Air pollution - health impacts

Title

Do toxic heavy metals affect antioxidant defense mechanisms in humans?

Reference

Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
Volume 78  April 2012 Pages 195-205

Author(s)

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

The aim of this study was to prove whether anthropogenic pollution affects antioxidant defense mechanisms such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity, ferritin (FRT) concentration and total antioxidant status (TAS) in human serum. The study area involves polluted and salted environment (Kujawy region; northern-middle Poland) and Tuchola Forestry (unpolluted control area). We investigated 79 blood samples of volunteers from polluted area and 82 from the control in 2008 and 2009. Lead, cadmium and iron concentrations were measured in whole blood by the ICP–MS method. SOD and CAT activities were measured in serum using SOD and CAT Assay Kits by the standardized colorimetric method. Serum TAS was measured spectrophotometrically by the modified Benzie and Strain (1996) method and FRT concentration—by the immunonefelometric method. Pb and Cd levels and SOD activity were higher in volunteers from polluted area as compared with those from the control (0.0236 mg l−1 vs. 0.014 mg l−1; 0.0008 mg l−1 vs. 0.0005 mg l−1; 0.137 U ml−1 vs. 0.055 U ml−1, respectively). Fe level, CAT activity and TAS were lower in serum of volunteers from polluted area (0.442 g l−1 vs. 0.476 g l−1; 3.336 nmol min−1 ml−1 vs. 6.017 nmol min −1 ml−1; 0.731 Trolox-equivalents vs. 0.936 Trolox-equivalents, respectively), whilst differences in FRT concentration were not significant (66.109 μg l−1 vs. 37.667 μg l−1, p=0.3972). Positive correlations between Pb (r=0.206), Cd (r=0.602) and SOD in the inhabitants of polluted area, and between Cd and SOD in the control (r=0.639) were shown. In volunteers from both studied environments TAS–FRT (polluted: r=0.625 vs. control: r=0.837) and Fe–FRT (polluted area: r=0.831 vs. control: r=0.407) correlations, and Pb–FRT (r=0.360) and Pb–TAS (r=0.283) in the control were stated.
The higher lead and cadmium concentrations in blood cause an increase of SOD activity. It suggests that this is one of the defense mechanisms of an organism against oxidative stress caused by environmental factors, whilst non-enzymatic mechanisms marked by TAS are the main antioxidant defense system in relation with Pb concentration in humans from unpolluted area. Simultaneously, the higher CAT activity and TAS can indicate that these mechanisms play a key role in the antioxidant protection in non-stressed environments.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts
Chemicals >> Impacts >> Health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Human biomonitoring

Keywords

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0147651311004155
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monicjus@wp.pl

Title

Analysis of the toxicogenomic effects of exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in Slovakian girls: Correlations between gene expression and disease risk

Reference

Environment International
Volume 39, Issue 1, February 2012, Pages 188–199

Author(s)

Irva Hertz-Picciotto, Tomas Trnovec, Lubica Palkovicova, Eva Sovcikova, Svetlana Ghimbovschi, Eric P. Hoffman, Sisir K. Dutta

