ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND@#Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) has become a global epidemic, and air pollution has been identified as a potential risk factor. This study aims to investigate the non-linear relationship between ambient air pollution and MASLD prevalence.@*METHOD@#In this cross-sectional study, participants undergoing health checkups were assessed for three-year average air pollution exposure. MASLD diagnosis required hepatic steatosis with at least 1 out of 5 cardiometabolic criteria. A stepwise approach combining data visualization and regression modeling was used to determine the most appropriate link function between each of the six air pollutants and MASLD. A covariate-adjusted six-pollutant model was constructed accordingly.@*RESULTS@#A total of 131,592 participants were included, with 40.6% met the criteria of MASLD. "Threshold link function," "interaction link function," and "restricted cubic spline (RCS) link functions" best-fitted associations between MASLD and PM2.5, PM10/CO, and O3 /SO2/NO2, respectively. In the six-pollutant model, significant positive associations were observed when pollutant concentrations were over: 34.64 µg/m3 for PM2.5, 57.93 µg/m3 for PM10, 56 µg/m3 for O3, below 643.6 µg/m3 for CO, and within 33 and 48 µg/m3 for NO2. The six-pollutant model using these best-fitted link functions demonstrated superior model fitting compared to exposure-categorized model or linear link function model assuming proportionality of odds.@*CONCLUSION@#Non-linear associations were found between air pollutants and MASLD prevalence. PM2.5, PM10, O3, CO, and NO2 exhibited positive associations with MASLD in specific concentration ranges, highlighting the need to consider non-linear relationships in assessing the impact of air pollution on MASLD.
Subject(s)
Humans , Nitrogen Dioxide , Cross-Sectional Studies , Air Pollution/analysis , Air Pollutants/analysis , Particulate Matter/analysis , Liver Diseases , Environmental Exposure/analysisABSTRACT
ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To identify the prevalence of contamination by pesticides and their metabolites in the milk of lactating mothers in Latin America. METHODS In this systematic review, the PubMed, LILACS, Embase, and Scopus databases were searched up to January 2022 to identify observational studies. The Mendeley software was used to manage these references. The risk of bias assessment was evaluated according to the checklist for prevalence studies and writing design, by the Prisma guidelines. RESULTS This study retrieved 1835 references and analyzed 49 studies. 69.38% of the analyzed studies found a 100% prevalence of breast milk contamination by pesticides among their sample. Main pesticides include dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its isomers (75.51%), followed by the metabolite dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE) (69.38%) and hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) (46.93%). This study categorized most (65.30%) studies as having a low risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS This review shows a high prevalence of pesticide contamination in the breast milk of Latin American women. Further investigations should be carried out to assess contamination levels in breast milk and the possible effects of these substances on maternal and child health.
Subject(s)
Humans , Female , Agrochemicals , Chemical Contamination , Environmental Exposure , Human Health , Milk, HumanABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Bioaccumulation of toxic metals in the population is associated with adverse health effects. Although some elements are essential for humans, high levels of exposure can be dangerous. OBJECTIVE: To describe the levels of Inorganic Arsenic (AsIn), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), and Mercury (Hg) in urine, and Lead (Pb) in blood in the population of Arica, Chile. METHODOLOGY: Descriptive study. Beneficiaries of the Health Surveillance Program of Law 20.590 in sites of higher risk of exposure in the commune of Arica were considered eligible. The results of biological samples to measure their concentrations of AsIn, Cd, Cr, Hg in urine, and Pb in blood between August 2016 and May 2021 are described. RESULTS: 9520 samples from a population with a mean age of 40.5 years were studied. 4.21% of the adult population and 6.57% of the children had AsIn values above 35 μg/L, while at least 95 % of the total samples had levels below 33 μg/L. At least 90 % of the samples had Cd levels below 1.1 μg/L, and 8.44 % had Cd levels above 2 μg/L, higher in males (11.67%). There were no values above the reference in children. 99.77% and 99.33% had Cr and Pb values below the reference limit, respectively (using the lowest reference range established by Chile Ministry of Health (MINSAL) < 5 μg/L). Children did not present risk values for Cr, and 0.16% presented Pb concentrations between 5-10 μg/dL. All samples presented Hg concentrations below risk levels (< 10 μg/L). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that a small percentage of the samples analyzed in the beneficiary population of Arica register metal concentration levels above national reference levels established by MINSAL, mainly AsIn, Cd, and Pb. It is essential to continue biomonitoring to reduce and prevent exposure to these metals, which can have harmful effects on human health.
ANTECEDENTES: La bioacumulación de metales en la población está asociada a efectos adversos y pueden ser peligrosos. OBJETIVO: Describir los niveles de Arsénico Inorgánico (AsIn), Cadmio (Cd), Cromo (Cr), Mercurio (Hg) y Plomo (Pb) en la población de Arica, Chile. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo. Se incluyeron todas las personas beneficiarias del Programa de Vigilancia de Salud de la Ley 20.590 en sitios de riesgo de mayor exposición en la comuna de Arica entre agosto 2016 y mayo 2021. RESULTADOS: Se estudiaron 9.520 muestras provenientes de una población con una edad media de 40.5 años. 4.21% de la población adulta y el 6.57% de los niños presentaron valores de AsIn superiores a 35 μg/L y al menos el 95% de las muestras totales tenía niveles inferiores a 33 μg/L. Más del 90 % de las muestras tuvieron niveles de Cd menores a 1.1 μg/L y un 8.44% registró niveles de Cd superiores 2 μg/L. El 99.77% y 99.33% exhibieron valores normales de Cr y Pb, respectivamente. Todas las muestras presentaron concentraciones de Hg por debajo de los niveles de riesgo (< 10 μg/L). CONCLUSIONES: Los resultados sugieren que un porcentaje pequeño de la población de Arica registra niveles de concentración de metales por sobre niveles de referencia nacional establecidos por el Ministerio de Salud de Chile, principalmente de AsIn, Cd y Pb. Es importante continuar con la vigilancia para reducir y prevenir la exposición a estos metales, que pueden generar efectos nocivos en la salud humana.
Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Female , Infant, Newborn , Child, Preschool , Child , Adolescent , Adult , Middle Aged , Aged , Young Adult , Cadmium/analysis , Cadmium/urine , Cadmium/blood , Environmental Exposure/analysis , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Lead/analysis , Lead/blood , Mercury/analysis , Mercury/urine , Mercury/blood , Arsenic/analysis , Arsenic/urine , Arsenic/blood , Chile , Environmental Monitoring , Chromium/analysis , Chromium/urine , Chromium/blood , Metals, Heavy/analysis , Metals, Heavy/urine , Metals, Heavy/bloodABSTRACT
Introducción. La salud ambiental infantil es la rama de la pediatría que estudia la influencia del medioambiente en la salud y la enfermedad de los niños. Las exposiciones ambientales globales representan una seria amenaza para la salud, lo que justifica una mayor investigación y acción. Objetivo. Evaluar la salud ambiental de una muestra de niños que viven en áreas urbanas y rurales de la ciudad de Uruguaiana, Brasil. Población y métodos. Se incluyeron padres/tutores (n = 714) de niños atendidos en el Policlínico Infantil de la Ciudad de Uruguaiana de enero a octubre de 2021, que respondieron la anamnesis ambiental en pediatría (Sociedad Brasileña de Pediatría). Los datos obtenidos se analizaron según la residencia en zona urbana o rural, o el ingreso familiar. Resultados. Al comparar los habitantes de la zona urbana (n = 660) con los de la zona rural (n = 54), verificamos que entre los de la zona rural fue significativamente mayor la actividad con productos químicos (15 % vs. 32,7 %; p = 0,004), vivir cerca de plantación (7,5 % vs. 74,5 %; p <0,001) o con fuente de contaminación (4,8 % vs. 32,7 %; p <0,001), tener perro (62 % vs. 87,3 %; p <0,001), usar plaguicidas (0,6 % vs. 32,7 %; p <0,001) y exposición a contaminación química (2,6 % vs. 18,2 %; p <0,001). En el área urbana predominó la exposición al tránsito de vehículos cerca de la vivienda (85 % vs. 48,1 %; p <0,001), renta media inferior a 3 salarios mínimos (90 %) y baja escolaridad. Conclusión. Realizar la anamnesis ambiental es fundamental para la detección de amenazas ambientales presentes en los lugares donde los niños y adolescentes viven, aprenden, juegan y estudian.
Introduction. Children's environmental health studies the influence of the environment on health and disease in children. Global environmental exposures pose a serious threat to health, warranting further research and action. Objective. To assess the environmental health of a sample of children living in urban and rural areas in Uruguaiana, Brazil. Population and methods. We included parents/legal guardians (n = 714) of children seen at Policlinica Infantil de Uruguaiana between January and October 2021, who completed the environmental history- taking in pediatrics (Brazilian Society of Pediatrics). Collected data were analyzed based on place of residence (urban or rural) or household income. Results. The comparison between inhabitants of the urban area (n = 660) and the rural area (n = 54) established that, among those living in the rural area, activity with chemical substances (15% versus 32.7%; p = 0.004), living near a plantation (7.5% versus 74.5%; p < 0.001) or near a source of contamination (4.8% versus 32.7%; p < 0.001), having a dog (62% versus 87.3%; p < 0.001), using pesticides (0.6% versus 32.7%; p < 0.001), and exposure to chemical contamination (2.6% versus 18.2%; p < 0.001) were significantly higher. In the urban area, exposure to vehicle traffic near the house (85% versus 48.1%; p < 0.001), an average income below 3 minimum wages (90%), and a low level of education predominated. Conclusion. Environmental history-taking is critical for the detection of environmental threats present in the areas where children and adolescents live, learn, play, and study
Subject(s)
Humans , Animals , Child , Rural Population , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Urban Population , Brazil , Pilot Projects , DogsABSTRACT
Introducción. El material particulado (PM) es uno de los contaminantes del aire que mayor implicación tienen en la aparición o exacerbación de cuadros respiratorios en niños. Objetivo. Describir las características de las consultas por enfermedades respiratorias agudas en menores de 15 años, los niveles de PM en el aire, y analizar la asociación existente entre ellos en un sector de Bahía Blanca entre abril de 2019 y marzo de 2020. Población y métodos. Estudio ecológico de series temporales y grupos múltiples. Análisis descriptivo de consultas totales, por área, diagnóstico, y del PM. Modelo de correlación y regresión lineal generalizado para determinar la relación entre las variables. Se utilizó el programa SPSS®. Resultados. Se recopilaron 4787 consultas. Un 38,6 % (1846) correspondieron a rinitis y un 21,1 % (1011) a broncoespasmo. El PM de 10 nm (PM10) superó su valor límite el 31 % (115) de los días de estudio y el de 2,5 nm (PM2,5) un 3 % (8). Un aumento del 10 % del PM2,5 demostró incrementos de 1,3 % en las consultas totales; el incremento llegó al 2,1 % en el área más cercana al sector industrial (p <0,05). En esta última, el aumento del 10 % de los valores de PM10 se asoció al aumento del 1,8 % de las consultas (p <0,05). Conclusión. Se demostró asociación positiva entre las consultas por enfermedad respiratoria aguda y los niveles de PM del aire, sobre todo con el PM2,5 y en el área más cercana al sector industrial.
