Occupational exposure to pesticides deregulates systemic cortisol levels in women with breast cancer and correlates with poor prognosis features

Pesticides have been pointed out as hormone disruptors and may significantly affect the prognosis of hormone-dependent diseases such as breast cancer (BC). Here, we investigated the impact of occupational pesticide exposure on systemic cortisol levels in female rural workers diagnosed with BC. Occupational exposure was assessed by interviews with a standardized questionnaire. Plasma samples (112 from pesticide-exposed women and 77 from unexposed women) were collected in the afternoon, outside the physiological cortisol peak, and analyzed by a chemiluminescent paramagnetic immunoassay for the quantitative determination of cortisol levels in serum and plasma. The results from both groups were categorized according to patients' clinicopathological and exposure data. BC pesticide-exposed women presented higher levels of cortisol than the unexposed. Higher cortisol levels were also detected in the exposed group with more aggressive disease (triple-negative BC), with tumors over 2 cm, with lymph node metastases, and with high risk of disease recurrence and death. These findings demonstrated that there is an association between pesticide exposure and BC that affected cortisol levels and correlated to poor disease prognosis.

Trends on deaths from acute pesticide poisoning in Mexico, 2000-2021 / Tendências das mortes por intoxicação aguda por pesticidas no México, 2000-2021

ABSTRACT Objetive: To provide a comprehensive analysis of mortality trends from acute pesticide poisoning in Mexico from 2000 through 2021. Methods: The governmental records of deaths from acute pesticide poisoning were used. The age-standardized years of life lost and aged-standardized mortality rates were estimated. Significant changes in trends of annual percentage change were identified using Joinpoint regression. Results: Between 2000 and 2021, mortality was primarily observed in individuals aged 15 to 19 years. Males were the most affected. Self-inflicted pesticide poisoning was the primary registered reason for death. The age-standardized mortality rate from acute pesticide poisoning was reduced from 2012 to 2021 (APC: -4.4; p=0.003). Conclusion: This report is the first study about the mortality rate from acute pesticide poisoning in Mexico. The results provided evidence to consider in developing laws to prevent acute pesticide poisoning.

RESUMO Objetivo: Fornecer uma análise abrangente das tendências de mortalidade por envenenamento agudo por pesticidas no México de 2000 a 2021. Métodos: Foram usados os registros governamentais de mortes por envenenamento agudo por pesticidas. Foram estimados os anos de vida perdidos estandardizados por idade e as taxas de mortalidade estandardizados por idade. Modificações significativas nas tendências de variação percentual anual foram identificadas usando a regressão Joinpoint. Resultados: Entre 2000 e 2021, a mortalidade foi observada principalmente em indivíduos na faixa etária de 15 a 19 anos. Os homens foram os mais afetados. O envenenamento por pesticida autoinfligido foi o principal motivo de morte registrado. A taxa de mortalidade estandardizada por idade por intoxicação aguda por pesticidas foi reduzida de 2012 a 2021 (Annual Percent Change — APC: -4,4; p=0,003). Conclusão: Este relatório é o primeiro estudo sobre a taxa de mortalidade por intoxicação aguda por pesticidas no México. Os resultados forneceram evidências a serem consideradas no desenvolvimento de leis para prevenir o envenenamento agudo por pesticidas.

Acute pesticide poisoning: Comparison of epidemiological characteristics between the rural and urban population

Objective: To analyze the behavior of pesticide poisoning associated with lethality in rural and urban populations in Colombia from 2007 to 2017. Methodology: Retrospective observational study that included a descriptive cross-sectional study and an ecological design that analyzed aggregate measures of morbidity, mortality, and risk attributable to the population in rural and urban areas. In the cross-sectional study, the relative risk was estimated to measure the factors associated with lethality among intoxications using Poisson regression with logarithmic function. For the time series, the trends were established with simple linear regression, and the seasonal decomposition was performed using the multiplicative model. Autocorrelations were tested using the Box-Ljung statistic. Results: Between 2007-2017; 89 490 cases were reported. The Morbidity due to poisoning showed a higher proportion in the rural population 36.03 cases per 100 000; this indicator was three times higher than in urban areas (12.33 cases per 100 000). The mortality rates in rural and urban areas were 1.00 and 0.13 cases per 100 000, respectively. The relative risk of fatality in case of intoxication was associated with the intention of suicide in the rural population Relative Risk (RR): 5.9 (95% CI: 5.0-6.9). Conclusion: A higher proportion of lethality associated with these events occurred in populations living in rural areas and reporting cases of suicidal intent. In addition, morbidity and mortality due to pesticide poisoning had the highest proportion in rural areas and a growing trend over time.