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

The chemical composition of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the environment is not uniform throughout the world, and these contaminants contain many structurally different lipophilic compounds. In a well-defined study cohort in the Slovak Republic, the POP chemicals present in the peripheral blood of exposed children were chemically analyzed. The chemical analysis data revealed that the relative concentration and profile of structurally different organic pollutants, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 2,2′-bis(4-chlorophenyl)-1,1-dichloroethylene (p,p′-DDE), 2,2′-bis(4-chlorophenyl)-1,1,1-trichloro-ethane (p,p′-DDT), hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), may vary from individual to individual, even within the same exposure area. These chemicals can be broadly classified into two groups. The first group, the PCB congeners, primarily originated from industrial compounds and their byproducts. The second group of compounds originated from or was commonly used in the agricultural sector (e.g., DDT, HCB). The objective of this study was to examine the effects of the two POP exposure profiles on gene expression. For the study population, we selected pre-pubertal girls (mean age of 46.2 ± 1.4 months) with high POP concentrations in their blood (> 75% tile of total POP) and classified them in the high 'PCB' group when the total PCB concentration was significantly higher than the total concentration of other POP components and in the 'Other Than PCB' (OTP) group, when the total PCB concentration was significantly lower than the concentration of the other major POP constituents. A matched control group of girls (< 25% tile of total POP) was selected for comparison purpose (n = 5 per group). Our aims were to determine whether there were any common effects of high POP exposure at a toxicogenomic level and to investigate how exposure may affect physiological functions of the children in two different exposure scenarios. Global gene expression analysis using a microarray (Affymetrix Gene Chip Human genome U133 Plus 2.0 Array) platform was conducted on the total RNA of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from the girls. The results were analyzed by Partek GS, Louis, MI, which identified twelve genes (ATAD2B, BIVM, CD96, CXorf39, CYTH1 ETNK1, FAM13A, HIRA, INO80B, ODG1, RAD23B, and TSGA14) and two unidentified probe sets, as regulated differentially in both the PCB and OTP groups against the control group. The qRT-PCR method was used to validate the microarray results. The Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) software package identified the possible molecular impairments and disease risks associated with each gene set. Connective tissue disorders, genetic disorders, skeletal muscular disorders and neurological diseases were associated with the 12 common genes. The data therefore identified the potential molecular effects of POP exposure on a genomic level. This report underscores the importance of further study to validate the results in a random population and to evaluate the use of the identified genes as biomarkers for POP exposure.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts
Chemicals >> Impacts >> Health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Human biomonitoring

Keywords

Persistent Organic Pollutant (POP); Gene environment interaction; Gene expression; Human PBMC; IPA analysis; Disease and disorders

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412011002285
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sdutta@howard.edu

Title

Simultaneously Mitigating Near-Term Climate Change and Improving Human Health and Food Security

Reference

Science 13 January 2012:
Vol. 335 no. 6065 pp. 183-189
DOI: 10.1126/science.1210026

Author(s)

Drew Shindell , Johan C. I. Kuylenstierna, Elisabetta Vignati, et al

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

Tropospheric ozone and black carbon (BC) contribute to both degraded air quality and global warming. We considered ~400 emission control measures to reduce these pollutants by using current technology and experience. We identified 14 measures targeting methane and BC emissions that reduce projected global mean warming ~0.5°C by 2050. This strategy avoids 0.7 to 4.7 million annual premature deaths from outdoor air pollution and increases annual crop yields by 30 to 135 million metric tons due to ozone reductions in 2030 and beyond. Benefits of methane emissions reductions are valued at $700 to $5000 per metric ton, which is well above typical marginal abatement costs (less than $250). The selected controls target different sources and influence climate on shorter time scales than those of carbon dioxide–reduction measures. Implementing both substantially reduces the risks of crossing the 2°C threshold.

Policy theme(s)

Agriculture >> Agricultural management >> Food security
Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts
Air pollution >> Managing emissions >> Reduction measures
Climate change and energy >> Greenhouse gas emissions >> Air pollution and climate change

Keywords

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.sciencemag.org/content/335/6065/183.abstract?sid=f40702ab-13ca-4dc4-8b1a-c1b0414daebe

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drew.t.shindell@nasa.gov

Title

Estimated Short-Term Effects of Coarse Particles on Daily Mortality in Stockholm, Sweden

Reference

Environmental Health Perspectives

Author(s)

Kadri Meister, Christer Johansson, Bertil Forsberg

Study type

Peer Review Journal    

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Whereas serious health effects associated with particles with an aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 µm (PM10) and ≤ 2.5 µm (fine fraction; PM2.5) are documented in many studies, the effects of coarse particles with aerodynamic diameter between 2.5 and 10 µm (PM2.5-10) are still under debate. In this study we estimate the effects of short-term exposure of coarse particles on daily mortality in Stockholm.
METHOD: We collected data on daily mortality for the years 2000–2008. Concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, O3 and CO were measured simultaneously in central Stockholm. We used additive Poisson regression models to examine the association between daily mortality and the coarse fraction at day of death and day before. Effect estimates were adjusted for other pollutants (two-pollutant models) during different seasons.
RESULTS: We estimated a 1.68% increase [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20, 3.15%] in daily mortality per 10 µg m-3 increase in PM2.5-10 (single-pollutant model). The association with PM2.5-10 was stronger for November – May when road dust is most important (1.69% increase, CI 0.21, 3.17%) compared to the rest of the year (1.31% increase, CI -2.08, 4.70%), although the difference was not statistically significant. When adjusted for other pollutants, particularly PM2.5, the effect estimates per 10 µg m-3 for coarse particles decreased slightly, but were still higher than corresponding effect estimates for PM2.5.
CONCLUSIONS: Our analysis shows an increase in daily mortality associated with elevated urban background levels of coarse particles. Regulation of the coarse particle fraction should be considered, along with actions to specifically reduce coarse particle emissions, especially road dust suspension, in cities.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Air pollution

