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Teixeira J, Bessa MJ, Delerue-Matos C, Sarmento B, Santos-Silva A, Rodrigues F, Oliveira M. Human exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons during structure fires: Concentrations outside and inside self-contained breathing apparatus and in vitro respiratory toxicity. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2025; 373:126112. [PMID: 40132741 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2025] [Revised: 03/20/2025] [Accepted: 03/22/2025] [Indexed: 03/27/2025]
Abstract
Structure fires release several health-hazardous compounds, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and the use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is mandatory to protect firefighters' airways. The characterization of PAHs released during structure fires is scarce, principally in European countries. This work elucidates the mechanisms of toxic effects associated with human exposure to PAHs released during structure fires, by assessing for the first time, the levels in the breathable air of sapper firefighters with and without the use of SCBA. An in vitro co-culture model of air-blood barrier was used to evaluate respiratory toxicity. Concentrations of total PAHs (∑PAHs) inside the burning structure were 8.20-19.8 times higher than the values monitored inside fire stations (11.5-28.0 μg/m3versus 1.41 μg/m3; p < 0.005) and 2688-5872 times higher than the levels detected inside the SCBA used during the fire events. Levels of carcinogenic PAHs were 6.90-20.5 times higher than observed for the control group (p ≤ 0.005). Inside to outside ratios (<1) suggested the contribution of PAHs from fires to the levels detected inside the protection system. Exposure to fire emissions increased the risk of lung cancer. The use of SCBA system substantially reduced exposure to PAHs, still levels detected outside/inside the SCBA facemask significantly reduced the viability of alveolar and bronchial cell lines (<70 %). Benzo(a)pyrene (100 %), naphthalene and phenanthrene (97.5 %), benzo(b+j)fluoranthene (90 %), and fluorene (87.5 %) found inside the SCBA mask were able to permeate the co-culture model of air-blood barrier. More studies need to corroborate these preliminary findings and evaluate the synergic effect of fire effluent complex mixtures and their contribution to respiratory toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Teixeira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal; UCIBIO i4HB, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria João Bessa
- UNIPRO - Unidade de Investigação em Patologia e Reabilitação Oral, Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde (IUCS), CESPU, 4585-116, Gandra, Portugal
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- UNIPRO - Unidade de Investigação em Patologia e Reabilitação Oral, Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde (IUCS), CESPU, 4585-116, Gandra, Portugal; I3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Alice Santos-Silva
- UCIBIO i4HB, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisca Rodrigues
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal.
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Esteves F, Madureira J, Costa C, Pires J, Barros B, Alves S, Vaz J, Oliveira M, Slezakova K, Fernandes A, Pereira MDC, Morais S, Valdiglesias V, Bonassi S, Teixeira JP, Costa S. Occupational exposure to wildland firefighting and its effects on systemic DNA damage. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2025; 266:114576. [PMID: 40203508 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2025.114576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2025] [Accepted: 04/03/2025] [Indexed: 04/11/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Portugal is among the European Union countries more devastated by forest fires. Wildland firefighters are at the forefront of this battle, facing exposure to a wide range of harmful pollutants. Epidemiological studies have highlighted a potential link between occupational firefighting exposure and several diseases, including cancer. To date, very few studies have explored the biological mechanisms associated with such exposure. The present longitudinal study aims to assess changes in early effect biomarkers following wildland firefighters' occupational exposure to a real wildfire event. METHODS Paired blood samples from 59 healthy Portuguese wildland firefighters were collected at two different time points: before wildfire season and after a fire event during wildfire season. Sociodemographic variables (e.g., age, sex) and work-related factors (e.g., years of service) were assessed via a self-reported questionnaire. Levels of early effect biomarkers, such as primary DNA damage and oxidative DNA damage (oxidised purines) were assessed via comet assay. DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) were evaluated by phosphorylated H2AX (γH2AX). Moreover, hydroxylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites (OHPAHs) and metal(loid)s were quantified in urine samples. The influence of urinary OHPAHs, urinary metal(loid)s, and other exposure-related factors (e.g., firefighting duration) on changes (Δ) in early effect biomarkers (post-vs. baseline levels) was investigated. RESULTS Firefighting activities led to a significant increase in both primary