Objetivo: Analizar el comportamiento de las intoxicaciones por plaguicidas en poblaciones rurales y urbanas asociadas a la letalidad en Colombia durante 2007-2017. Metodología: Estudio observacional retrospectivo que incluyó: un estudio descriptivo transversal y un diseño ecológico que analizó medidas agregadas de morbilidad, mortalidad y riesgo atribuibles a la población en áreas rurales y urbanas. En el estudio transversal se estimó el riesgo relativo para medir los factores asociados a la letalidad entre las intoxicaciones mediante regresión de Poisson con función logarítmica. Para la serie de tiempo, las tendencias se establecieron con regresión lineal simple y la descomposición estacional se realizó mediante el modelo multiplicativo. Las autocorrelaciones se probaron mediante el estadístico Box-Ljung. Resultados: Entre 2007-2017; Se notificaron 89 490 casos. La Morbilidad por intoxicación presentó mayor proporción en la población rural 36,03 casos por 100 000; este indicador fue tres veces mayor que en las áreas urbanas (12,33 casos por 100 000). Las tasas de mortalidad en el área rural y urbana fueron de 1,00 y 0,13 casos por 100 000, respectivamente. El riesgo relativo de fatalidad en caso de intoxicación se asoció con la intención de suicidio en la población rural RR: 5,9 (IC 95%: 5,0-6,9). Conclusión: Una mayor proporción de letalidad asociada a estos eventos ocurrió en poblaciones que viven en áreas rurales y reportan casos de intención suicida. Además, la morbilidad y mortalidad por intoxicación por plaguicidas tuvo la mayor proporción en las zonas rurales y una tendencia creciente en el tiempo.

Objetivo: Analisar o comportamento das intoxicações por agrotóxicos em populações rurais e urbanas associadas à letalidade na Colômbia durante 2007-2017. Metodologia: Estudo observacional retrospectivo que incluiu: estudo transversal descritivo e delineamento ecológico que analisou medidas agregadas de morbidade, mortalidade e risco atribuíveis à população em áreas rurais e urbanas. No estudo transversal, o risco relativo foi estimado para medir os fatores associados à letalidade entre as intoxicações por meio da regressão de Poisson com função logarítmica. Para as séries temporais, as tendências foram estabelecidas com regressão linear simples e a decomposição sazonal foi realizada usando o modelo multiplicativo. As autocorrelações foram testadas usando a estatística Box-Ljung. Resultados: Entre 2007-2017; 89.490 casos foram notificados. A Morbidade por intoxicação apresentou maior proporção na população rural 36,03 casos por 100.000; este indicador foi três vezes superior ao das zonas urbanas (12,33 casos por 100 000). As taxas de mortalidade nas áreas rural e urbana foram de 1,00 e 0,13 casos por 100.000 habitantes, respectivamente. O risco relativo de fatalidade em caso de intoxicação associou-se à intenção de suicídio na população rural RR: 5,9 (IC 95%: 5,0-6,9). Conclusão: Maior proporção de letalidade associada a esses eventos ocorreu em populações residentes em áreas rurais e com relato de casos de intenção suicida. Além disso, a morbimortalidade por intoxicação por agrotóxicos teve maior proporção na zona rural e tendência crescente ao longo do tempo.

Niveles de colinesterasa sérica en agricultores de San Pablo de Borbur, Boyacá, expuestos a organofosforados

Introducción: Las colinesterasas son enzimas que se encargan de hidrolizar la acetilcolina en ácido acético y colina, poniéndole fin a la transmisión nerviosa a lo largo de la sinapsis de las uniones neuromusculares. La medición de la actividad de la colinesterasa sérica constituye un indicador del efecto causado por la exposición prolongada a los organofosforados. Objetivo: Determinar los niveles de colinesterasa sérica y factores relacionados con la exposición a organofosforados en agricultores de la vereda de Páramo Lagunas de San Pablo de Borbur, Boyacá, Colombia. Metodología: Estudio prospectivo, de corte transversal, con una muestra de 57 trabajadores. A cada individuo se le aplicó una encuesta de datos sociodemográficos y factores laborales, posteriormente se les tomó una muestra de sangre venosa en ayuno de 8-12 horas; con el fin de determinar las concentraciones de colinesterasa sérica (kit Colinesterasa Butiriltiocolina Biosystems®) con el equipo automatizado de química clínica A-15 de Biosystems®. Resultados: El rango de edad de los participantes estuvo entre los 22 y 64 aflos, el 72 % de los individuos pertenecía al sexo masculino. El 3,5 % (2 varones) presentó valores inferiores al intervalo biológico de referencia (IBR), el 88 % de las personas afirmó realizar tareas con plaguicidas y el 54 % afirmó no utilizar los elementos de protección personal (EPP) al trabajar con estas sustancias. Conclusiones: Se evidenció la falta de escolaridad y la ausencia del acompaflamiento técnico en esta zona, lo que induce a que estos agricultores realicen procesos agrícolas relacionados con la aplicación de plaguicidas sin el adecuado conocimiento y sin la utilización adecuada de EPP.