Keywords

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1103995
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kadri.meister@envmed.umu.se

Title

The Aggregate Risk Index: An intuitive tool providing the health risks of air pollution to health care community and public

Reference

Atmospheric Environment
Volume 46, January 2012, Pages 11-16
EU Funded

Author(s)

Pierre Sicard, Charles Talbot, Olivia Lesne, Antoine Mangin, Nicolas Alexandre, Rémy Collomp

Study type

Peer Review Journal 

Abstract

In the framework of the European project PASODOBLE (FP7), we set up downstream information services by combining environmental and health data with a view to support the health care community and to improve vulnerable people welfare. Indeed there is a profound relationship between human health, well-being and air pollution levels. The main objectives are to establish correlations between air quality, exposure of populations and their reactivity, to develop and validate air quality indexes and to construct a prediction model of this sanitary index. This index will be implemented on 3 European sites: Greece (Athens and Thessaloniki), the Netherlands and “Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur” (South East of France). The selected region and cities are among the most affected by the atmospheric pollution in Europe and leads to serious sanitary concerns. The service aims to provide up-to-date, detailed information on air quality discomfort. The Aggregate Risk Index is based on the Cairncross’s concept, obtained from the Relative Risk associated with short-term exposure to common air pollutants and takes into account the possible effects of a mixture of pollutants. This communication tool, easy to use and intuitive, about the levels of air pollution and the associated health risks, will be used to communicate information to the general population, authorities and to the health care community and will provide advanced warning of potentially health-damaging air pollution events.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Air pollution
Risk assessment >> Risk assessment methodologies     

Keywords

Aggregate Risk Index; ARI; Air quality; Health; Pasodoble; Relative risk

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Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1352231011011277

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pierre.sicard@acri-st.fr

Title

Saharan Dust and Associations between Particulate Matter and Daily Mortality in Rome, Italy

Reference

Author(s)

Sandra Mallone, Massimo Stafoggia, Annunziata Faustini, Gian Paolo Gobbi, Achille Marconi, Francesco Forastiere

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Background: Outbreaks of Saharan-Sahel dust over Euro-Mediterranean areas frequently induce exceedances of the Europen Union's 24-hr standard of 50 μg/m3 for particulate matter (PM) with aerodynamic diameter ≤ than 10 μm (PM10).
Objectives: We evaluated the effect of Saharan dust on the association between different PM fractions and daily mortality in Rome, Italy.
Methods: In a study of 80,423 adult residents who died in Rome between 2001 and 2004, we performed a time-series analysis to explore the effects of PM2.5, PM2.5–10, and PM10 on natural, cardiac, cerebrovascular, and respiratory mortality. We defined Saharan dust days by combining light detection and ranging (LIDAR) observations and analyses from operational models. We tested a Saharan dust–PM interaction term to evaluate the hypothesis that the effects of PM, especially coarse PM (PM2.5–10), on mortality would be enhanced on dust days.
Results: Interquartile range increases in PM2.5–10 (10.8 μg/m3) and PM10 (19.8 μg/m3) were associated with increased mortality due to natural, cardiac, cerebrovascular, and respiratory causes, with estimated effects ranging from 2.64% to 12.65% [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.18–25.42%] for the association between PM2.5–10 and respiratory mortality (0- to 5-day lag). Associations of PM2.5–10 with cardiac mortality were stronger on Saharan dust days (9.73%; 95% CI, 4.25–15.49%) than on dust-free days (0.86%; 95% CI, –2.47% to 4.31%; p = 0.005). Saharan dust days also modified associations between PM10 and cardiac mortality (9.55% increase; 95% CI, 3.81–15.61%; vs. dust-free days: 2.09%; 95% CI, –0.76% to 5.02%; p = 0.02).
Conclusions: We found evidence of effects of PM2.5–10 and PM10 on natural and cause-specific mortality, with stronger estimated effects on cardiac mortality during Saharan dust outbreaks. Toxicological and biological effects of particles from desert sources need to be further investigated and taken into account in air quality standards.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution >> Source of emissions >> Terrestrial emissions
Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Air pollution

Keywords

air pollution, epidemiology, mortality, particulate matter, Saharan dust.