DNA damage and oxidative DNA damage by 22 % (95 % CI: 1.11-1.35; p < 0.05) and 23 % (95 % CI: 1.04-1.45; p < 0.05), respectively. Results from linear regression revealed that per each unit increase of urinary 2-hydroxyfluorene (2-OHFlu) (μmol/mol creatinine), the risk of ⧍ oxidative DNA damage increased by 20 % [FR: 1.20 (1.09-1.32); p < 0.01]. Additionally, each unit increase in urinary cesium (Cs) (μg/L) resulted in a significant 4 % increase in Δ primary DNA damage [FR: 1.04 (1.01-1.06); p < 0.05] and a 3 % increase in Δ oxidative DNA damage [FR: 1.03 (1.01-1.05); p < 0.05]. Post-exposure levels of γH2AX were significantly correlated with urinary 2-OHFlu levels assessed after firefighting (r = 0.30; p < 0.05). Furthermore, exposure duration and reported breathing difficulties during firefighting were significantly associated with increased levels of primary DNA damage. CONCLUSION Results obtained provide insights into the potential human health effects of wildland firefighting occupational exposure at the genetic and molecular levels, offering new and important mechanistic data. These findings are crucial for implementing health and safety measures, recommendations, and best practices to mitigate occupational risks and protect the health of wildland firefighters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Esteves
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, and Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Madureira
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla Costa
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Pires
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bela Barros
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Alves
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Josiana Vaz
- Research Centre for Active Living and Wellbeing (LiveWell), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal; CIMO, LA SusTEC, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Klara Slezakova
- LEPABE-ALiCE, Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Adília Fernandes
- Research Centre for Active Living and Wellbeing (LiveWell), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal; CIMO, LA SusTEC, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Maria do Carmo Pereira
- LEPABE-ALiCE, Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vanessa Valdiglesias
- Universidade da Coruña, Grupo NanoToxGen, Centro Interdisciplinar de Química e Bioloxía - CICA, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Campus A Zapateira s/n, A Coruña, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña (INIBIC), Complexo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña (CHUAC), Sergas, As Xubias, A Coruña, 15006, Spain
| | - Stefano Bonassi
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, 00163, Rome, Italy; Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele University, 00166, Rome, Italy
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Solange Costa
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
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Esteves F, Madureira J, Barros B, Alves S, Pires J, Martins S, Oliveira M, Vaz J, Slezakova K, Pereira MDC, Fernandes A, Morais S, Guimarães JT, Bonassi S, Teixeira JP, Costa S. Impact of occupational exposure to wildfire events on systemic inflammatory biomarkers in Portuguese wildland firefighters. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2025; 277:121608. [PMID: 40233845 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2025.121608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2025] [Accepted: 04/12/2025] [Indexed: 04/17/2025]
Abstract
While occupational exposure as a firefighter is considered a dangerous occupation, research on the underlying mechanisms remains limited, particularly in wildland firefighters. Inflammation, a key effect of wildfire exposure, plays a significant role in the development of various diseases. The current study aims to investigate the impact of wildland firefighting exposure on the levels of pro-inflammatory systemic biomarkers. A pre-post study design investigated 59 wildland firefighters comparing data collected after participation in a wildfire event (Phase II) with data obtained before wildfire season (Phase I). Data on demographics, lifestyle, health and occupational-related factors were assessed. Exposure factors, such as fire combat (e.g., exposure duration), were also registered. Inflammatory biomarkers (i.e. interleukin-6 [IL-6], interleukin-8 [IL-8], tumor necrosis factor α [TNF-α] and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP]) and hydroxylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons metabolites (1-OHNaph+1-OHAce, 2-OHFlu, 1-OHPhen, 1-OHPyr) were analysed in blood and urine samples, respectively. Serum IL-8 and IL-6 levels were significantly increased after wildland fire combat. IL-8 levels were 2.62 times higher (95 % CI: 1.96-3.50; p < 0.01), whereas IL-6 levels were 1.25 times higher (95 % CI: 1.00-1.57; p = 0.04). Furthermore, IL-8 levels were significantly correlated with urinary 2-hydroxyfluorene levels and fire combat duration (>12 h). In addition, the mean hs-CRP level, in both phases, was above 3.0 mg/L, indicating a potential risk for cardiovascular events. Given the long-term health implications of firefighting occupational exposure, biomonitoring and early detection of occupational risks are essential for protecting firefighters' health. Protective measures must be urgently implemented to enhance occupational health and strengthen preventive strategies in this sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Esteves