Introduction: Cholinesterases are enzymes responsible for hydrolyzing acetylcholine in acetic acid and choline, which ends nerve transmission along the synapse of neuromuscular junctions. Measurement of serum cholinesterase activity acts as an indicator of the effect caused by prolonged exposure to organophosphates and carbamates Objective: To determine serum cholinesterase levels and factors related to exposure to organophosphates in farmers from the county of Páramo Lagunas in San Pablo de Borbur, Boyacá, Colombia. Methodology: Prospective, cross-sectional study, with a sample of 57 agricultural workers, a survey of sociodemographic data and labor factors was applied to each individual and a venous blood sample was taken in an 8-12 hour fasting, Serum cholinesterase concentrations were determined (Biosystems® Butyrylthiocholine Cholinesterase kit), by means of the Biosystems® A-15 automated clinical chemistry kit. Results: The age range of the participants was between 22 and 64 years old, 72% of the individuals belonged to the male sex. 3.5% (2 male individuals) presented values lower than the biological reference interval (BRI); 88% of the people affirmed to carry out tasks with pesticides and 54% of them affirmed not to use personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with these substances. Conclusions: The lack of schooling was evidenced in most of the farmers, as well as the absence of technical support to this area, which induces these farmers to carry out agricultural processes such as pesticide application, without adequate knowledge and without the proper use of PPE.

Residuos de glifosato en cereales de desayuno de origen internacional y nacional comercializados en Saltillo, Coahuila / Glyphosate residues in breakfast cereals of national and international origin marketed in Saltillo, Coahuila

Resumen Objetivo: Detectar y cuantificar residuos de glifosato en cereales de desayuno comercializados en la ciudad de Saltillo, Coahuila. Materiales y Métodos: Se analizaron tres muestras de 12 marcas de cereal distintas. Para la extracción de plaguicidas se utilizó un equipo Soxhlet y la cuantificación se realizó por medio de Cromatografía Líquida de Alta Eficiencia (HPLC), utilizando un equipo marca Agillent modelo 1100 Series acoplado a un detector UV-Vis. Resultados: Se detectó glifosato en el 100% de las muestras analizadas, se obtuvieron concentraciones de entre 170 a 2 400 mg/kg, las muestras que presentaron mayores concentraciones fueron las de marcas internacionales. Conclusiones: Se detectaron residuos de glifosato en las 24 muestras analizadas de cereales de desayuno, las cuales sobrepasaron los LMR establecidos en el CODEX ALIMENTARIUS, por lo que es importante realizar más estudios con el fin de monitorear y asegurar la inocuidad de los productos procesados que son consumidos.

Abstract Objective: To detect and quantify glyphosate residues in breakfast cereals marketed in the city of Saltillo, Coahuila. Materials and Methods: Two samples of 12 different cereal brands were analyzed. A Soxhlet apparatus was used for pesticide extraction and quantification was performed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) using an Agillent model 1100 Series equipment coupled to a UV- Vis detector. Results: Glyphosate was detected in 100% of the samples analyzed, with concentrations ranging from 170 to 2 400 mg/kg; the samples with the highest concentrations were those of international brands. Conclusions: All the concentrations detected in the commercial cereal samples exceeded the MRLs established in CODEX ALIMENTARIUS, so it is important to carry out more studies in order to monitor and ensure the safety of the processed products that are consumed.

Exposure of patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis to pesticides / Exposição de pacientes com doença renal crônica em tratamento dialítico aos agrotóxicos

ABSTRACT Introduction: Pesticides can trigger kidney disease. Objective: To describe the exposure to pesticides of patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis. Methods: Quantitative and descriptive field research, with 90 patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis in two hemodialysis units in the state of Santa Catarina, through the application of a structured questionnaire. Participants were divided into two groups: with and without exposure to pesticides. The questionnaire was applied in hemodialysis clinics during treatment. Laboratory test values were collected from clinical records. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and association using the chi-square test. For laboratory test data, a comparison of means was performed using the unpaired Student's t-test between the groups. Results: The mean age of exposed participants was 58 years (±13.7; minimum = 23; maximum = 75) and that of non-exposed participants was 64 years old (±13.9; minimum = 35; maximum = 96). Of the 90 patients, 30% were exposed to pesticides. The mean exposure time was 6.7 ± 3.8 hours/day. There was a statistically significant association between the preparation of the mixture with pesticides and diabetes (p ≤ 0.048). There was no statistically significant difference between the results of laboratory tests in the exposed and non-exposed groups. Conclusion: This study shows that pesticides can be triggering factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD); however, we must expand research in this field to prove the relationship between exposure to pesticides and CKD.