Introduction. Particulate matter (PM) is one of the air pollutants most involved in the onset or exacerbation of respiratory conditions in children. Objective. To describe the characteristics of consultations for acute respiratory diseases in children younger than 15 years and the levels of PM in the air and to analyze their association in a sector of Bahía Blanca between April 2019 and March 2020. Population and methods. Ecological, time-series study with multiple groups. Descriptive analysis of total number of consultations, by area, diagnosis, and PM. Generalized linear correlation and regression model to determine the relationship among variables. The SPSS® software was used. Results. Data from 4787 consultations were collected. Of these, 38.6% (1846) were related to rhinitis and 21.1% (1011), to bronchospasm. PM of 10 nm (PM10) exceeded its limit value on 31% (115) of the study days, and PM of 2.5 nm (PM2.5), on 3% (8). A 10% increase in PM2.5 showed increases of 1.3% in total consultations; the increase reached 2.1% in the area closest to the industrial sector (p < 0.05). In the latter, a 10% increase in PM10 was associated with an increase of 1.8% in consultations (p < 0.05). Conclusion. A positive association was evidenced between consultations for acute respiratory diseases and PM levels in the air, especially with PM2.5 and in the area closest to the industrial sector.
Subject(s)
Humans , Infant , Child, Preschool , Child , Adolescent , Respiratory Tract Diseases/diagnosis , Respiratory Tract Diseases/therapy , Respiratory Tract Diseases/epidemiology , Air Pollution/adverse effects , Argentina , Air Pollution/analysis , Environmental Exposure/analysis , Particulate Matter/analysisABSTRACT
In China, the level of ambient fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) pollution far exceeds the air quality standards recommended by the World Health Organization. Moreover, the health effects of PM 2.5 exposure have become a major public health issue. More than half of PM 2.5 -related excess deaths are caused by cardiopulmonary disease, which has become a major health risk associated with PM 2.5 pollution. In this review, we discussed the latest epidemiological advances relating to the health effects of PM 2.5 on cardiopulmonary diseases in China, including studies relating to the effects of PM 2.5 on mortality, morbidity, and risk factors for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. These data provided important evidence to highlight the cardiopulmonary risk associated with PM 2.5 across the world. In the future, further studies need to be carried out to investigate the specific relationship between the constituents and sources of PM 2.5 and cardiopulmonary disease. These studies provided scientific evidence for precise reduction measurement of pollution sources and public health risks. It is also necessary to identify effective biomarkers and elucidate the biological mechanisms and pathways involved; this may help us to take steps to reduce PM 2.5 pollution and reduce the incidence of cardiopulmonary disease.
Subject(s)
Humans , Particulate Matter/analysis , Air Pollution/adverse effects , Risk Factors , Respiratory Tract Diseases , China/epidemiology , Environmental Exposure/adverse effectsABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE@#This study aimed to investigate the association of ambient PM2.5 exposure with blood pressure (BP) at the population level in China.@*METHODS@#A total of 14,080 participants who had at least two valid blood pressure records were selected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey during 2011-2015. Their long-term PM2.5 exposure was assessed at the geographical level, on the basis of a regular 0.1° × 0.1° grid over China. A mixed-effects regression model was used to assess associations.@*RESULTS@#Each decrease of 10 μg/m3 in the 1 year-mean PM2.5 concentration (FPM1Y) was associated with a decrease of 1.24 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84-1.64] mmHg systolic BP (SBP) and 0.50 (95% CI: 0.25-0.75) mmHg diastolic BP (DBP), respectively. A robust association was observed between the long-term decrease in PM2.5 and decreased BP in the middle-aged and older population. Using a generalized additive mixed model, we further found that SBP increased nonlinearly overall with FPM1Y but in an approximately linear range when the FPM1Y concentration was < 70 µg/m3; In contrast, DBP increased approximately linearly without a clear threshold.@*CONCLUSION@#Efficient control of PM2.5 air pollution may promote vascular health in China. Our study provides robust scientific support for making the related air pollution control policies.
Subject(s)
Middle Aged , Humans , Aged , Particulate Matter/analysis , Blood Pressure , Air Pollutants/analysis , Follow-Up Studies , Hypertension/etiology , East Asian People , Environmental Exposure/analysis , Air Pollution/analysis , China/epidemiologyABSTRACT
Objective To explore the overall level,distribution characteristics,and differences in household fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution caused by fuel burning in urban and rural areas in China. Methods The relevant articles published from 1991 to 2021 were retrieved and included in this study.The data including the average concentration of household PM2.5 and urban and rural areas were extracted,and the stoves and fuel types were reclassified.The average concentration of PM2.5 in different areas was calculated and analyzed by nonparametric test. Results The average household PM2.5 concentration in China was (178.81±249.91) μg/m3.The mean household PM2.5 concentration was higher in rural areas than in urban areas[(206.08±279.40) μg/m3 vs. (110.63±131.16) μg/m3;Z=-5.45,P<0.001] and higher in northern areas than in southern areas[(224.27±301.66) μg/m3 vs.(130.11±140.61) μg/m3;Z=-2.38,P=0.017].The north-south difference in household PM2.5 concentration was more significant in rural areas than in urban areas[(324.19±367.94) μg/m3 vs.(141.20±151.05) μg/m3,χ2=-5.06,P<0.001].The PM2.5 pollution level showed differences between urban and rural households using different fuel types (χ2=92.85,P<0.001),stove types (χ2=74.42,P<0.001),and whether they were heating (Z=-4.43,P<0.001).Specifically,rural households mainly used solid fuels (manure,charcoal,coal) and traditional or improved stoves,while urban households mainly used clean fuels (gas) and clean stoves.The PM2.5 concentrations in heated households were higher than those in non-heated households in both rural and urban areas (Z=-4.43,P<0.001). Conclusions The household PM2.5 pollution caused by fuel combustion in China remains a high level.The PM2.5 concentration shows a significant difference between urban and rural households,and the PM2.5 pollution is more serious in rural households.The difference in the household PM2.5 concentration between urban and rural areas is more significant in northern China.PM2.5 pollution in the households using solid fuel,traditional stoves,and heating is serious,and thus targeted measures should be taken to control PM2.5 pollution in these households.