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, and Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Madureira
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bela Barros
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Alves
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Joana Pires
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sandra Martins
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Department of Clinical Pathology, São João University Hospital Centre, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - Josiana Vaz
- Research Centre for Active Living and Wellbeing (LiveWell), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal; CIMO, LA SusTEC, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Klara Slezakova
- LEPABE-ALiCE, Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria do Carmo Pereira
- LEPABE-ALiCE, Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Adília Fernandes
- Research Centre for Active Living and Wellbeing (LiveWell), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Tiago Guimarães
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Department of Clinical Pathology, São João University Hospital Centre, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal; Unit of Biochemistry, Department Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
| | - Stefano Bonassi
- Unit of Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, 00163, Rome, Italy; Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele University, 00166, Rome, Italy
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Solange Costa
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, nº 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, n° 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
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Karakoltzidis A, Papaioannou N, Gabriel C, Chatzimpaloglou A, Andersson AM, Juul A, Halldorsson TI, Olafsdottir K, Klanova J, Piler P, Janasik B, Wasowicz W, Janev-Holcer N, Namorado S, Rambaud L, Riou M, Probst-Hensch N, Imboden M, Van Nieuwenhuyse A, Appenzeller BMR, Kolossa-Gehring M, Weber T, Stewart L, Sepai O, Esteban-López M, Castaño A, Gilles L, Govarts E, Rodriguez Martin L, Schoeters G, Karakitsios S, Sarigiannis DΑ. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure among European adults: Evidence from the HBM4EU aligned studies. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2025; 198:109383. [PMID: 40132439 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2025.109383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2025] [Accepted: 03/14/2025] [Indexed: 03/27/2025]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are persistent environmental pollutants with well-documented associations to adverse health effects, posing significant public health challenges across Europe. Human exposure to 13 urinary PAH metabolites was assessed in a harmonized cohort of European adults aged 20-39, representing diverse geographic regions across Europe: North (Iceland and Denmark), East (Poland and the Czech Republic), South (Croatia and Portugal), and West (France, Germany, Switzerland, and Luxembourg). This study aimed to achieve a unified understanding of PAH exposure by employing stringent participant selection criteria and harmonizing biomarker analyses by utilizing high-quality analytical protocols across multiple laboratories in Europe. Key findings revealed consistently elevated metabolite levels in smokers compared to non-smokers, with naphthalene metabolites dominating the profiles over phenanthrene and fluorene derivatives. Country-specific analyses highlighted Poland as having the highest naphthalene metabolite concentrations, while Luxembourg exhibited elevated pyrene metabolite levels. Urbanization influenced exposure, with slightly higher metabolite concentrations in town populations compared to rural areas. While sex-based stratification revealed no marked differences, gender emerged as a significant covariate in regression models, with women generally displaying higher exposure to naphthalene metabolites. Educational level further stratified exposure, with lower education correlating with increased PAH levels. Multivariate linear regression identified key exposure factors, including sampling season (i.e., summer, winter, autumn, and spring), dietary habits e.g., smoked foods, and proximity to smoke-prone environments. This dataset provides a significant baseline for evaluating the European Commission's Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS) and underscores the utility of harmonized human biomonitoring studies in informing targeted public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achilleas Karakoltzidis
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Department of Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering Laboratory, University Campus, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece; HERACLES Research Center on the Exposome and Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Balkan Center, Bldg. B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Road, 57001, Greece