Resumo Introdução: O uso de agrotóxicos pode desencadear doença renal. Objetivo: Descrever a exposição a agrotóxicos de pacientes com doença renal crônica em tratamento dialítico. Métodos: Pesquisa de campo, quantitativa e descritiva, com 90 portadores de doença renal crônica em tratamento dialítico em duas unidades de hemodiálise no estado de Santa Catarina, por meio da aplicação de um questionário estruturado. Os participantes foram divididos em dois grupos: sem e com exposição a agrotóxicos. O questionário foi aplicado nas clínicas de hemodiálise durante o tratamento. Foram coletados valores de exames laboratoriais dos prontuários clínicos. Os dados foram analisados pela estatística descritiva e associação pelo teste qui-quadrado. Para os dados dos exames laboratoriais, foi realizada comparação de médias pelo teste t de Student não pareado entre os grupos. Resultados: A idade média dos participantes expostos foi de 58 anos (±13,7; mínimo = 23; máximo = 75) e a dos não expostos, de 64 anos (±13,9; mínimo = 35; máximo = 96). Dos 90 pacientes, 30% foram expostos a agrotóxicos. O tempo médio de exposição foi de 6,7 ± 3,8 horas/dia. Houve associação estatística significativa entre o preparo da calda com agrotóxicos e a presença de diabetes (p ≤ 0,048). Não houve diferença estatística significativa entre os resultados dos exames laboratoriais do grupo exposto e do não exposto. Conclusão Esta pesquisa evidencia que os agrotóxicos podem ser fatores desencadeadores da doença renal crônica (DRC), entretanto sugere-se ampliar pesquisas na área que possam comprovar a relação entre exposição a agrotóxicos e DRC.

ÉVALUATION DES RISQUES DE CONTAMINATION DE L'ENVIRONNEMENT ET DES HUMAINS PAR LES PRATIQUES D'UTILISATION DES PESTICIDES DANS LA PRODUCTION DES LÉGUMES À MBANZA – NGUNGU (RDC)

The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and practices of market gardeners in Mbanza – Ngungu regarding the use of pesticides, but also to consider the risks of contamination of the environment and related humans. To do this, surveys were conducted with 111 market gardeners in the study area, randomly selected and distributed in six market gardening sites, on the use of pesticides. The results obtained reveal the use of certain pesticides canceled in the DRC and the EU; a lack of supervision and training of market gardeners on pesticide management; poor management of pesticides considering the observed aspects; the appearance of signs of pesticide poisoning in some market gardeners; the decrease in amphibians (toad) and clarias in the Loma site, a fact attributed to the excessive use of pesticides; the involvement of children in the management of these products which are so dangerous for them. In order to reduce the risk of intoxication of market gardeners and consumers of vegetables, and of environmental pollution, it is already urgent and important that a certain number of suitable measures, in the immediate future, be taken by political and administrative decision-makers and to promote the training of market gardeners in Mbanza - Ngungu for the judicious use of pesticides.

Exposição ao praguicida glifosato e a ocorrência do transtorno do espectro autista: existe associação? / Exposure to the pesticide glyphosate and the occurrence of autistic spectrum disorder: is there an association?

O presente estudo teve como objetivo estudar a associação entre a exposição ao glifosato e a ocorrência do Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA). Trata-se de um estudo documental com busca de dados acerca da prevalência do TEA (Centers of Disease Control and Prevention) e de um levantamento para verificar o princípio ativo do praguicida mais usado no Brasil (Instituto Brasileiro do Meio Ambiente e dos Recursos Naturais Renováveis) e no mundo (United States Evironmental Prevention Agency). Os resultados mostraram que a prevalência do TEA aumentou ao longo dos anos. Do mesmo modo, o uso e a compra de praguicidas também aumentaram, sendo o glifosato o princípio ativo mais usado. Ainda que os resultados apontem a existência de uma relação entre a exposição ao glifosato e a ocorrência de autismo, são necessários mais estudos para afirmar o potencial neurotóxico do glifosato e sua associação com o nascimento de crianças autistas.

The present study aimed to study the association between exposure to glyphosate and the occurrence of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This is a documental study with search for data about the prevalence of ASD (Centers of Disease Control and Prevention) and a survey to verify the active principle of the most used pesticide in Brazil (Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources) and worldwide (United States Environmental Prevention Agency). The results showed that the prevalence of ASD increased over the years. Likewise, the use and purchase of pesticides have also increased, with glyphosate being the most widely used active ingredient in the world. Although the results point to the existence of a relationship between exposure to glyphosate and the occurrence of autism, further studies are needed to confirm the neurotoxic potential of glyphosate and its association with the birth of autistic children.

