, 1.97 ± 0.22, and 5.12 ± 0.3 μg g-1, respectively. Hair mercury concentration in 8.8% of people exceeded the no observed adverse effects level (NOAEL) of 10 μg g-1 declared by the World Health Organization (WHO). The fish and shrimps consumption, place of living, and fisher and non-fisherman family were variables that significantly effected on mercury levels in the hair. The effect of other factors (age, sex, and number of dental amalgam fillings) on hair mercury was not significant. The mean concentrations of mercury in three fish species in Mahshahr exceeded the recommended maximum standard level (0.5 μg g-1) set by the Joint Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). The estimated weekly intake (EWI) for mercury in some fish species in Bandar Abbas, Bushehr, and Mahshahr was higher than the provisional tolerable weekly intake (1.6 μg kg-1 bw) set by European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for some groups. The significant positive correlation between daily mercury intake and hair mercury concentration of people (r = 0.64, P < 0.001) reasserts that the hair mercury concentration could be explained by fish consumption. HQ > 1 was obtained for women in child bearing age in fishermen families in Bandar Abbas and Bushehr cities, children in fishermen families in Bushehr, and for all groups of population except adult in non-fishermen families in Mahshahr. So, the limited consumption of some fish species for these groups of people is recommended. The maximum of allowable fish consumption rate was 0.70 meals/month for Pseudorhombus arsius from Mahshahr fish for women of child bearing age. Also, it is necessary to create and monitor and enforce environmental standards, preventing the entry of pollutants released into the marine aquatic environment without proper early treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Okati
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Science, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box 46414-356, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Abbas Esmaili-Sari
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Science, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box 46414-356, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran.
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