| | - Nafsika Papaioannou
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Department of Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering Laboratory, University Campus, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece; HERACLES Research Center on the Exposome and Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Balkan Center, Bldg. B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Road, 57001, Greece
| | - Catherine Gabriel
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Department of Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering Laboratory, University Campus, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece; HERACLES Research Center on the Exposome and Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Balkan Center, Bldg. B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Road, 57001, Greece
| | - Anthoula Chatzimpaloglou
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Department of Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering Laboratory, University Campus, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece; HERACLES Research Center on the Exposome and Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Balkan Center, Bldg. B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Road, 57001, Greece
| | - Anna-Maria Andersson
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Research Center for Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; International Research Center for Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Kristin Olafsdottir
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland
| | - Jana Klanova
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Piler
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Beata Janasik
- Department of Environmental and Biological Monitoring, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz. Poland
| | - Wojciech Wasowicz
- Department of Environmental and Biological Monitoring, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz. Poland
| | - Natasa Janev-Holcer
- Croatian Institute of Public Health, Division for Environmental Health, Rockefellerova 7, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; Faculty of Medicine in Rijeka, Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Brace Branchetta 20/1, 51 000, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Sónia Namorado
- Department of Epidemiology, National Institute of Health Doctor Ricardo Jorge, Avenida Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Loïc Rambaud
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Santé publique France, 12 rue du Val d'Osne, 94415 Saint-Maurice Cedex, France
| | - Margaux Riou
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Santé publique France, 12 rue du Val d'Osne, 94415 Saint-Maurice Cedex, France
| | - Nicole Probst-Hensch
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Medea Imboden
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - An Van Nieuwenhuyse
- Department Health Protection, Laboratoire national de santé (LNS), 1, Rue Louis Rech, L-3555 Dudelange, Luxembourg
| | | | | | - Till Weber
- German Environment Agency (UBA), Corrensplatz 1, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lorraine Stewart
- UKHSA UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Science Park, Chilton OX11 0RQ, United Kingdom
| | - Ovnair Sepai
- UKHSA UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Science Park, Chilton OX11 0RQ, United Kingdom
| | - Marta Esteban-López
- National Centre for Environmental Health, Instituto de Salud Carlos III. Ctra. Majadahonda - Pozuelo Km 2, 28220, Madrid, Spain
| | - Argelia Castaño
- National Centre for Environmental Health, Instituto de Salud Carlos III. Ctra. Majadahonda - Pozuelo Km 2, 28220, Madrid, Spain
| | - Liese Gilles
- VITO Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Eva Govarts
- VITO Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | | | - Greet Schoeters
- VITO Health, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), 2400 Mol, Belgium; University of Antwerp, Dept of Biomedical Sciences & Toxicological Centre, 2600 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Spyros Karakitsios
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Department of Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering Laboratory, University Campus, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece; HERACLES Research Center on the Exposome and Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Balkan Center, Bldg. B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Road, 57001, Greece; EnvE.X, K. Palama 11, Thessaloniki, Greece; National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimosthenis Α Sarigiannis
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Department of Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering Laboratory, University Campus, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece; HERACLES Research Center on the Exposome and Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Balkan Center, Bldg. B, 10th km Thessaloniki-Thermi Road, 57001, Greece; School for Advanced Study (IUSS), Science, Technology and Society Department, Environmental Health Engineering, Piazza della Vittoria 15, Pavia 27100, Italy; EnvE.X, K. Palama 11, Thessaloniki, Greece; National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece.