Pesticide exposure and its effects on intrauterine and postnatal development / Exposición a plaguicidas y sus efectos en el desarrollo intrauterino y posnatal

Abstract Background: The period between conception and the first two postnatal years is critical and marks the individual, largely determining their health and disease patterns. Objective: To review the effect of pesticide exposure in utero and in the 1st years of life. Materials and methods: The scientific literature in relation to the subject was reviewed, both in animal models and in humans. Results: The presence of various types of pesticides in umbilical cord blood and in meconium is well documented in newborns worldwide, including Mexico. Pesticides have been associated with low birth weight, and various birth defects at the heart, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary system, musculoskeletal system, and neurodevelopmental disorders. These substances may play a role in the increase in cases of autistic disorder. Conclusions: Despite the evidence, there are no public policies in many countries, including Mexico, to control the sale and use of pesticides. It is required to prevent exposure to these substances in the population and to do follow-up studies in mother-child pairs where exposure is suspected.

Resumen Introducción: El periodo comprendido entre la concepción y los primeros dos años posnatales es crítico y marca al individuo, determinando en buena parte sus patrones de salud y enfermedad. Objetivo: Hacer una revisión sobre el efecto de la exposición a plaguicidas en útero y en los primeros años de vida. Material y métodos: Se revisó la literatura científica en relación con el tema, tanto en modelos animales como en humanos. Resultados: La presencia de diversos tipos de plaguicidas en la sangre de cordón umbilical y en meconio está bien documentada en recién nacidos en todo el mundo, incluyendo México. Los plaguicidas se han asociado con bajo peso al nacer y diversos defectos congénitos a nivel cardiaco, del tracto gastrointestinal, sistema genitourinario y sistema musculoesquelético, así como a trastornos en el desarrollo neurológico. Estas sustancias pueden tener participación en el incremento de casos de trastorno autista. Conclusiones: A pesar de las evidencias, no existen en muchos países, incluyendo México, políticas públicas para controlar la venta y uso de plaguicidas. Se requiere prevenir la exposición a estas substancias en la población y hacer estudios de seguimiento en binomios madre-hijo donde se sospeche exposición.

Efecto de los probióticos en los niveles de glucosa y el incremento de peso en ratones expuestos a dosis bajas de malatión / Effect of probiotics on glucose levels and weight gain in mice exposed to low doses of malathion

Resumen Introducción: Debido a su capacidad para reducir la toxicidad de contaminantes ambientales que constituyen factores de riesgo de diabetes y obesidad, el uso de bacterias probióticas podría ayudar al tratamiento de esas enfermedades. Objetivo: Determinar los efectos de la exposición crónica a malatión a dosis bajas sobre el peso y los niveles de glucosa de ratones, así como evaluar el papel protector de un suplemento probiótico. Métodos: Cada 10 días se determinó el peso y la glucosa sérica de cuatro grupos de ratones (de control, expuestos a malatión (10 ppm), probióticos y malatión + probióticos) durante 180 días. Resultados: La administración de malatión provocó un incremento del peso y los niveles de glucosa en los ratones del grupo con malatión comparados con los demás grupos. Conclusiones: El consumo de alimentos contaminados con residuos de malatión aumenta los niveles de glucosa y favorece el incremento del peso; el consumo de probióticos disminuye los efectos generados por los residuos en los alimentos.

Abstract Introduction: Owing to its ability to reduce the toxicity of environmental pollutants that are risk factors for diabetes and obesity, the use of probiotic bacteria might aid the treatment of these diseases. Objective: To determine the effects of chronic exposure to low-dose malathion on weight and glucose levels in mice, as well as to evaluate the protective role of a probiotic supplement. Methods: Weight and serum glucose levels of four groups of mice (control, malathion-exposed [10 ppm], probiotics and malathion + probiotics) were determined every 10 days for 180 days. Results: Malathion administration induced an increase in weight and glucose levels in the malathion group mice in comparison with the other groups. Conclusions: Consumption of food contaminated with malathion residues increases glucose levels and favors weight gain, while consumption of probiotics reduces the effects generated by residues in food.

A "escalada" dos agrotóxicos no governo Bolsonaro / The "escalation" of pesticides in the Bolsonaro government

Resumo: O artigo objetivou analisar a "escalada" dos agrotóxicos durante o Governo Bolsonaro por meio da liberação e flexibilização de produtos químicos demandadas pelo setor de commodities. A metodologia consistiu em uma pesquisa bibliográfica, com revisão de literatura crítica e dados quantitativos sobre agrotóxicos no Brasil. Os resultados apontam um aumento substancial de liberação de agrotóxicos para o agronegócio, que provoca uma cadeia de efeitos danosos para o meio ambiente e para a sociedade.

