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Stanek LW, Grokhowsky N, George BJ, Thomas KW. Assessing lead exposure in U.S. pregnant women using biological and residential measurements. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167135. [PMID: 37739076 PMCID: PMC11351066 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167135] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
There is strong scientific evidence for multiple pathways of human exposure to lead (Pb) in residential settings, particularly for young children; however, less is known about maternal exposure during pregnancy and children's exposure during early lifestages. A robust, multi-faceted secondary analysis was conducted using data collected by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development in the 2009-2014 National Children's Study Vanguard Studies. Descriptive statistics summarized Pb concentrations of maternal blood, maternal urine, and house dust vacuum samples collected during pregnancy and residence surface wipes collected both during pregnancy and six months post-partum. The maternal blood Pb level geometric mean was 0.44 μg/dL (n = 426), with no women having values ≥ 5 μg/dL; creatinine-adjusted maternal urinary Pb geometric mean was 0.43 μg/g (n = 366). These blood and urine concentrations are similar to those observed for females in the general U.S. population in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010-2011 cycle. A modest correlation between maternal blood Pb and surface wipe measurements during pregnancy was observed (Spearman r = 0.35, p < 0.0001). Surface wipe Pb loadings obtained in mother's homes during pregnancy (n = 640) and from areas where children spent the most time at roughly 6 months of age (n = 99) ranged from 0.02 to 71.8 ng/cm2, with geometric means of 0.47 and 0.49 ng/cm2, respectively, which were relatively low compared to other national studies. Survey responses of demographic, lifestyle, and residence characteristics were assessed for associations with blood concentration and surface wipe loading. Demographic (e.g., race/ethnicity, income, education, marital status) and housing characteristics (e.g., year home built, paint condition, own or rent home, attached garage) were associated with both maternal blood and surface wipe loadings during pregnancy. The availability of residential environmental media and extensive survey data provided enhanced understanding of Pb exposure during pregnancy and early life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay W Stanek
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Research and Development (ORD), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | - Nicholas Grokhowsky
- Formerly of Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Barbara J George
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Research and Development (ORD), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Kent W Thomas
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Research and Development (ORD), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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Talayero MJ, Robbins CR, Smith ER, Santos-Burgoa C. The association between lead exposure and crime: A systematic review. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002177. [PMID: 37527230 PMCID: PMC10393136 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Prior research has demonstrated an association between lead exposure and criminal behavior at the population-level, however studies exploring the effect of lead exposure on criminal behavior at the individual-level have not been reviewed systematically. The intent of this study is to complete a systematic review of all studies assessing individual-level exposures to lead and the outcomes of crime and antisocial behavior traits. We included peer reviewed studies that were published prior to August 2022 and were classified as cohort, cross-sectional, or case-control. Studies measuring the outcomes of crime, delinquency, violence, or aggression were included. The following databases were searched using a standardized search strategy: ProQuest Environmental Science Database, PubMed, ToxNet and the Public Affairs Information Service (PAIS). Seventeen manuscripts met our inclusion criteria. Blood lead was measured in 12 studies, bone lead in 3 studies, and dentine lead levels in 2 studies. This systematic review identified a wide range of diverse outcomes between exposure to lead at multiple windows of development and later delinquent, criminal and antisocial behavior. A review of all potential confounding variables included within each study was made, with inclusion of relevant confounders into the risk of bias tool. There is limited data at the individual level on the effects of prenatal, childhood, and adolescent lead exposure and later criminal behavior and more evidence is necessary to evaluate the magnitude of the associations seen in this review. Our review, in conjunction with the available biological evidence, suggests that an excess risk for criminal behavior in adulthood exists when an individual is exposed to lead in utero or in the early years of childhood. The authors report no conflict of interest and no funding source. Clinical trial registration: PROSPERO ID: CRD42021268379.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jose Talayero
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - C Rebecca Robbins
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Emily R Smith
- Department of Global Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Carlos Santos-Burgoa
- Department of Global Health, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
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Hall SM, Zhang S, Hoffman K, Miranda ML, Stapleton HM. Concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in human placental tissues and associations with birth outcomes. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 295:133873. [PMID: 35143854 PMCID: PMC8923299 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.133873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants commonly detected in human serum. Previous studies have observed associations between maternal serum PFAS and adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes such as lower birth weight or pre-eclampsia; however, few studies have explored these associations with birth outcomes and placental tissue PFAS concentration. The placenta is a vital contributor to a healthy pregnancy and may be involved in the mechanism of PFAS reproductive toxicity. Our goal was to measure placental PFAS concentrations and examine associations with birth outcomes (e.g., birth weight, gestational duration). Placenta samples (n = 120) were collected during delivery from women enrolled in the Healthy Pregnancy, Healthy Baby cohort (HPHB) in Durham, North Carolina. All placenta samples contained detectable PFAS, with perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) being the most abundant and most frequently detected (all >96% detection frequency). While placental PFAS concentrations did not differ by infant sex, higher PFAS levels were observed in placenta from nulliparous women, suggesting that parity influences the accumulation of PFAS in the placenta. We used linear regression models to examine associations between placental PFAS and birth outcomes. After adjustment for parity, tobacco use, maternal age, and maternal race, we found that placental PFOS was associated with lower birth weight for gestational age in male infants and higher birth weight for gestational age in female infants. Similar findings were seen for PFNA for birth weight for gestational age. These differences in birth outcomes based on infant sex highlight a need to explore mechanistic differences in PFAS toxicity during gestation for male and female infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Hall
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC, 27710, United States
| | - Sharon Zhang
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC, 27710, United States
| | - Kate Hoffman
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC, 27710, United States
| | - Marie Lynn Miranda
- University of Notre Dame, Department of Applied and Computational Mathematics and Statistics, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, United States
| | - Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC, 27710, United States.