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/fetchArticle.action?articleURI=info%3Adoi%2F10.1289%2Fehp.1003026
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stafoggia@asplazio.it

Title

Biomarkers of exposure and effect-interpretation in human risk assessment

Reference

Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health
Doi. 10.1007/s11869-011-0133-8
EU Funded

Author(s)

Radim J. Sram, Blanka Binkova, Olena Beskid, Alena Milcova, Pavel Rossner, Pavel Rossner Jr, Andrea Rossnerova, Ivo Solansky and Jan Topinka

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

The effect of exposure to carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons adsorbed onto respirable air particles (PM2.5, diameter < 2.5 μm) on DNA adducts and chromosomal aberrations was repeatedly studied in Prague, Czech Republic, in groups of policemen working in the downtown area and in bus drivers. Personal exposure was evaluated using personal samplers during working shifts. DNA adducts were analyzed in lymphocytes by the 32P-postlabeling assay and chromosomal aberrations were analyzed by conventional cytogenetic analysis and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). The impact of environmental pollution on DNA adducts and chromosomal aberrations was studied in a total of 950 subjects. Our results suggest that the environmental exposure of nonsmokers to concentrations higher than 1 ng benzo[a]pyrene/m3 represents a risk of DNA damage, as indicated by an increase in DNA adducts and the genomic frequency of translocations determined by FISH.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Air pollution

Keywords

Personal monitoring; Carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons;  Benzo[a]pyrene ; DNA adducts; Chromosomal aberrations

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3156305/pdf/11869_2011_Article_133.pdf This study is free to view

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sram@biomed.cas.cz

Title

Global climate change and contaminants-an overview of opportunities and priorities for modelling the potential implications for long-term human exposure to organic compounds in the Arctic

Reference

J. Environ. Monit, 2011, 13, 1532-1546
DOI:10.1039/C1EM10131E

Author(s

James M. Armitage, Cristina L. Quinn and Frank Wania

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

This overview seeks to provide context and insight into the relative importance of different aspects related to global climate change for the exposure of Northern residents to organic contaminants. A key objective is to identify, from the perspective of researchers engaged in contaminant fate, transport and bioaccumulation modelling, the most useful research questions with respect to projecting the long-term trends in human exposure. Monitoring studies, modelling results, the magnitude of projected changes and simplified quantitative approaches are used to inform the discussion. Besides the influence of temperature on contaminant amplification and distribution, accumulation of organic contaminants in the Arctic is expected to be particularly sensitive to the reduction/elimination of sea-ice cover and also changes to the frequency and intensity of precipitation events (most notably for substances that are highly susceptible to precipitation scavenging). Changes to key food-web interactions, in particular the introduction of additional trophic levels, have the potential to exert a relatively high influence on contaminant exposure but the likelihood of such changes is difficult to assess. Similarly, changes in primary productivity and dynamics of organic matter in aquatic systems could be influential for very hydrophobic contaminants, but the magnitude of change that may occur is uncertain. Shifts in the amount and location of chemical use and emissions are key considerations, in particular if substances with relatively low long range transport potential are used in closer proximity to, or even within, the Arctic in the future. Temperature-dependent increases in emissions via (re)volatilization from primary and secondary sources outside the Arctic are also important in this regard. An increased frequency of boreal forest fires has relevance for compounds emitted via biomass burning and revolatilization from soil during/after burns but compound-specific analyses are limited by the availability of reliable emission factors. However, potentially more influential for human exposure than changes to the physical environment are changes in human behaviour. This includes the gradual displacement of traditional food items by imported foods from other regions, driven by prey availability and/or consumer preference, but also the possibility of increased exposure to chemicals used in packaging materials and other consumer products, driven by dietary and lifestyle choices.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution >> Managing emissions >> Monitoring
Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Ecosystem impacts
Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts

Keywords

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://pubs.rsc.org/en/Content/ArticleLanding/2011/EM/c1em10131e
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james.armitage@utoronto.ca

Title

Assessing the potential exposure risk and control for airborne titanium dioxide and carbon black nanoparticles in the workplace

Reference

Environmental Science and Pollution Research
2011 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-011-0447-y