Subject(s)
Humans , Particulate Matter/analysis , Air Pollution, Indoor/analysis , Cooking , Environmental Exposure/analysis , China , Rural PopulationABSTRACT
BACKGROUND@#Few studies have explored the impact of perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate (PNT) on kidney function. This study aimed to evaluate the association of urinary levels of PNT with renal function as well as the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) among the general population in the United States.@*METHODS@#This analysis included data from 13,373 adults (≥20 years) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005 to 2016. We used multivariable linear and logistic regression, to explore the associations of urinary PNT with kidney function. Restricted cubic splines were used to assess the potentially non-linear relationships between PNT exposure and outcomes.@*RESULTS@#After traditional creatinine adjustment, perchlorate (P-traditional) was positively associated with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (adjusted β: 2.75; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.25 to 3.26; P < 0.001), and negatively associated with urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) (adjusted β: -0.05; 95% CI: -0.07 to -0.02; P = 0.001) in adjusted models. After both traditional and covariate-adjusted creatinine adjustment, urinary nitrate and thiocyanate were positively associated with eGFR (all P values <0.05), and negatively associated with ACR (all P values <0.05); higher nitrate or thiocyanate was associated with a lower risk of CKD (all P values <0.001). Moreover, there were L-shaped non-linear associations between nitrate, thiocyanate, and outcomes. In the adjusted models, for quartiles of PNT, statistically significant dose-response associations were observed in most relationships. Most results were consistent in the stratified and sensitivity analyses.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Exposures to PNT might be associated with kidney function, indicating a potential beneficial effect of environmental PNT exposure (especially nitrate and thiocyanate) on the human kidney.
Subject(s)
Adult , Humans , United States/epidemiology , Nitrates/adverse effects , Nutrition Surveys , Thiocyanates/urine , Perchlorates/urine , Creatinine , Environmental Exposure , Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/epidemiology , Logistic ModelsABSTRACT
Atopic dermatitis(AD)is a chronic, recurrent, inflammatory skin disease in children. The disease is characterized by dryness, chronic eczema-like lesions and obvious itching, seriously affecting the quality of life of children and their families. The pathogenesis of AD is not yet to be clear, and it might be the interaction of genetic susceptibility and environmental exposure to induce skin barrier impairment and immune system dysfunction. In recent years, the role of maternal factors or intrauterine environment exposure on childhood allergic diseases has been attracted attention, and the hypothesis that allergic diseases originate from the fetal period has been postulated. Maternal exposures called "early life exposure", such as nutritional factors during pregnancy (folate, vitamin D, vitamin E and polyunsaturated fatty acid) and tobacco exposure, home environmental exposure may be related with childhood atopic dermatitis. This article would focus on the recent research about maternal nutritional factors and family environmental exposure during pregnancy on offspring's atopic dermatitis.
Subject(s)
Child , Female , Pregnancy , Humans , Dermatitis, Atopic , Quality of Life , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Maternal Exposure/adverse effects , FamilyABSTRACT
Atopic dermatitis(AD)is a chronic, recurrent, inflammatory skin disease in children. The disease is characterized by dryness, chronic eczema-like lesions and obvious itching, seriously affecting the quality of life of children and their families. The pathogenesis of AD is not yet to be clear, and it might be the interaction of genetic susceptibility and environmental exposure to induce skin barrier impairment and immune system dysfunction. In recent years, the role of maternal factors or intrauterine environment exposure on childhood allergic diseases has been attracted attention, and the hypothesis that allergic diseases originate from the fetal period has been postulated. Maternal exposures called "early life exposure", such as nutritional factors during pregnancy (folate, vitamin D, vitamin E and polyunsaturated fatty acid) and tobacco exposure, home environmental exposure may be related with childhood atopic dermatitis. This article would focus on the recent research about maternal nutritional factors and family environmental exposure during pregnancy on offspring's atopic dermatitis.