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Sahu S, Nayak S, John J. Unmet need to screen for lead toxicity in the prevention of ADHD. J Family Med Prim Care 2021; 10:586-587. [PMID: 34017799 PMCID: PMC8132821 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_2065_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Suchanda Sahu
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Saurav Nayak
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Joseph John
- Department of Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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Wang D, Fu X, Zhang J, Xu C, Hu Q, Lin W. Association between blood lead level during pregnancy and birth weight: A meta-analysis. Am J Ind Med 2020; 63:1085-1094. [PMID: 32969041 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to provide a quantitative summary of evidence for a relationship between prenatal lead (Pb) exposure and birth weight. METHODS PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched for eligible epidemiological studies. We transformed findings in eligible studies with different effect-size metrics to standardized regression coefficients, and used fixed-effects or random-effects models to assess the pooled effects of prenatal Pb exposure on birth weight. RESULTS There was a significant negative association between prenatal Pb exposure and birth weight. Birth weight reduction was associated with elevated lead levels in maternal blood (β = -0.094; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.157 to -0.030) and cord blood (β = -0.120; 95% CI: -0.239 to -0.001). CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis is the first to provide a quantitative assessment of Pb exposure during pregnancy and an increased risk of lower birth weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duo Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Xi Fu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Chengfang Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Qiansheng Hu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou Guangdong China
| | - Weiwei Lin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health Sun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou Guangdong China
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Anyanwu BO, Ezejiofor AN, Igweze ZN, Orisakwe OE. Heavy Metal Mixture Exposure and Effects in Developing Nations: An Update. TOXICS 2018; 6:E65. [PMID: 30400192 PMCID: PMC6316100 DOI: 10.3390/toxics6040065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The drive for development and modernization has come at great cost. Various human activities in developed and developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) have given rise to environmental safety concerns. Increased artisanal mining activities, illegal refining, use of leaded petrol, airborne dust, arbitrary discarding and burning of toxic waste, absorption of production industries in inhabited areas, inadequate environmental legislation, and weak implementation of policies, have given rise to the incomparable contamination and pollution associated with heavy metals in recent decades. This review evaluates the public health effects of heavy metals and their mixtures in SSA. This shows the extent and size of the problem posed by exposure to heavy metal mixtures in regard to public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brilliance Onyinyechi Anyanwu
- World Bank Africa Centre of Excellence in Oilfield Chemicals Research, University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323 Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
| | - Anthonet Ndidiamaka Ezejiofor
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323 Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
| | - Zelinjo Nkeiruka Igweze
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Madonna University Elele, PMB, 5001 Elele, Rivers State, Nigeria.