Abstract: The article aimed to analyze the "escalation" of pesticides during the Bolsonaro Government through the release and flexibility of chemical products demanded by the commodities sector. The methodology consisted of a bibliographical research, with a critical literature review and quantitative data on pesticides in Brazil. The results point to a substantial increase in the release of pesticides for agribusiness, which causes a chain of harmful effects on the environment and society.

Uso de agrotóxicos e mortes por câncer no estado do Rio Grande do Sul / Pesticide use and cancer deaths in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar as regiões de saúde do estado do Rio Grande do Sul (RS) quanto ao uso de agrotóxicos e à mortalidade por câncer de próstata, linfoma não Hodgkin (LNH) e leucemias. Para cada região de saúde foram estimados o volume total de agrotóxicos utilizado, o volume usado por área plantada, a proporção de lavouras com uso, a proporção de agricultura familiar e o grau de desigualdade na distribuição das terras. A mortalidade pelos três tipos de câncer foi descrita com base na mortalidade proporcional e na taxa de mortalidade ajustada por idade. A associação entre as variáveis foi estimada pelo coeficiente de correlação de Spearman. A mortalidade por câncer de próstata mostrou-se relacionada à produção agrícola intensa, utilização de elevado volume de agrotóxicos e menor proporção de agricultura familiar. Já a mortalidade por linfoma não Hodgkin e leucemias esteve associada positivamente à proporção de agricultura familiar. Mortalidade proporcional e taxa de mortalidade ajustada por idade mostraram-se positivamente correlacionadas para os três tipos de câncer. Este estudo demonstrou que, nas regiões de saúde do RS, a mortalidade pelos três tipos de câncer investigados está vinculada, em diferentes intensidades, ao uso de agrotóxicos e a características da agricultura praticada.

Abstract This study characterizes the health regions of the Rio Grande do Sul State regarding pesticide use and mortality by prostate cancer, Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and leukemias. Total volume of pesticide used, volume used per planted area, the proportion of crops using pesticides, the proportion of family farming and the degree of inequality in land distribution were estimated for each region. Mortality from the three types of cancer was described by proportional mortality and age-adjusted mortality rate. Association between variables was estimated using Spearman's correlation coefficient. Prostate cancer mortality was associated with intense agricultural production, high volume of pesticide use and a lower proportion of family farming. Mortality from Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and leukemias, in turn, was positively associated with the proportion of family farming. Proportional mortality and age-adjusted mortality rate were positively correlated for the three types of cancer. In conclusion, in the health regions of Rio Grande do Sul, mortality by the three types of cancer investigated is associated, albeit at different intensities, with pesticide use and the type of agriculture practiced.

One case of myocardial damage caused by carbamate pesticide poisoning / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

The data of a patient with carbamate pesticide poisoning were analyzed. Cardiac arrest, oliguria, acute renal injury and pulmonary infection occurred during treatment. After cardiopulmonary resuscitation, tracheal intubation, CRRT, anti-infection and other symptomatic support treatment, the patient recovered and discharged. The myocardial damage caused by carbamate pesticide poisoning is easy to be ignored, and it often causes cardiac manifestations such as arrhythmia and cardiac insufficiency, and the related markers of cardiac injury, electrocardiogram and echocardiogram are also changed. Therefore, the awareness of cardiac damage caused by carbamate pesticide poisoning should be improved.

A case of poisoning caused by intramuscular injection of esfenvalerate / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Esfenvalerate is a kind of commonly used highly effective pyrethroid insecticide. It is common for people who are poisoned by contact or misuse, but rarely reported for people who are poisoned by intramuscular injection. This paper reports a case of intramuscular injection of esfenvalerate in the Department of Infection, West China Hospital of Sichuan University in November 2021. The patient was intramuscularly injected with about 20 ml of esfenvalerate, inducing the sense of swelling and tingling, degeneration and necrosis of striated muscle tissue at the injection site, also liver function damage and other manifestations. The patient was discharged from hospital after rehydration, accelerating poison metabolism, anti-infection, liver protection and local puncture.

A case of poisoning by oral lime sulfur / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Lime sulfur is a common bactericide with strong alkalinity, and is highly corrosive to humans and animals. It is rare for lime sulfur poisoning clinically. This article discusses the clinical manifestations of a patient who was poisoned by oral lime sulfur. After the poisoning, the mucosa of the lips and pharynx broke, fever, and pulmonary inflammation quickly appeared. The pulmonary CT showed slight interstitial changes in both lungs. Through high flow oxygen inhalation, fluid infusion, drainage, maintenance of water and electrolyte balance, protection of important organ functions, and other symptomatic support and treatment, as well as control of blood pressure, blood sugar, maintenance of circulatory function and other targeted measures, the patient's condition gradually improved.