Subject(s)
Child , Female , Pregnancy , Humans , Dermatitis, Atopic , Quality of Life , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Maternal Exposure/adverse effects , FamilyABSTRACT
Background: Environmental exposure to toxins has been strongly implicated in its multi-faceted etiology of chronic kidney disease, a serious public health problem affecting individuals, families, and communities. There is a need to synthesize available studies on the effect of heavy metal exposure on renal function, considering the rising global burden of kidney disease. The objective of this study is to determine the association between exposure to heavy metals and renal disease. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) were used to conduct the review. A comprehensive independent search, title, abstract, and full-text screening of available literature on Google Scholar, PubMed, and OAREScience was done between March 2021 and May 2021. The criteria for study inclusion were full-text articles published in English language in the last 20 years (2001-2020), and observational primary human studies reporting the association between heavy metal exposure and renal disease. The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Results: A total of 552 studies were identified following the search from the different databases. A total of 13 studies were finally included in the review. Heavy metals implicated in the studies include cadmium, lead, mercury, and arsenic, with ten studies showing environmental exposure as the primary source. Ten (10) studies showed an association between heavy metal exposure and renal impairment (p<0.05) while only 3 studies reported no association. Conclusion: Environmental monitoring is needed to stem the tide of heavy metal exposure in view of the growing burden of chronic kidney disease.
Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Female , Metals, Heavy , Environmental Exposure , Renal Insufficiency, Chronic , Systematic ReviewABSTRACT
Background: Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) is a laborious process often executed with rudimentary low-technology mining equipment. It exposes miners to a myriad of occupational hazards, which may increase health and safety disparities between them and formally employed mine workers. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to identify workplace hazards and the associated risks; and to assess the effects of mining activities on the health and environment of artisanal diamond miners in Kimberley, Northern Cape province. Methods: This was an interdisciplinary observational ethnographic study. A workplace assessment was undertaken at seven sites in Kimberley. Participants were conveniently selected; snowballing was used to recruit additional participants. Field notes were recorded from observations. Interview questions included those about the duration of artisanal mining, and the risks faced in the workplace. Data collection included photographic documentation. An inductive and deductive process was used to analyse the data and thematic analysis was conducted. Results: The observed occupational hazards included physical (ultraviolet radiation exposure, injuries due to trauma), respiratory (silica dust exposure), biomechanical (heavy lifting, repetitive movement), and psychological (work-related stress, anxiety) hazards. There was a paucity of access to, and use of, personal protective equipment (PPE). Workers improvised ways to protect themselves, e.g. by using cloths as masks. There was no recourse to formal occupational health services and social safety networks. Conclusion: Occupational health and safety challenges included physical, biomechanical, respiratory, and psychosocial hazards. The mining activities had a detrimental impact on the environment.
Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Female , Mental Health , Occupational Health , Environmental ExposureABSTRACT
Introdução: O trabalho informal é acompanhado de diversas particularidades, além do manuseio de produtos químicos sem equipamentos adequados, pode acontecer a exposição passiva de familiares ou amigos próximos, como por exemplo as crianças. Na cidade de Limeira, no interior de São Paulo, há a produção informal de joias e bijuterias, envolvendo atividades que vão desde a montagem de peças até a solda. Objetivos: este estudo avaliou a exposição de crianças à poeiras contendo metais, nas residências de trabalhadores informais e domiciliares da cadeia produtiva de joias e bijuterias de Limeira. Método: foram coletadas amostras de poeira com lenços eletrostáticos em 21 domicílios do grupo exposto e 23 do grupo controle e determinados os Elementos Potencialmente Tóxicos (EPT) Cr, Sn, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb e As, nos ambientes. As análises foram realizadas no Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas do Estado de São Paulo (IPT), por ICP-MS. Também, foram cedidos os resultados das concentrações de EPT no sangue de uma subamostra de crianças, presentes na população de estudo, pela coordenadora do projeto (KPKO). Resultados: As concentrações de Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd e Sn na poeira doméstica foram significativamente maiores no grupo exposto (<0,05), assim como as concentrações de Pb e Cd no sangue das crianças do grupo exposto (<0,05). As concentrações de EPT na poeira doméstica e no sangue das crianças apresentaram correlação moderada para Cr (Coeficiente de Correlação de Spearman (Rho) 0,40), Zn (Rho -0,43) e As (Rho 0,40), e uma forte correlação para Cd (Rho 0,80) (p <0,05). Conclusões: Os resultados do estudo apontaram riscos para a exposição infantil ao Cd, As e Cr durante a produção informal e doméstica de joias e bijuterias, salientando a importância de proteger a saúde infantil através da promoção de ações de segurança. Adicionalmente, os lenços eletrostáticos se mostraram ferramentas de baixo custo e eficazes para avaliação da exposição a EPT.
Introduction: Informal work is followed by several particularities, besides the handling of chemicals without proper equipment, there may happen the passive exposure of family members or close friends, such as children. In the city of Limeira, in the interior of São Paulo, there is informal jewelry production, involving activities ranging from assembling pieces to welding. Objectives: This study evaluated the exposure of children to dust containing metals in the homes of informal and home-based workers in the jewelry production industry in Limeira. Method: dust samples were collected with electrostatic cloths from 21 households in the exposed group and 23 in the control group, and the Potentially Toxic Elements (PTE) Cr, Sn, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, and As were determined in the environments. The analyses were carried out at the Technological Research Institute of the State of São Paulo (IPT), by ICP-MS. Also, the results of PTE concentrations in the blood of a subsample of children, present in the study population, were provided by the project coordinator (KPKO). Results: Concentrations of Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd and Sn in household dust were significantly higher in the exposed group (<0.05), as were concentrations of Pb and Cd in the blood of children in the exposed group (<0.05). PTE concentrations in house dust and children's blood showed moderate correlation for Cr (Spearman's Correlation Coefficient (Rho) 0.40), Zn (Rho -0.43) and As (Rho 0.40), and a strong correlation for Cd (Rho 0.80) (p <0.05). Conclusions: The results of the study indicated risks for children's exposure to Cd, As and Cr during informal, domestic jewelry production, highlighting the importance of protecting children's health by promoting safety actions. Additionally, electrostatic cloths proved to be low-cost and effective tools for assessing exposure to PTE.