| | - Orish Ebere Orisakwe
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Port Harcourt, PMB, 5323 Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
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Dodd-Butera T, Quintana PJE, Ramirez-Zetina M, Batista-Castro AC, Sierra MM, Shaputnic C, Garcia-Castillo M, Ingmanson S, Hull S. Placental biomarkers of PAH exposure and glutathione-S-transferase biotransformation enzymes in an obstetric population from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 152:360-368. [PMID: 27567517 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2016.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2015] [Revised: 03/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Environmental exposures along the US-Mexico border have the potential to adversely affect the maternal-fetal environment. The purpose of this study was to assess placental biomarkers of environmental exposures in an obstetric population at the California-Baja California border in relation to detoxifying enzymes in the placenta and nutritional status. This study was conducted on consenting, full-term, obstetric patients (n=54), delivering in a hospital in Tijuana, Baja California (BC), Mexico. Placental polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH)-DNA adducts were measured in addition to placental glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity and genotype, maternal serum folate, and maternal and umbilical cord blood lead and cadmium levels. A questionnaire was administered to the mothers to determine maternal occupation in a maquiladora, other exposures, and obstetric indicators. In univariate analysis, maternal serum folate levels were inversely correlated with total PAH-DNA adducts (rho=-0.375, p=0.007); adduct #1 (rho=-0.388, p=0.005); and adduct #3 (rho =-0.430, p=0.002). Maternal lead levels were significantly positively correlated with cord blood lead levels (rho=0.512, p<0.001). Cadmium levels were generally very low but significantly higher in mothers exposed to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) (either at work or at home, n=10). In multivariate analysis, only maternal serum folate levels remained as a significant negative predictor of total DNA-PAH adducts levels in placenta. These findings affirm that placental tissue is a valuable and readily available source of human tissue for biomonitoring; and indicate that further study of the role of nutrition in detoxification and mitigation of environmental exposures in pregnant women is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Dodd-Butera
- California State University San Bernardino, Department of Nursing, 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino, CA 92407, USA; San Diego State University, Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego, CA, USA; Union Institute & University, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | | | | | - Ana C Batista-Castro
- Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social Tijuana, BC, Mexico; Hospital General de Tijuana, Tijuana, Mexico.
| | - Maria M Sierra
- San Diego State University, Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Carolyn Shaputnic
- San Diego State University, Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego, CA, USA; University of California, San Diego, Western FASD Practice and Implementation Center, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Dysmorphology-Teratology, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Maura Garcia-Castillo
- Xochicalco Universidad Escuela de Medicina, BC, Mexico; Institute for Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Sonja Ingmanson
- San Diego State University, Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | - Stacy Hull
- San Diego State University, Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego, CA, USA.
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Tirima S, Bartrem C, von Lindern I, von Braun M, Lind D, Anka SM, Abdullahi A. Environmental Remediation to Address Childhood Lead Poisoning Epidemic due to Artisanal Gold Mining in Zamfara, Nigeria. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2016; 124:1471-8. [PMID: 26745642 PMCID: PMC5010416 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1510145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2015] [Revised: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND From 2010 through 2013, integrated health and environmental responses addressed an unprecedented epidemic lead poisoning in Zamfara State, northern Nigeria. Artisanal gold mining caused widespread contamination resulting in the deaths of > 400 children. Socioeconomic, logistic, and security challenges required remediation and medical protocols within the context of local resources, labor practices, and cultural traditions. OBJECTIVES Our aim was to implement emergency environmental remediation to abate exposures to 17,000 lead poisoned villagers, to facilitate chelation treatment of children ≤ 5 years old, and to establish local technical capacity and lead health advocacy programs to prevent future disasters. METHODS U.S. hazardous waste removal protocols were modified to accommodate local agricultural practices. Remediation was conducted over 4 years in three phases, progressing from an emergency response by international personnel to comprehensive cleanup funded and accomplished by the Nigerian government. RESULTS More than 27,000 m3 of contaminated soils and mining waste were removed from 820 residences and ore processing areas in eight villages, largely by hand labor, and disposed in constructed landfills. Excavated areas were capped with clean soils (≤ 25 mg/kg lead), decreasing soil lead concentrations by 89%, and 2,349 children received chelation treatment. Pre-chelation geometric mean blood lead levels for children ≤ 5 years old decreased from 149 μg/dL to 15 μg/dL over the 4-year remedial program. CONCLUSIONS The unprecedented outbreak and response demonstrate that, given sufficient political will and modest investment, the world's most challenging environmental health crises can be addressed by adapting proven response protocols to the capabilities of host countries. CITATION Tirima S, Bartrem C, von Lindern I, von Braun M, Lind D, Anka SM, Abdullahi A. 2016. Environmental remediation to address childhood lead poisoning epidemic due to artisanal gold mining in Zamfara, Nigeria. Environ Health Perspect 124:1471-1478; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1510145.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simba Tirima
- TerraGraphics International Foundation (TIFO), Moscow, Idaho, USA
- Environmental Science Program, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
| | - Casey Bartrem
- TerraGraphics International Foundation (TIFO), Moscow, Idaho, USA