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Guedes Pinto T, de Aguiar GC, da Silva Avanci L, Nunes Dos Santos J, Ramos Cury P, Araki Ribeiro D. Do firefighters constitute a high-risk population for genotoxicity (DNA damage)? A systematic review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2025:1-12. [PMID: 39955632 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2025.2464094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2025] [Indexed: 02/17/2025]
Abstract
Firefighters regularly undertake high-risk operations in diverse environments, exposing them to extreme temperatures and hazardous pollutants resulting from combustion. For this reason, this systematic review aims to evaluate the potential genotoxicity associated with occupational exposure specific to firefighters. Methodologically, the review included 12 studies assessing genetic damage in firefighters. A thorough quality assessment was performed to account for potential confounding factors, and almost all studies were deemed as either strong or moderate (except for one), ensuring the reliability of the key findings. Likewise, more than half of the articles reviewed (7 out of 12) reported elevated levels of genotoxicity in firefighters, as evidenced by various assays employed in the studies. Taken together, the findings highlight the critical need for implementing biomonitoring strategies for early detection of genotoxicity among firefighters, emphasizing the necessity for further research in this occupational context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago Guedes Pinto
- Department of Biosciences, Institute of Health and Society, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Carvalhal de Aguiar
- Department of Biosciences, Institute of Health and Society, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Lorrany da Silva Avanci
- Department of Biosciences, Institute of Health and Society, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Jean Nunes Dos Santos
- Department of Periodontics, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Patricia Ramos Cury
- Department of Periodontics, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Daniel Araki Ribeiro
- Department of Biosciences, Institute of Health and Society, Federal University of São Paulo, UNIFESP, Santos, SP, Brazil
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6
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Chakr N, Sav A. The role of personal protective equipment (PPE) in reducing firefighter exposure to chemical hazards: A systematic review. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2024; 21:831-841. [PMID: 39442142 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2024.2400237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
This paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of personal protective equipment (PPE) in reducing firefighter exposure to various hazardous chemicals from the smoke emitted during fires. A systematic review of peer-reviewed articles was undertaken utilizing five databases: Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and CINHAL. Studies published between 2013 and 2023 that investigated the effectiveness of PPE in reducing firsthand exposure to at least one chemical were included. Extracted data were grouped into two overarching themes related to PPE: (a) Respiratory Protection and (b) Personal Protective Clothing (PPC). Overall, 21 studies met the inclusion criteria and were considered for further analysis. Respiratory protection, particularly self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), offered the most protection in preventing inhalation exposure to chemical hazards. There was limited evidence on the effectiveness of firefighter turnout gear in reducing skin contamination. Combustion contaminants, especially highly volatile compounds like benzene, were found to permeate and penetrate through and around the protective clothing. In conclusion, certain respirators, particularly SCBA, provided the best protection against inhalation exposure to chemicals; however, PPC did not appear to provide complete protection, particularly against the more volatile chemicals like benzene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Chakr
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Adem Sav
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
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7
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Probert C, Nixon E, Ormond RB, Baynes R. Percutaneous Absorption of Fireground Contaminants: Naphthalene, Phenanthrene, and Benzo[a]pyrene in Porcine Skin in an Artificial Sweat Vehicle. TOXICS 2024; 12:588. [PMID: 39195690 PMCID: PMC11360371 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12080588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Firefighters face significant risks of exposure to toxic chemicals, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), during fire suppression activities. PAHs have been found in the air, on the gear and equipment, and in biological samples such as the skin, breath, urine, and blood of firefighters after fire response. However, the extent to which exposure occurs via inhalation, dermal absorption, or ingestion is unclear. In this study, three PAHs, naphthalene, phenanthrene, and benzo[a]pyrene, were applied to porcine skin in vitro in an artificial sweat solution to better gauge firefighters' dermal exposures while mimicking their sweaty skin conditions using an artificial sweat dosing vehicle. Multiple absorption characteristics were calculated, including cumulative absorption, percent dose absorbed, diffusivity, flux, lag time, and permeability. The absorption of the PAHs was greatly influenced by their molecular weight and solubility in the artificial sweat solution. Naphthalene had the greatest dose absorption efficiency (35.0 ± 4.6% dose), followed by phenanthrene (6.8 ± 3.2% dose), and lastly, benzo[a]pyrene, which had the lowest absorption (0.03 ± 0.04% dose). The lag times followed a similar trend. All chemicals had a lag time of approximately 60 min or longer, suggesting that chemical concentrations on the skin may be reduced by immediate skin cleansing practices after fire exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandler Probert
- Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| | - Emma Nixon
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.N.); (R.B.)
| | - R. Bryan Ormond
- Wilson College of Textiles, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
| | - Ronald Baynes
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (E.N.); (R.B.)