Subject(s)
Humans , Child, Preschool , Child , Child Health , Air Pollution, Indoor , Dust , Environmental Exposure , Jewelry , Informal Sector , MetalsABSTRACT
Introducción. El cáncer de mama es el tipo de cáncer que genera más muertes en mujeres en el mundo. Aunque se reconoce el aporte de factores genéticos, hormonales y de estilos de vida como sus principales causas, las hipótesis que señalan que la contaminación del ambiente juega un papel importante en su desarrollo, han tomado mucha fuerza en los últimos años. Estas hipótesis surgen debido a que el aumento en la incidencia del cáncer de mama coincide con procesos de industrialización, además de mayor presencia en regiones urbanas y con altos niveles de contaminación. El objetivo de este artículo fue consolidar información sobre los mecanismos fisiopatológicos que puedan explicar la relación entre cáncer de mama y la contaminación por material particulado. Metodología. Se realizó una búsqueda de literatura en PubMed, Google Académico y Epistemonikos para documentos publicados sobre el tema desde enero de 2016 hasta el 3 de agosto de 2022. Resultados. Se encontró que algunos de los mecanismos que podrían explicar dicha relación incluyen: alteraciones endocrinas que favorecen cambios hormonales, induciendo el crecimiento mamario; cambios en las características histológicas del tejido normal, como involución reducida de unidades lobulares ductales terminales; formación de aductos de hidrocarburos aromáticos policíclicos-ácido desoxirribonucleico (HAP-ADN), con mutación específica del gen TP53; activación de la proliferación en la línea celular MCF-7; y, alteraciones en la metilación del ADN. Conclusión. Si bien órganos distales como la mama no son la primera entrada de los contaminantes ambientales al cuerpo, estos sí pueden verse afectados tras la exposición a largo plazo, a través de diferentes mecanismos de disrupción endocrina y daño al ADN principalmente
Breast cancer is the type of cancer that causes the most deaths in women worldwide. Although the contribution of genetic, hormonal and lifestyle factors are recognized as its main causes, the hypotheses that indicate that environmental pollution has an important role in its development have taken on great strength during the last years. These hypotheses are based on the increase in the incidence of breast cancer that coincides with industrialization processes, in addition to its greater presence in urban regions with high levels of pollution. The aim of this study was to consolidate information on the pathophysiological mechanisms that can explain the relationship between breast cancer and air pollution by particulate matter. Methodology. A literature search was carried out in PubMed, Google Scholar and Epistemonikos for documents published on this topic from January 2016 until August 3rd 2022. Results. Some of the mechanisms that could explain this association include endocrine alterations that favor hormonal changes, inducing breast growth; changes in the histological characteristics of normal tissue such as reduced involution of terminal duct lobular units; formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons-deoxyribonucleic acid (PAH-DNA) adducts, with specific mutation of the TP53 gene; an increase in cell proliferation in the MCF-7 cell line; and alterations in DNA methylation. Conclusion. Although distal organs such as the breast are not the entry site of environmental pollutants into the body, they can be affected after prolonged exposure, mainly through different mechanisms of endocrine disruption and DNA damage
Subject(s)
Humans , Female , Breast Neoplasms/etiology , Environmental Exposure/adverse effects , Particulate Matter/adverse effects , Breast Neoplasms/physiopathology , Air PollutionABSTRACT
Introduction: The herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is one of the most widely used pesticides in the world. There is evidence that this herbicide can induce deleterious effects in non-target organisms, including impairment of reproduction function. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the reproductive effects of the chronic consumption of contaminated feed with 2,4-D in rats using food environmental spraying simulation. Methods: Animals orally exposed received nebulized chow with 2,4-D solution in different concentrations for 180 days: 0 (control - CG), 20.69 (LCG), 34.63 (MCG), or 51.66 ppm day−1 (HCG). Results: Sperm quality was impaired to 2,4-D. The percentage of sperm with progressive movement, number of sperm in the testis and daily sperm production were decreased in all exposed groups to the herbicide compared to CG. Sperm counts in the caput/corpus and cauda epididymis were reduced in MCG and HCG, and sperm transit time was delayed in the epididymis of LCG. There was a negative impact on sperm morphology and plasma membrane integrity in MCG and HCG, respectively. Germ cell exfoliation within the lumen of the seminiferous tubules and epithelial vacuolization in epididymis were found in the HCG. Conclusion: This is the first study to describe the negative impact on male reproductive morphophysiology after chronic exposure to 2,4-D using food nebulization in environmentally relevant concentrations, based on agronomic use of the herbicide. The reproductive injuries identified raise concerns about the impacts of wide population exposure to 2,4-D (AU).