Author(s)

Min-Pei Ling, Chia-Pin Chio, Wei-Chun Chou, Wei-Yu Chen, Nan-Hung Hsieh, Yi-Jun Lin and Chung-Min Liao 

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Purpose  
This study assessed the potential exposure risks for workers in the workplace exposed to airborne titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂-NPs) and carbon black nanoparticles (CB-NPs). The risk management control strategies were also developed for the NP engineering workplace.
Methods  
The method used in this study was based on the integrated multiple-path particle dosimetry model to estimate the cumulative dose of nanoparticles (NPs) in the human lung. The study then analyzed toxicological effects such as pulmonary cytotoxicity and inflammation and evaluated the health risk associated with exposure to NPs in the workplace. Risk control measures such as the use of ventilating systems and N95 respirator protection are also discussed.
Results and discussion  
This study found that: (1) the cumulative dose of CB-NPs was greater than that of TiO₂-NPs in human lungs; (2) there is a potential health risk to workers exposed to TiO₂-NPs and CB-NPs in the absence of control measures in the workplace, with higher health risks associated with CB-NPs than TiO₂-NPs; and (3) the use of a ventilating system and an N95 respirator offers greater protection in the workplace and significantly reduces the health risks associated with NP exposure.
Conclusion  
The present risk management control strategy suggests that the most effective way to reduce airborne NPs is to incorporate the use of a ventilating system combined with N95 respirator protection. This will enable the concentrations of TiO₂-NPs and CB-NPs to be reduced to acceptable exposure levels.

Policy theme(s)

Chemicals >> Pollutants/hazardous substances >> Nanomaterials
Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts
Risk assessment >> Hazards >> Hazardous substances

Keywords

Titanium dioxide, Carbon black, Nanoparticles, Workplace, Risk assessment

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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N/A

View this study at:

http://www.springerlink.com/content/ytu3276v4w5534k8
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cmliao@ntu.edu.tw

Title

Internal exposure to pollutants and sexual maturation in Flemish adolescents

Reference

Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology
(2011) 21, 224-233; doi:10.1038/jes.2010.2

Author(s)

Elly Den Hond, Willem Dhooge, Liesbeth Bruckers, Greet Schoeters, Vera Nelen, Els van de Mieroop, Gudrun Koppen, Maaike Bilau, Carmen Schroijen, Hans Keune, Willy Baeyens and Nicolas van Larebeke

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Flanders is densely populated with much industry and intensive farming. Sexual maturation of adolescents (aged 14-15 years) was studied in relation to internal exposure to pollutants. Serum levels of pollutants and sex hormones were measured in 1679 participants selected as a random sample of the adolescents residing in the study areas. Data on sexual development were obtained from the medical school examination files. Self-assessment questionnaires provided information on health, use of medication and lifestyle factors. In boys, serum levels of hexachlorobenzene (HCB), p,p'-DDE and polychlorinated biphenyls (sum of marker PCB138, 153 and 180) were significantly and positively associated with pubertal staging (pubic hair and genital development). Higher levels of serum HCB and blood lead were associated with, respectively, a lower and a higher risk of gynecomastia. In girls, significant and negative associations were detected between blood lead and pubic hair development; higher exposure to PCBs was significantly associated with a delay in timing of menarche. Environmental exposures to pollutants at levels actually present in the Flemish population are associated with measurable effects on pubertal development. However, further understanding of toxic mode of action and sensitive windows of exposure is needed to explain the current findings.

Policy theme(s)

Environment and health >> Health risks >> Human biomonitoring
Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts

Keywords

Human biomonitoring, Adolescents, Hormone levels, Sexual maturation, Environment, Pollution

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.nature.com/jes/journal/v21/n3/full/jes20102a.html
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kim.croes@vub.ac.be

Title

Road Traffic and Childhood Leukemia: The ESCALE Study (SFCE)

Reference

Environ Health Perspectives 119:566-572. doi:10.1289/ehp.1002429

Author(s)

Alicia Amigou, Claire Sermage–Faure, Laurent Orsi, Guy Leverger, André Baruchel, Yves Bertrand, Brigitte Nelken, Alain Robert, Gérard Michel, Geneviève Margueritte, Yves Perel, Françoise Méchinaud, Pierre Bordigoni, Denis Hémon, Jacqueline Clavel