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8
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Paiva AM, Barros B, Oliveira M, Alves S, Esteves F, Fernandes A, Vaz J, Slezáková K, Teixeira JP, Costa S, Morais S. Biomonitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure and short-time health effects in wildland firefighters during real-life fire events. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 926:171801. [PMID: 38508274 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Human biomonitoring data retrieved from real-life wildland firefighting in Europe and, also, worldwide are scarce. Thus, in this study, 176 Portuguese firefighters were biomonitored pre- and post- unsimulated wildfire combating (average:12-13 h; maximum: 55 h) to evaluate the impact on the levels of urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons hydroxylated metabolites (OHPAH; quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection) and the associated short-term health effects (symptoms, and total and differentiated white blood cells). Correlations between these variables and data retrieved from the self-reported questionnaires were also investigated. Firefighters were organized into four groups according to their exposure to wildfire emissions and their smoking habits: non-smoking non-exposed (NSNExp), non-smoking exposed (NSExp), smoking non-exposed (SNExp), and smoking and exposed (SExp). The most abundant metabolites were 1-hydroxynaphthalene and 1-hydroxyacenaphthene (1OHNaph + 1OHAce) (98-99 %), followed by 2-hydroxyfluorene (2OHFlu) (0.2-1.1 %), 1-hydroxyphenanthrene (1OHPhen) (0.2-0.4 %), and 1-hydroxypyrene (1OHPy) (0.1-0.2 %); urinary 3-hydroxybenzo(a)pyrene was not detected. The exposure to wildfire emissions significantly elevated the median concentrations of each individual and total OHPAH compounds in all groups, but this effect was more pronounced in non-smoking (1.7-4.2 times; p ≤ 0.006) than in smoking firefighters (1.3-1.6 times; p ≤ 0.03). The greatest discriminant of exposure to wildfire emissions was 1OHNaph + 1OHAce (increase of 4.2 times), while for tobacco smoke it was 2OHFlu (increase of 10 times). Post-exposure, white blood cells count significantly increased ranging from 1.4 (smokers, p = 0.025) to 3.7-fold (non-smokers, p < 0.001), which was accompanied by stronger significant correlations (0.480 < r < 0.882; p < 0.04) between individual and total OHPAH and total white blood cells (and lymphocytes > monocytes > neutrophils in non-smokers), evidencing the impact of PAH released from wildfire on immune cells. This study identifies Portuguese firefighters with high levels of biomarkers of exposure to PAH and points out the importance of adopting biomonitoring schemes, that include multiple biomarkers of exposure and biomarkers of effect, and implementing mitigations strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Paiva
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Bela Barros
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Alves
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, UICISA: E, Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde: Enfermagem, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Filipa Esteves
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Adília Fernandes
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, UICISA: E, Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde: Enfermagem, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Josiana Vaz
- CIMO, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Centro de Investigação de Montanha, Campus Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal; SusTEC, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Sustec - Associate Laboratory for Sustainability and Technology in Inland Regions, Campus Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Klára Slezáková
- LEPABE-ALiCE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Solange Costa
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit, Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal.