Introdução: O herbicida 2,4- ácido diclorofenoxiacético (2,4-D) é um dos agrotóxicos mais utilizados no mundo. Há evidências de que este herbicida pode induzir efeitos deletérios em organismos não-alvo, incluindo prejuízo na função reprodutiva. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos reprodutivos do consumo crônico de ração contaminada com 2,4-D em ratos, utilizando simulação de pulverização ambiental de alimentos. Métodos: Animais expostos oralmente receberam ração nebulizada com solução de 2,4-D em diferentes concentrações por 180 dias: 0 (controle - GC), 20,69 (LCG), 34,63 (MCG) ou 51,66 ppm dia−1 (HCG). Resultados: A qualidade espermática foi prejudicada pelo 2,4-D. A porcentagem de espermatozoides com movimento progressivo, número de espermatozoides no testículo e produção diária de espermatozoides foram menores em todos os grupos expostos ao herbicida, quando comparados ao GC. A contagem de espermatozoides na cabeça/corpo e cauda do epidídimo foi reduzida em MCG e HCG, e o tempo de trânsito espermático atrasou no epidídimo em LCG. Houve impacto negativo na morfologia espermática e na integridade da membrana plasmática em MCG e HCG, respectivamente. Esfoliação de células germinativas no lúmen dos túbulos seminíferos e vacuolização epitelial no epidídimo foram encontradas em HCG. Conclusão: Este é o primeiro estudo a descrever o impacto negativo na morfofisiologia reprodutiva masculina após exposição crônica ao 2,4-D, utilizando nebulização de alimentos em concentrações ambientalmente relevantes, com base no uso agronômico do herbicida. As lesões reprodutivas identificadas levantam preocupações sobre os impactos da ampla exposição da população ao 2,4-D (AU).
Subject(s)
Animals , Rats , Reproduction , Spermatozoa , Agrochemicals/toxicity , Pesticide Exposure , Environmental ExposureABSTRACT
Introducción: en Uruguay se registró entre diciembre de 2020 y marzo de 2021 un aumento sostenido en la transmisión comunitaria del virus SARS-CoV-2, llegando a un índice de Harvard IP7 de 24,07. Considerando las consecuencias negativas del cierre escolar y que, a diferencia de los adultos, los niños son menos vulnerables y transmiten menos la infección, a pesar del contexto epidemiológico se decidió retomar la presencialidad parcial en centros educativos. Resulta necesario analizar las características de la transmisión en dichos centros para evaluar el impacto de las medidas de mitigación. Objetivo: describir las características de la transmisión de la infección por SARS-CoV-2 en una serie de niños asistidos en un prestador privado de salud con exposición de riesgo en centros educativos. Metodología: estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo de los menores de 15 años con infección por SARS-CoV-2 con exposición de riesgo en centros educativos asistidos en marzo de 2021. Se describieron variables clínicas (edad, sexo, manifestaciones clínicas, evolución), características de la exposición (caso índice, cumplimiento de medidas de distanciamiento físico, uso de mascarilla) y casos secundarios. La fuente de datos fue la historia clínica complementada con encuesta telefónica a madre, padre y/o tutor. Resultados: presentaron exposición de riesgo en centros educativos 198 de los 804 menores de 15 años con infección por SARS-CoV-2 (24,6%). Media edad 8 años, 51% de sexo femenino. Fueron asintomáticos 53% y presentaron síntomas leves 47%. Ninguno requirió hospitalización ni presentó complicaciones post infecciosas al momento de la comunicación. El caso índice fue un adulto en 64% y un niño en 36%. Refirieron haber cumplido medidas de distanciamiento físico 45% y uso de mascarilla 60%. En el 45% se produjeron casos secundarios en el hogar, uno de ellos falleció (65 años, diabetes mellitus tipo 2). Conclusiones: en este escenario con elevados índices de circulación comunitaria, más de la cuarta parte de los niños de esta serie adquirieron la infección en un centro educativo, mayoritariamente a partir de un adulto. Si bien la mayoría de los niños fueron asintomáticos o desarrollaron formas leves de la enfermedad, una proporción importante continuó la cadena de transmisión y generó casos secundarios intradomiciliarios. Es posible que el incumplimiento de las medidas de distanciamiento físico y en el uso de mascarilla sumado a la circulación de la VOC gamma (P1) en etapas tempranas de la campaña de vacunación, expliquen estos hallazgos. El análisis de la dinámica de la transmisión resulta imprescindible para optimizar las medidas de mitigación de la pandemia.
Introduction: in Uruguay, between December 2020 and March 2021, there was a steady increase in community transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus when it reached a Harvard IP7 index of 24.07. Considering the negative consequences of closing down schools and the fact that, unlike adults, children are less vulnerable and transmit the infection less, it was decided to resume partial school attendance, despite the epidemiological situation. It is necessary to analyze the characteristics of the transmission in these centers to evaluate the impact of the mitigation measures. Objective: describe the characteristics of the transmission of SARS CoV-2 infection in several children at risk of exposure at their schools and assisted by a private health provider. Methodology: descriptive, retrospective study of children under 15 years of age with SARS-CoV-2 infection at risk exposure at educational centers in March 2021. Clinical variables (age, sex, clinical manifestations, evolution), characteristics of exposure (index case, compliance with physical distancing measures, wear of face masks) and secondary cases. The data source was health medical records and a supplementary telephone survey to the mother, father and/or guardian. Results: 198 of the 804 children under 15 years of age with SARS-CoV-2 infection (24.6%) presented risk exposure at their educational centers. Average age 8 years, 51% female. 53% were asymptomatic and 47% had mild symptoms. None required hospitalization or presented post-infectious complications at the time of communication. The index case was an adult in 64% and a child in 36%. They reported having complied with physical distance restrictions 45% and use of a mask 60%. In 45% secondary cases occurred at home, one of them died (65 years old, type 2 diabetes mellitus). Conclusions: in this scenario with high rates of community circulation, more than a quarter of the children in this series acquired the infection in an educational center, mostly from an adult. Although most of the children were asymptomatic or developed mild forms of the disease, a significant proportion continued the chain of transmission and generated secondary intradomiciliary cases. It is possible that lack of compliance with physical distancing protocols and with the use of the mask, added to the circulation of gamma VOC (P1) in the early stages of the vaccination campaign and can explain these findings. Analysis of the transmission dynamics is essential to optimize pandemic mitigation measures.