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Background: Traffic is a source of environmental exposures, including benzene, which may be related to childhood leukemia.
Objectives: A national registry–based case–control study [ESCALE (Etude Sur les Cancers et les Leucémies de l·Enfant, Study on Environmental and Genetic Risk Factors of Childhood Cancers and Leukemia)] carried out in France was used to assess the effect of exposure to road traffic exhaust fumes on the risk of childhood leukemia.
Methods: Over the study period, 2003–2004, 763 cases and 1,681 controls < 15 years old were included, and the controls were frequency matched with the cases on age and sex. The ESCALE data were collected by a standardized telephone interview of the mothers. Various indicators of exposure to traffic and pollution were determined using the geocoded addresses at the time of diagnosis for the cases and of interview for the controls. Indicators of the distance from, and density of, main roads and traffic nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) concentrations derived from traffic emission data were used. Odds ratios (ORs) were estimated using unconditional regression models adjusted for potential confounders.
Results: Acute leukemia (AL) was significantly associated with estimates of traffic NO₂ concentration at the place of residence > 27.7 µg/m³ compared with NO₂ concentration < 21.9 µg/m³ [OR = 1.2; confidence interval (CI), 1.0–1.5] and with the presence of a heavy-traffic road within 500 m compared with the absence of a heavy-traffic road in the same area (OR = 2.0; 95% CI, 1.0–3.6). There was a significant association between AL and a high density of heavy-traffic roads within 500 m compared with the reference category with no heavy-traffic road within 500 m (OR = 2.2; 95% CI, 1.1–4.2), with a significant positive linear trend of the association of AL with the total length of heavy-traffic road within 500m.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution>> Impact of emissions>> Health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks>>Air pollution

Keywords

acute leukemia, benzene, children, environment, epidemiology, road traffic.

Entry Source:

N/A

Referred to in EC doc:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

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http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/fetchArticle.action?articleURI=info%3Adoi%2F10.1289%2Fehp.1002429  
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jacqueline.clavel@inserm.fr

Title

2008-2011 Improving Knowledge and Communication for Decision Making on Air Pollution and Health in Europe

Reference

Summary report of the Aphekom project

Author(s)

Aphekom.

Study type

Report

Abstract

Much has been done in recent years to reduce air pollution and its harmful effects on the health of Europeans. Yet gaps remain in stakeholders' knowledge and understanding of this continuing threat that hamper the planning and implementation of measures to protect public health more effectively.
Sixty Aphekom scientists have therefore worked for nearly 3 years in 12 countries across Europe to provide new information and tools that enable decision makers to set more effective European, national and local policies; health professionals to better advise vulnerable individuals; and all individuals to better protect their health.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution>> Impact of emissions >>Health impacts
Environment and health>> Health risks>> Air pollution
Environmental information services>> Environmental communication>>Stakeholder/public engagement

Keywords

N/A

Entry Source:

N/A

Referred to in EC doc:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

View this study at:

www.endseurope.com/docs/110302b.pdf
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s.medina@invs.sante.fr
www.aphekom.org

Title

Prostate cancer and industrial pollution: Risk around putative focus in a multi-source scenario

Reference

Environment International
Volume 37, Issue 3, April 2011, Pages 577-585

Author(s)

Rebeca Rami, Peter Diggle, Koldo Cambra and Gonzalo López-Abente

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Background
Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer among men but its aetiology is still largely unknown. Different studies have proposed several risk factors such as ethnic origin, age, genetic factors, hormonal factors, diet and insulin-like growth factor, but the spatial distribution of the disease suggests that other environmental factors are involved. This paper studies the spatial distribution of prostate cancer mortality in an industrialized area using distances from each of a number of industrial facilities as indirect measures of exposure to industrial pollution.
Materials and methods
We studied the Gran Bilbao area (Spain) with a population of 791,519 inhabitants distributed in 657 census tracts. There were 20 industrial facilities within the area, 8 of them in the central axis of the region. We analysed prostate cancer mortality during the period 1996-2003. There were 883 deaths giving a crude rate of 14 per 100,000 inhabitants.
We extended the standard Poisson regression model by the inclusion of a multiplicative non-linear function to model the effect of distance from an industrial facility. The function's shape combined an elevated risk close to the source with a neutral effect at large distance. We also included socio-demographic covariates in the model to control potential confounding.
Results
We aggregated the industrial facilities by sector: metal, mineral, chemical and other activities. Results relating to metal industries showed a significantly elevated risk by a factor of approximately 1.4 in the immediate vicinity, decaying with distance to a value of 1.08 at 12 km. The remaining sectors did not show a statistically significant excess of risk at the source.
Discussion
Notwithstanding the limitations of this kind of study, we found evidence of association between the spatial distribution of prostate cancer mortality aggregated by census tracts and proximity to metal industrial facilities located within the area, after adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics at municipality level.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >>Health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Air pollution