- Environmental Science Program, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
| | - Ian von Lindern
- TerraGraphics International Foundation (TIFO), Moscow, Idaho, USA
| | - Margrit von Braun
- TerraGraphics International Foundation (TIFO), Moscow, Idaho, USA
- Environmental Science Program, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
- Address correspondence to M. von Braun, TerraGraphics International Foundation, 220 E. 5th St. #8866, Moscow, ID 83843 USA. Telephone: (208) 883-3512. E-mail:
| | - Douglas Lind
- Environmental Science Program, University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, USA
| | | | - Aishat Abdullahi
- Zamfara Environmental Sanitation Agency (ZESA), Zamfara State, Nigeria
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Leonetti C, Butt CM, Hoffman K, Miranda ML, Stapleton HM. Concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and 2,4,6-tribromophenol in human placental tissues. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 88:23-29. [PMID: 26700418 PMCID: PMC4755871 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Legacy environmental contaminants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widely detected in human tissues. However, few studies have measured PBDEs in placental tissues, and there are no reported measurements of 2,4,6-tribromophenol (2,4,6-TBP) in placental tissues. Measurements of these contaminants are important for understanding potential fetal exposures, as these compounds have been shown to alter thyroid hormone regulation in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we measured a suite of PBDEs and 2,4,6-TBP in 102 human placental tissues collected between 2010 and 2011 in Durham County, North Carolina, USA. The most abundant PBDE congener detected was BDE-47, with a mean concentration of 5.09ng/g lipid (range: 0.12-141ng/g lipid; detection frequency 91%); however, 2,4,6-TBP was ubiquitously detected and present at higher concentrations with a mean concentration of 15.4ng/g lipid (range:1.31-316ng/g lipid; detection frequency 100%). BDE-209 was also detected in more than 50% of the samples, and was significantly associated with 2,4,6-TBP in placental tissues, suggesting they may have a similar source, or that 2,4,6-TBP may be a degradation product of BDE-209. Interestingly, BDE-209 and 2,4,6-TBP were negatively associated with age (rs=-0.16; p=0.10 and rs=-0.17; p=0.08, respectively). The results of this work indicate that PBDEs and 2,4,6-TBP bioaccumulate in human placenta tissue and likely contribute to prenatal exposures to these environmental contaminants. Future studies are needed to determine if these joint exposures are associated with any adverse health measures in infants and children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Craig M Butt
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kate Hoffman
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Marie Lynn Miranda
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Statistics, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
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Miranda ML, Anthopolos R, Wolkin A, Stapleton HM. Associations of birth outcomes with maternal polybrominated diphenyl ethers and thyroid hormones during pregnancy. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2015; 85:244-53. [PMID: 26431883 PMCID: PMC4648648 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2015.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research has linked polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) exposure to poor birth outcomes and altered thyroid hormone levels. OBJECTIVES We examined whether maternal PBDE serum levels were associated with infant birth weight (g), head circumference (cm), birth length (cm), and birth weight percentile for gestational age. We explored the potential for a mediating role of thyroid hormone levels. METHODS During 2008-2010, we recruited 140 pregnant women in their third trimester as part of a larger clinical obstetrics study known as Healthy Pregnancy, Healthy Baby. Blood samples were collected during a routine prenatal clinic visit. Serum was analyzed for PBDEs, phenolic metabolites, and thyroid hormones. Birth outcome information was abstracted from medical records. RESULTS In unadjusted models, a two-fold increase in maternal BDE 153 was associated with an average decrease in head circumference of 0.32cm (95% CI: -0.53, -0.12); however, this association was attenuated after control for maternal risk factors. BDE 47 and 99 were similarly negatively associated but with 95% confidence intervals crossing the null. Associations were unchanged in the presence of thyroid hormones. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest a potential deleterious association between maternal PBDE levels and infant head circumference; however, confirmatory studies are needed in larger sample sizes. A mediating role of thyroid hormones was not apparent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Lynn Miranda
- School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Rebecca Anthopolos
- School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Amy Wolkin
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
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Ugwuja EI, Nnabu RC, Ezeonu PO, Uro-Chukwu H. The effect of parity on maternal body mass index, plasma mineral element status and new-born anthropometrics. Afr Health Sci 2015; 15:986-92. [PMID: 26957991 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v15i3.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse pregnancy outcome is an important public health problem that has been partly associated with increasing maternal parity. AIM To determine the effect of parity on maternal body mass index (BMI), mineral element status and newborn anthropometrics. METHODS Data for 349 pregnant women previously studied for the impacts of maternal plasma mineral element status on pregnancy and its outcomes was analysed. Obstetric and demographic data and 5mls of blood samples were obtained from each subject. Blood lead, plasma copper, iron and zinc were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. RESULTS Maternal BMI increases with parity. Women with parity two had significantly higher plasma zinc but lower plasma copper with comparable levels of the elements in nulliparous and higher parity groups. Although plasma iron was comparable among the groups, blood lead was significantly higher in parity > three. Newborn birth length increases with parity with a positive correlation between parity and maternal BMI (r = 0.221; p = 0.001) and newborn birth length (r = 0.170; p = 0.002) while plasma copper was negatively correlated with newborn's head circumference (r = -0.115; p = 0.040). CONCLUSION It is plausible that parity affects maternal BMI and newborn anthropometrics through alterations in maternal plasma mineral element levels. While further studies are desired to confirm the present findings, there is need for pregnant and would-be pregnant women to diversify their diet to optimize their mineral element status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel I Ugwuja