Perceptions about exposure to pesticides among rural school students: identified controversies / Percepciones sobre la exposición a plaguicidas entre estudiantes de escuelas rurales: controversias identificadas / Percepções sobre a exposição aos agrotóxicos entre estudantes de escolas do campo: controvérsias identificadas

ABSTRACT Objectives: to identify, according to students' perception, controversies related to the term "pesticide" and its influence on health. Methods: field research, with qualitative analysis via discursive textual analysis. Collective interviews were carried out with students of ninth grade of elementary school from four rural schools in the western region of Paraná. Results: when analyzing students' statements, it was identified that pesticides are part of their reality and that of the local community Controversies related to pesticides and health arose, with emphasis on the form of production and the understanding of the real harm generated by exposure and use of pesticides. Conclusions: approaching pesticides in the context of education and health is essential so that there is a strengthening of discussions, in a critical and contextualized way, in school spaces, expanding the look at the topic as a way of enriching understandings and discourses on the subject.

RESUMEN Objetivos: identificar, en la percepción de los estudiantes, Ias controversias relacionadas con el término "pesticida" y su influencia en la salud. Métodos: investigación de campo, con análisis cualitativo a través del análisis textual discursivo. Se realizaron entrevistas colectivas con alumnos del noveno año de Ia enseñanza fundamental de cuatro escuelas rurales de la región occidental de Paraná. Resultados: al analizar las declaraciones de los estudiantes, se identificó que los plaguicidas son parte de su realidad y de la comunidad local. Surgieron controversias relacionadas con los plaguicidas y la salud, con énfasis en la forma de producción y la comprensión del daño real generado por Ia exposición y uso de plaguicidas. Conclusiones: abordar los plaguicidas en el contexto de Ia educación y la salud es fundamental para que haya un fortalecimiento de las discusiones, de forma crítica y contextualizada, en los espacios escolares, ampliando Ia mirada sobre ei tema como forma de enriquecer comprensiones y discursos sobre el tema.

RESUMO Objetivos: identificar, na percepção de estudantes, as controvérsias relacionadas ao termo "agrotóxico" e sua influência na saúde. Métodos: pesquisa de campo, com análise qualitativa via análise textual discursiva. Foram realizadas entrevistas coletivas com alunos do nono ano do ensino fundamental de quatro escolas do campo da região Oeste do Paraná. Resultados: ao analisar as falas dos estudantes, identificou-se que os agrotóxicos fazem parte da realidade deles e da comunidade local. Surgiram controvérsias relacionadas aos agrotóxicos e saúde, com destaque para a forma de produção e a compreensão dos reais malefícios gerados pela exposição e uso dos agrotóxicos. Conclusões: abordar os agrotóxicos no contexto da educação e saúde é essencial para que haja um fortalecimento das discussões, de forma crítica e contextualizada, nos espaços escolares, ampliando o olhar para a temática como forma de enriquecer as compreensões e os discursos sobre o tema.

Early exposure to agricultural pesticides and the occurrence of autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review / Exposição precoce a agrotóxicos de uso agrícola e ocorrência do transtorno do espectro autista: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of early exposure to agricultural pesticides and their relationship with autism spectrum disorder. Data source: This systematic review was registered at PROSPERO as CRD42020204842. The subject was systematically analyzed on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases until April 2021. Only studies with humans with early exposure to agricultural pesticides and diagnosis of autism were included. Exclusion criteria were studies on pesticides for domestic or veterinary use and late exposure. There were no language and time restriction. The quality analysis of the studies used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Data synthesis: Six case-control studies were included; three of them measured the route of exposure by maternal biomarkers and the others by the residence address. The studies had scores between moderate and high in the quality assessment tool. It was found high rates of association between early exposure to agricultural pesticides and autism and detection limit above the quantification for a sample of polychlorinated biphenyls, hexachlorobenzene, and dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene. Conclusions: There is evidence concerning the exposure to agricultural pesticides in early life and the development of the autism spectrum disorder; however, more studies are required to better understand their possible association.

RESUMO Objetivo: Compreender a influência da exposição precoce a agrotóxicos de uso agrícola e sua relação com o transtorno do espectro autista. Fontes de dados: Esta revisão sistemática foi registrada no banco de dados PROSPERO sob número CRD42020204842. Por meio das bases de dados PubMed, Scopus e Web of Science, o assunto foi analisado sistematicamente até abril de 2021. Foram incluídos somente estudos com humanos, sendo critérios de inclusão a exposição precoce a agrotóxicos de uso agrícola e o diagnóstico de autismo e critérios de exclusão agrotóxicos de uso doméstico ou veterinário e exposição tardia. Todos os estudos foram analisados sem restrição de linguagem e tempo. A qualidade dos estudos foi avaliada pela NewCastle Ottawa Scale. Síntese dos dados: No total, seis estudos caso-controle foram incluídos. Três deles mensuraram a exposição pelos biomarcadores maternos e os demais (50%) pelo endereço de moradia. Os trabalhos apresentaram qualidade entre moderada e alta. Encontrou-se alta taxa de associação entre a exposição precoce à agrotóxicos e o autismo e detecção acima do limite de quantificação para amostras de bifenilas policloradas, hexaclorobenzeno e diclorodifenildicloroetileno. Conclusões: Existem evidências sobre a exposição a agrotóxicos de uso agrícola precocemente e o desenvolvimento do transtorno do espectro autista, porém mais pesquisas são necessárias para melhor compreensão da associação.