Introdução: no Uruguai, entre dezembro de 2020 e março de 2021, houve um aumento gradativo da transmissão comunitária do vírus SARS-CoV-2, atingindo um índice Harvard IP7 de 24,07. Considerando as consequências negativas do encerramento das escolas e que, ao contrário dos adultos, as crianças são menos vulneráveis e transmitem menos a infecção, apesar do contexto epidemiológico, decidiu-se retomar a presença parcial nos centros educativos. É necessário analisar as características da transmissão nesses centros para avaliar o impacto das medidas de mitigação. Objetivo: descrever as características da transmissão da infecção por SARS CoV-2 em uma série de crianças atendidas numa assistência privada de saúde com exposição de risco em centros educacionais. Metodologia: estudo descritivo, retrospectivo de crianças menores de 15 anos de idade com infecção por SARS-CoV-2 com exposição de risco em centros educacionais atendidos em março de 2021. Variáveis clínicas (idade, sexo, manifestações clínicas, evolução), características da exposição (caso índice), cumprimento das medidas de distanciamento físico, uso de máscara) e casos secundários. A fonte de dados foi a história clínica complementada por uma enquete telefônica à mãe, pai e/ou responsável. Resultados: 198 das 804 crianças menores de 15 anos com infecção por SARS-CoV-2 (24,6%) apresentaram exposição de risco em centros educacionais. Idade média 8 anos, 51% do sexo feminino. 53% eram assintomáticas e 47% apresentavam sintomas leves. Nenhuma delas precisou de internação ou apresentou complicações pós-infecciosas no momento da comunicação. O caso índice foi um adulto em 64% e uma criança em 36%. Relataram ter cumprido as medidas de distanciamento físico 45% e uso de máscara 60%. Em 45% dos casos secundários ocorreram em casa, um deles faleceu (65 anos, diabetes mellitus tipo 2). Conclusões: neste cenário com altas taxas de circulação comunitária, mais de um quarto das crianças desta série adquiriram a infecção em um centro educacional, principalmente de um adulto. Embora a maioria das crianças fosse assintomática ou desenvolvesse formas leves da doença, uma proporção significativa continuou a cadeia de transmissão e gerou casos secundários intradomiciliares. É possível que a falta de cumprimento das medidas de distanciamento físico e do uso de máscara, somados à circulação de VOC gama (P1) nas fases iniciais da campanha de vacinação, expliquem esses achados. A análise da dinâmica de transmissão é essencial para otimizar as medidas de mitigação da pandemia.
Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Female , Infant, Newborn , Infant , Child, Preschool , Child , Schools , Family , Environmental Exposure/statistics & numerical data , COVID-19/transmission , Uruguay/epidemiology , Retrospective Studies , COVID-19/diagnosisABSTRACT
Según la Organización Internacional del Trabajo (OIT) se estima que 2,34 millones de personas mueren cada año a causa de accidentes y enfermedades relacionados con el trabajo. Entre las áreas hospitalarias, la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) es considerada como la más tensa, traumática y agresiva, que ha pesar de la pesada rutina de trabajo, los peligros a la que el personal de enfermería (enfermeros, técnicos y asistentes) está continuamente expuesto. No sólo el medio ambiente es insalubre, sino que dada la ocurrencia frecuente de situaciones de emergencia y la alta concentración de pacientes en estado crítico que se someten a cambios en su estado de salud. El personal de enfermería la UCI tienen un mayor riesgo relacionado con los peligros biológicos, ya que están expuestos a organismos infecciosos durante los procedimientos invasivos y no invasivos. En ese sentido, este trabajo busca indagar sobre percepción acerca de la exposición a los riesgos biológicos para las enfermeras que laboran en la UCI en el Hospital Alberto Sabogal Sologuren, Perú. Los resultados llevados con las trabajadoras de la salud de Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos en el Hospital Alberto Sabogal indicaron que en general, las enfermeras de ese centro asistencial hacen uso de buenas prácticas de riesgo, siendo el de mayor prevalecencia (71%) el relacionado con los principios de bioseguridad, y siendo el de menor cuidado (37%), el referente al lavado de las manos antes y después de tener contacto con los pacientes. Es preocupante, que un porcentaje bajo de enfermeras, entre un 5 y 22% respondieron algunas veces a las prácticas de riesgo, siendo un factor importante de contaminación o peligro con su salud(AU)
According to the International Labor Organization (ILO), an estimated 2.34 million people die each year from work-related accidents and diseases. Among the hospital areas, the intensive care unit (ICU) is considered the most tense, traumatic and aggressive, which has despite the heavy work routine, the dangers to which the nursing staff (nurses, technicians and assistants) They are continually exposed. Not only is the environment unhealthy, but given the frequent occurrence of emergency situations and the high concentration of critically ill patients undergoing changes in their health status. ICU nursing staff are at increased risk related to biohazards, as they are exposed to infectious organisms during invasive and non-invasive procedures. In this sense, this work seeks to investigate the perception of exposure to biological risks for nurses who work in the ICU at the Alberto Sabogal Sologuren Hospital, Peru. The results carried out with the health workers of the Intensive Care Unit at the Alberto Sabogal Hospital indicated that in general, the nurses of this care center make use of good risk practices, with the highest prevalence (71%) being related to the principles of biosafety, and being the least careful (37%), the reference to washing hands before and after having contact with patients. It is worrisome that a low percentage of nurses, between 5 and 22% sometimes responded to risk practices, being an important factor of contamination or danger to their health(AU)