- Departments of Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Ebonyi State University, P.M.B. 053, Abakalik i, Nigeria; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Richard C Nnabu
- Department of Community Medicine, Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Paul O Ezeonu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
| | - Henry Uro-Chukwu
- Department of Social Mobilisation and Disease Control, National Obstetric Fistula Centre, Abakaliki, Nigeria
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Edwards SE, Maxson P, Miranda ML, Fry RC. Cadmium levels in a North Carolina cohort: Identifying risk factors for elevated levels during pregnancy. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2015; 25:427-32. [PMID: 25073434 PMCID: PMC4312255 DOI: 10.1038/jes.2014.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2013] [Revised: 05/28/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to examine cadmium (Cd) levels and relationships to demographics in an observational, prospective pregnancy cohort study in Durham County, North Carolina. Multivariable models were used to compare blood Cd levels across demographic characteristics. The relative risk of having a blood Cd level that exceeds the US national median (0.32 μg/l) was estimated. Overall, >60% of the women had an elevated (>0.32 μg/l) blood Cd level. Controlling for confounding variables, smoking was associated with 21% (95% CI: 15-28%) increased risk for an elevated blood Cd level. High Cd levels were also observed in non-smokers and motivated smoking status-stratified models. Race, age, education, relationship status, insurance status and cotinine level were not associated with risk of elevated Cd levels among smokers; however, older age and higher cotinine levels were associated with elevated Cd levels among non-smokers. Taken together, more than half of pregnant women in this cohort had elevated blood Cd levels. Additionally, among non-smokers, 53% of the women had elevated levels of Cd, highlighting other potential sources of exposure. This study expands on the limited data describing Cd levels in pregnant populations and highlights the importance of understanding Cd exposures among non-smokers. Given the latent health risks of both smoking and Cd exposure, this study further highlights the need to biomonitor for exposure to toxic metals during pregnancy among all women of child-bearing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon E. Edwards
- Children’s Environmental Health Initiative, School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Pamela Maxson
- Children’s Environmental Health Initiative, School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Marie Lynn Miranda
- Children’s Environmental Health Initiative, School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics and Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rebecca C. Fry
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Richmond-Bryant J, Meng Q, Cohen J, Davis JA, Svendsgaard D, Brown JS, Tuttle L, Hubbard H, Rice J, Kirrane E, Vinikoor-Imler L, Kotchmar D, Hines E, Ross M. Effect measure modification of blood lead-air lead slope factors. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2015; 25:411-416. [PMID: 24961837 DOI: 10.1038/jes.2014.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Revised: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
There is abundant literature finding that susceptibility factors, including race and ethnicity, age, and housing, directly influence blood lead levels. No study has explored how susceptibility factors influence the blood lead-air lead relationship nationally. The objective is to evaluate whether susceptibility factors act as effect measure modifiers on the blood lead-air lead relationship. Participant level blood lead data from the 1999 to 2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were merged with air lead data from the US Environmental Protection Agency. Linear mixed effects models were run with and without an air lead interaction term for age group, sex, housing age, or race/ethnicity to determine whether these factors are effect measure modifiers for all ages combined and for five age brackets. Age group and race/ethnicity were determined to be effect measure modifiers in the all-age model and for some age groups. Being a child (1-5, 6-11, and 12-19 years) or of Mexican-American ethnicity increased the effect estimate. Living in older housing (built before 1950) decreased the effect estimate for all models except for the 1-5-year group, where older housing was an effect measure modifier. These results are consistent with the peer-reviewed literature of time-activity patterns, ventilation, and toxicokinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Richmond-Bryant
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Qingyu Meng
- School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - J Allen Davis
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - David Svendsgaard
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - James S Brown
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lauren Tuttle
- School of Architecture, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | | | - Joann Rice
- Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ellen Kirrane
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lisa Vinikoor-Imler
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Dennis Kotchmar
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Erin Hines
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mary Ross
- National Center for Environmental Assessment, US Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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Johnston JE, Valentiner E, Maxson P, Miranda ML, Fry RC. Maternal cadmium levels during pregnancy associated with lower birth weight in infants in a North Carolina cohort. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109661. [PMID: 25285731 PMCID: PMC4186854 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a ubiquitous environmental contaminant, a known carcinogen, and understudied as a developmental toxicant. In the present study, we examined the relationships between Cd levels during pregnancy and infant birth outcomes in a prospective pregnancy cohort in Durham, North Carolina. The study participants (n = 1027) had a mean Cd level of 0.46 µg/L with a range of <0.08 to 2.52 µg/L. Multivariable models were used to establish relationships between blood Cd tertiles and fetal growth parameters, namely birth weight, low birth weight, birth weight percentile by gestational age, small for gestational age, pre-term birth, length, and head circumference. In multivariable models, high maternal blood Cd levels (≥0.50 µg/L) during pregnancy were inversely associated with birth weight percentile by gestational age (p = 0.007) and associated with increased odds of infants being born small for gestational age (p<0.001). These observed effects were independent of cotinine-defined smoking status. The results from this study provide further evidence of health risks associated with early life exposure to Cd among a large pregnancy cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill E. Johnston