Keywords

Prostate cancer, Environmental exposure, Industrial pollution, Metal industry, Non-linear

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

View this study at:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412010002461
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rramis@isciii.es

Title

Economic valuation of air pollution mortality: A 9-country contingent valuation survey of value of a life year (VOLY)

Reference

Ecological Indicators
Volume 11, Issue 3, May 2011, Pages 902-910

Author(s)

B. Desaigues et al

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

This paper provides a key element for the calculation of the damage costs of air pollution, namely the valuation of mortality, important because premature mortality makes by far the largest contribution.Whereas several studies have tried to quantify the cost of air pollution mortality by multiplying a number of deaths by the 'value of prevented fatality' (also known as 'value of statistical life'), we explain why such an approach is not correct and why one needs to evaluate the change in life expectancy due to air pollution. Therefore, an estimate for the monetary value of a life year (VOLY) is needed. The most appropriate method for determining VOLY is contingent valuation (CV). To determine VOLY for the EU, we have conducted a CV survey in 9 European countries: France, Spain, UK, Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland with a total sample size of 1463 persons. Based on the results from this 9-country CV survey we recommend a VOLY estimate of 40,000 D for cost-benefit analysis of air pollution policies for the European Union. As for confidence intervals, we argue that VOLY is at least25,000 D and at the most 100,000 D

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Air pollution
Environmental economics >> Economic impacts of environmental change

Keywords

Air pollution, Mortality valuation, Life expectancy, Life years lost, Contingent valuation, Environmental policy

Entry Source:

Shortlisted for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1470160X10002116
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ari.rabl@gmail.com

Title

Reference

Journal of Exposure Science and Environmental Epidemiology 21, 106113; doi:10.1038/jes.2009.63;

Author(s)

Willem Dhooge, Elly Den Hond, Gudrun Koppen, Liesbeth Bruckers, Vera Nelen, Els van de Mieroop, Maaike Bilau, Kim Croes, Willy Baeyens, Greet Schoeters and Nicolas van Larebeke

Study type

Peer Review Journal

Abstract

Flanders is densely populated with much industry and intensive farming. Hormonal status of 14- to 15-year-old male adolescents was studied in relation to internal exposure to pollutants. A total of 887 participants were selected as a random sample of the adolescents residing in the study areas. Confounding factors and significant covariates were taken into account. Serum levels of testosterone, free testosterone and estradiol, and the aromatase index showed significant positive associations with serum levels of marker polychlorobiphenyls (sum of PCBs 138, 153, and 180) and of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and a negative association with urinary cadmium concentration. Serum levels of estradiol also showed a positive association with serum levels of dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE). A doubling of serum concentrations of marker PCBs and HCB and of urinary concentration of cadmium were, respectively, associated with an increase of 16.4% (P<0.00001) and 16.6% (P<0.001) and a decrease of 9.6% (P<0.001) in serum testosterone concentration. Similar findings were made after additional adjustment for concurrent exposures. Associations between biological effects and internal exposures were, in terms of the regression coefficient, often stronger at exposures below the median. Environmental exposures to pollutants resulting in 'normal' levels of internal exposure were associated with quite substantial differences in hormone concentrations.

Policy theme(s)

Air pollution >> Impact of emissions >> Health impacts
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Air pollution
Environment and health >> Health risks >> Human biomonitoring

Keywords

Lead, Cadmium, Organochlorines, Polychlorobiphenyls, PCB 118, Dioxin-like activity, Hexachlorobenzene, p,p'-Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, Body mass index, Height, Health effects, Low dose

Entry Source:

Selected for Science for Environment Policy News Alert

Referred to in EC doc:

N/A

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http://www.nature.com/jes/journal/v21/n1/full/jes200963a.html
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Contact the study author at:

nicolas.vanlarebeke@ugent.be