Measurement of pesticides in hair samples from pemphigus foliaceus and pemphigus vulgaris patients in Southeastern Brazil

Abstract Background Pesticides, mainly organophosphates (OP), have been related to increased risk of pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and pemphigus foliaceus (PF), nevertheless, their measurement has not been determined in pemphigus patients. Objective To evaluate pesticide exposure and pesticide measurement, comparing PV, PF and control groups in Southeastern Brazil. Methods Information about urban or rural residency and exposure to pesticides at the onset of pemphigus was assessed by questionnaire interview; hair samples from the scalp of PV, PF, and controls were tested for OP and organochlorines (OC) by gas-phase chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Results The minority of PV (2 [7.1%] of 28) and PF (7 [18%] of 39), but none of the 48 controls, informed living in rural areas at the onset of pemphigus (p = 0.2853). PV (33.3%), PF (38.5%), and controls (20%) informed exposure to pesticides (p = 0.186). Twenty-one (14.8%) of 142 individuals tested positive for OP and/or OC: PV (2 [6.3%] of 32) and PF (11 [25.6%] of 43) had similar pesticides contamination as controls (8 [11.9%] of 67) (p = 0.4928; p = 0.0753, respectively), but PF presented higher contamination than PV (p = 0.034). PV did not present any positivity for OP. Three (7%) PF tested positive for both OP and OC. Some PF tested positive for three or four OP, mainly diazinon and dichlorvos. Study limitation Lack of data for some controls. Conclusion Although the frequency of PV and PF patients exposed to pesticides was similar, pesticides were more frequently detected in hair samples from PF compared to PV. The cause-effect relationship still needs to be determined.

Estudos epidemiológicos ocupacionais em área rural: desafios metodológicos / Epidemiological occupational studies in rural areas: methodological challenges

Resumo Introdução: a produção agrícola no Brasil tem crescido nas últimas décadas e os trabalhadores rurais estão expostos a vários riscos ocupacionais. Estudos epidemiológicos sobre o tema ainda são limitados, especialmente pela complexidade metodológica. Objetivos: apresentar os principais desafios metodológicos para a realização de estudos epidemiológicos ocupacionais rurais. Métodos: as considerações apresentadas neste artigo têm como base a literatura e a experiência dos autores como pesquisadores desta temática. Resultados: foram abordados conceitos sobre população alvo, local de moradia e trabalho, classificação dos trabalhadores e caracterização do contexto da produção agrícola. Foram exploradas as estratégias de amostragem; a caracterização dos indicadores econômicos, incluindo produção agrícola e nível de mecanização; a exposição aos agrotóxicos, como tipos químicos, formas e frequência de exposição; a intoxicação por agrotóxicos; e a disponibilidade e o uso de Equipamentos de Proteção Individual. Foram descritos os cuidados com amostras biológicas, bem como aspectos envolvendo entrevistadores, treinamentos, trabalho de campo, questões climáticas e logísticas. Conclusão: apesar dos desafios metodológicos e logísticos, com o planejamento adequado é possível realizar com êxito pesquisas de grande complexidade e de alto nível científico sobre a relação saúde-trabalho na atividade agropecuária.

Abstract Introduction: agricultural production in Brazil has grown in recent decades, and rural workers are exposed to many occupational risks. Epidemiological studies on the topic remain limited, especially regarding methodological complexity. Objectives: to present the main methodological challenges to carrying out occupational epidemiological studies in rural areas. Methods: the considerations presented in this article are based on the literature and on the experience of the authors as researchers of this thematic. Results: we approached concepts about target population, living and working place, workers classification, and agricultural production context characterization. We discussed sampling strategies, characterization of economic indicators, including agricultural production and mechanization level, pesticide exposure, such as chemical types, forms, and frequency of exposure, pesticide poisonings, and availability and use of personal protective equipment. We described the necessary care with biological samples and aspects involving interviewers, training, field work, and clinical and logistical issues. Conclusion: despite the methodological and logistical challenges, adequate planning enables successful research studies, of great complexity and high scientific level, about the health-work relationship in agricultural activity.