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Ellis Valentiner
- School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Pamela Maxson
- School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Marie Lynn Miranda
- School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Rebecca C. Fry
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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15
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Baeyens W, Vrijens J, Gao Y, Croes K, Schoeters G, Den Hond E, Sioen I, Bruckers L, Nawrot T, Nelen V, Van Den Mieroop E, Morrens B, Loots I, Van Larebeke N, Leermakers M. Trace metals in blood and urine of newborn/mother pairs, adolescents and adults of the Flemish population (2007-2011). Int J Hyg Environ Health 2014; 217:878-90. [PMID: 25041848 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2014.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The Flemish Centre for Environment and Health started with human biomonitoring in 2002 (FLEHS I: 2002-2006). The main goal of the second human biomonitoring cycle (FLEHS II: 2007-2011), was to determine mean values for a large number of pollutants in a representative sample of the general Flemish population. Values for Cd and Pb were updated, and a group of previously undetermined metals and metalloids (As, Mn, Cu and Tl) were included in some of the age groups. In this human biomonitoring program, three different age groups of the general Flemish population were monitored: 255 newborns and their mothers, 210 adolescents aged 14-15, and 204 adults between 20 and 40 years old. Trace elements were determined in cord blood and maternal blood of the mothers, in blood and urine of adolescents and in urine of adults. Determinants of life-style and personal factors were taken into account. The levels of trace elements in cord blood and maternal blood were for most elements at the lower end of the range found in literature. For Pb, As and Tl, a strong correlation (respectively r=0.43, 0.55 and 0.33; p<0.05) was found between levels in cord blood (respectively 8.6, 0.54 and 0.017 μg/L) and maternal blood (11.1, 0.64 and 0.028 μg/L), indicating that they are transported via the placenta from mother to fetus. The levels found in the adolescents and adults were compared with results from international biomonitoring studies, and were found to be in the same ranges. With the exception of Pb, all trace elements increased with increasing age group population. Finally, the results also showed that the levels of Cd and Pb in blood for this campaign (e.g. for Pb 8.6 and 14.8 μg/L in neonates and adolescents respectively) were lower compared to the first campaign (e.g. for Pb 14.7 and 21.7 μg/L in neonates and adolescents respectively), indicating a decrease over time. However, differences in sampling strategies might partially explain this observed trend.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willy Baeyens
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jan Vrijens
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Yue Gao
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kim Croes
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Greet Schoeters
- Environmental Risk and Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Mol, Belgium; Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Elly Den Hond
- Environmental Risk and Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Mol, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Sioen
- Department of Public Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Liesbeth Bruckers
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, Hasselt University, Belgium
| | - Tim Nawrot
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Belgium
| | - Vera Nelen
- Department of Health, Provincial Institute for Hygiene (PIH), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Els Van Den Mieroop
- Department of Health, Provincial Institute for Hygiene (PIH), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bert Morrens
- Faculty of Political and Social Sciences, University of Antwerp (UA), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ilse Loots
- Faculty of Political and Social Sciences, University of Antwerp (UA), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Van Larebeke
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Martine Leermakers
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geochemistry (AMGC), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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Chelchowska M, Ambroszkiewicz J, Jablonka-Salach K, Gajewska J, Maciejewski TM, Bulska E, Laskowska-Klita T, Leibschang J. Tobacco smoke exposure during pregnancy increases maternal blood lead levels affecting neonate birth weight. Biol Trace Elem Res 2013; 155:169-75. [PMID: 23934137 PMCID: PMC3785700 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-013-9775-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2013] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
To assess the effect of lead exposure from cigarette smoke on fetal growth, blood lead concentrations were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in 150 healthy pregnant women. Mean lead concentrations in plasma and whole blood were significantly higher in the smoking group compared with the nonsmoking group in each trimester of pregnancy (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed the highest impact of the number of cigarettes smoked per day for serum lead concentration (β = 0.238; p < 0.05), while in whole blood, it was duration of smoking before conception (β = 0.297; p < 0.001). Birth weight of the smoking mothers' infants was significantly lower (mean ± SEM, 3,192 ± 50.8 and 3,569 ± 49.6 g, respectively; p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with lead levels in plasma (r = -0.38; p < 0.001) and in whole blood (r = -0.27; p < 0.001). Therefore, it is suggested that smoking during pregnancy increases lead concentrations in maternal blood. Fetal exposure to low doses of lead in utero may be a serious risk factor causing lower birth weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Chelchowska
- Screening Department, Institute of Mother and Child, Kasprzaka 17a, 01-211, Warsaw, Poland,
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Channa K, Odland JØ, Kootbodien T, Theodorou P, Naik I, Sandanger TM, Röllin HB. Differences in prenatal exposure to mercury in South African communities residing along the Indian Ocean. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2013; 463-464:11-19. [PMID: 23787104 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2013.05.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2013] [Revised: 05/13/2013] [Accepted: 05/18/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Mercury is a persistent environmental pollutant that has the potential to adversely affect human health, particularly, foetal neurodevelopment. The purpose of the study was to investigate prenatal mercury (Hg) exposure in the population in three sites along the South Africa coast. Study subjects included women (n=350) who were admitted for delivery at the local hospitals. Maternal and cord blood samples were collected to measure total mercury and each participant was required to answer a questionnaire. The 90th percentile of mercury levels in maternal and cord blood of the total population was 1.15 μg/l and 1.67 μg/l, respectively. Site 1 (Manguzi) participants had the highest maternal geometric mean (GM) values of 0.93 μg/l, which was significantly different from Site 2 (Port Shepstone) (0.49 μg/l) and Site 3 (Empangeni) (0.56 μg/l) (ANOVA test, p<0.001). Umbilical cord blood GM Hg level for Site 1 (1.45 μg/l) was more than double the GM Hg level in Site 2 (0.70 μg/l) and Site 3 (0.73 μg/l). Univariate analysis indicated that the following maternal characteristics were positive predictors for elevated umbilical cord Hg levels: maternal blood Hg levels, living with a partner, residing in Site 1, living in informal housing, using wood and gas for cooking, borehole water as a drinking source, and a member of the household being involved in fishing. Maternal dietary predictors of elevated Hg levels in umbilical cord blood included consuming fresh fish, tinned fish, fruit or dairy products, daily. This study provides baseline data and reveals that 2% of the study population were above the EPA's reference value (5.8 μg/l) suggesting low level exposure to mercury in pregnant women and the developing foetus in South Africa. Further research is required to explore the sources of elevated Hg levels in Site 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalavati Channa
- Institute of Community Medicine, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway; National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH), Johannesburg, South Africa.
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18
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Ngueta G, Ndjaboue R. Blood lead concentrations in sub-Saharan African children below 6 years: systematic review. Trop Med Int Health 2013; 18:1283-91. [PMID: 23980755 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.12179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the geometric mean of blood lead levels in children aged below 6 years living in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS Search strategies were developed in MEDLINE, Web of Science and Google scholar system, supplemented by screening of references from included papers and review articles. Studies including children younger than 6 years residing in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) were eligible. The studies were assessed for quality of methods for blood collection, for participants' recruitment and for quality control for lead analyses. Data were extracted and synthetised by estimating the mean weighted by sample size. RESULTS A total of 11 148 published papers were identified with only 16 studies conducted in SSA. Only nine of them were relevant of inclusion criteria. The weighted mean of blood lead levels was 13.1 μg/dl. Five of included studies were classified as being less likely to present selection bias, having performed venipuncture and adequate quality control for lead analyses. The weighted mean from analyses involving only these studies was 16.2 μg/dl. Six of the included studies reported the prevalence of blood lead levels ≥10 μg/dl; levels ranged from 7.0% to 70.9%. Only one study reported the prevalence of blood lead levels ≥5 μg/dl (50%). CONCLUSIONS The geometric mean of blood lead levels in sub-Saharan African children is still elevated relative to the US children. The new standard from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (5 μg/dl) implies that important efforts should be directed towards the initiation (or reinforcement) of prevention programmes and thorough research studies in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Ngueta
- Population Health and Optimal Health Practices Research Unit, CHUQ Research Center, Laval University, Quebec, QC, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec, QC, Canada
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Ugwuja EI, Ibiam UA, Ejikeme BN, Obuna JA, Agbafor KN. Blood Pb Levels in pregnant Nigerian women in Abakaliki, South-Eastern Nigeria. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2013; 185:3795-3801. [PMID: 22915221 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-012-2828-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2011] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Environmental lead (Pb) exposure and toxicity have been recognised as public health problems of global importance, affecting both the developed and developing nations. In this work, blood Pb of pregnant women that were not exposed to lead by their occupation (n = 349), with mean ± SD age of 27.0 ± 4.8 years and gestational age of 21.8 ± 3.1 weeks at recruitment were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results showed that 309 (88.5 %) of the women had a mean ± SD blood Pb of 40.0 ± 16.5 μg/dl, which is higher than the current US Centre for Disease Prevention and Control action limit (>10 μg/dl). The observed high prevalence of elevated blood Pb levels may be related to maternal low socioeconomic status. Health education is, therefore, urgently needed to sensitise the general public and the policy makers of the level of Pb exposure in Abakaliki environment and the inherent health implications. In addition to mandatory environmental lead monitoring, blood Pb screening for would-be mother is recommended, and those whose blood Pb are found elevated should be appropriately treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel I Ugwuja
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Ebonyi State University, PMB 053, Abakaliki, Nigeria.
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Ruiz-Castell M, Paco P, Barbieri FL, Duprey JL, Forns J, Carsin AE, Freydier R, Casiot C, Sunyer J, Gardon J. Child neurodevelopment in a Bolivian mining city. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2012; 112:147-54. [PMID: 22197316 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2011.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Revised: 11/28/2011] [Accepted: 12/02/2011] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluates the neurodevelopment of children living near contaminated mining industries during their first year of life. Participants from the city of Oruro (Bolivia) were prospectively recruited during pregnancy. Follow-up occurred between May 2007 and November 2009. Information about the socioeconomic status and medical history of the pregnant women were collected using questionnaires. Neurodevelopment was evaluated for 246 children using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID) at 10.5-12.5 months of age. Exposure to trace elements (Pb, As, Cd, Sb, Cs, Zn, Fe, Cu, Se, Rb, and Sr) during prenatal life was evaluated by testing maternal blood concentrations before delivery. Almost all measured levels were lower than the control limits. The blood lead concentration of pregnant women was low, considering the contaminated environmental context. The geometric mean was 1.76 μg/dL (95% CI: 1.68-1.84), a level comparable with those observed in non-contaminated areas. The only element found to be relatively elevated was antimony, with a geometric mean of 1.03 μg/dL (95% CI: 0.96-1.11). Our results suggest that women from this mining area were not highly exposed. The Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID) did not reveal mental or psychomotor abnormalities. Surprisingly, at the observed low levels, lead was positively associated with the children's BSID performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Ruiz-Castell
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
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Stapleton HM, Eagle S, Anthopolos R, Wolkin A, Miranda ML. Associations between polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants, phenolic metabolites, and thyroid hormones during pregnancy. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2011; 119:1454-9. [PMID: 21715241 PMCID: PMC3230439 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1003235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2010] [Accepted: 06/29/2011] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are chemical additives used as flame retardants in commercial products. PBDEs are bioaccumulative and persistent and have been linked to several adverse health outcomes. OBJECTIVES This study leverages an ongoing pregnancy cohort to measure PBDEs and PBDE metabolites in serum collected from an understudied population of pregnant women late in their third trimester. A secondary objective was to determine whether the PBDEs or their metabolites were associated with maternal thyroid hormones. METHODS One hundred forty pregnant women > 34 weeks into their pregnancy were recruited into this study between 2008 and 2010. Blood samples were collected during a routine prenatal clinic visit. Serum was analyzed for a suite of PBDEs, three phenolic metabolites (i.e., containing an -OH moiety), and five thyroid hormones. RESULTS PBDEs were detected in all samples and ranged from 3.6 to 694 ng/g lipid. Two hydroxylated BDE congeners (4´-OH-BDE 49 and 6-OH-BDE 47) were detected in > 67% of the samples. BDEs 47, 99, and 100 were significantly and positively associated with free and total thyroxine (T4) levels and with total triiodothyronine levels above the normal range. Associations between T4 and PBDEs remained after controlling for smoking status, maternal age, race, gestational age, and parity. CONCLUSIONS PBDEs and OH-BDEs are prevalent in this cohort, and levels are similar to those in the general population. Given their long half-lives, PBDEs may be affecting thyroid regulation throughout pregnancy. Further research is warranted to determine mechanisms through which PBDEs affect thyroid hormone levels in developing fetuses and newborn babies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather M Stapleton
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
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