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Ladeira C, Møller P, Giovannelli L, Gajski G, Haveric A, Bankoglu EE, Azqueta A, Gerić M, Stopper H, Cabêda J, Tonin FS, Collins A. The Comet Assay as a Tool in Human Biomonitoring Studies of Environmental and Occupational Exposure to Chemicals-A Systematic Scoping Review. TOXICS 2024; 12:270. [PMID: 38668493 PMCID: PMC11054096 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12040270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Biomonitoring of human populations exposed to chemical substances that can act as potential mutagens or carcinogens, may enable the detection of damage and early disease prevention. In recent years, the comet assay has become an important tool for assessing DNA damage, both in environmental and occupational exposure contexts. To evidence the role of the comet assay in human biomonitoring, we have analysed original research studies of environmental or occupational exposure that used the comet assay in their assessments, following the PRISMA-ScR method (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses extension for scoping reviews). Groups of chemicals were designated according to a broad classification, and the results obtained from over 300 original studies (n = 123 on air pollutants, n = 14 on anaesthetics, n = 18 on antineoplastic drugs, n = 57 on heavy metals, n = 59 on pesticides, and n = 49 on solvents) showed overall higher values of DNA strand breaks in the exposed subjects in comparison with the unexposed. In summary, our systematic scoping review strengthens the relevance of the use of the comet assay in assessing DNA damage in human biomonitoring studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Ladeira
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1600-560 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Peter Møller
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Lisa Giovannelli
- Department NEUROFARBA, Section Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy;
| | - Goran Gajski
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (G.G.); (M.G.)
| | - Anja Haveric
- Institute for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
| | - Ezgi Eyluel Bankoglu
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Würzburg, 97078 Würzburg, Germany; (E.E.B.); (H.S.)
| | - Amaya Azqueta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Spain;
| | - Marko Gerić
- Division of Toxicology, Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (G.G.); (M.G.)
| | - Helga Stopper
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Würzburg, 97078 Würzburg, Germany; (E.E.B.); (H.S.)
| | - José Cabêda
- Guarda Nacional Republicana, Destacamento Territorial de Vila Franca de Xira, Núcleo de Proteção Ambiental, 1500-124 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Fernanda S. Tonin
- Pharmaceutical Care Research Group, Universidad de Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain;
| | - Andrew Collins
- Department of Nutrition, University of Oslo, 0316 Oslo, Norway;
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10
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Panumasvivat J, Sapbamrer R, Sittitoon N, Khacha-Ananda S, Kiratipaisarl W, Sirikul W, Insian W, Assavanopakun P. Exploring the adverse effect of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) on wildland firefighters' pulmonary function and DNA damage. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7932. [PMID: 38575786 PMCID: PMC10994925 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58721-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Chiang Mai encounters severe pollution during the wildfire season. Wildland firefighters encounter various hazards while engaged in fire suppression operations, which encompass significant exposure to elevated concentrations of air pollutants resulting from combustion, especially particulate matter. The adverse effects of wildfire smoke on respiratory health are a significant concern. The objective of this study was to examine the potential adverse effects of PM2.5 exposure on the respiratory function and DNA damage of wildland firefighters. This prospective cohort study conducted in Chiang Mai from January to May 2022 planned to evaluate the health status of wildland firefighters during the pre-peak, peak, and post-peak ambient air pollution seasons. The measurement of PM2.5 was done at every forest fire station, as well as utilizing data from the Pollution Control Department. Participants received general health examinations, spirometry evaluations, and blood tests for DNA damage analysis. Pair t-tests and multiple regression models were used to examine the connection between pulmonary function parameters (FVC, FEV1) and PM2.5 concentration, with a significance level of P < 0.05. Thirty-three peak-season and twenty-one post-peak-season participants were enrolled. Four pre-peak-season wildland firefighters had FVC and FEV1 declines of > 15%. Multiple regression analysis showed a negative association between PM2.5 exposure and FVC% predicted (- 2.81%, 95% CI - 5.27 to - 0.34%, P = 0.027) and a marginally significant negative correlation with FVC (- 114.38 ml, 95% CI - 230.36 to 1.59 ml, P = 0.053). The remaining pulmonary measures showed a statistically insignificant decline. There were no significant changes in DNA damage detected. Wildland firefighters suffered a significant decline in pulmonary function associated with PM2.5 exposure. Spirometry is crucial for monitoring and promptly identifying respiratory issues that occur during wildfire seasons. Further research is recommended to explore DNA damage alterations and their potential association with PM2.5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinjuta Panumasvivat
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
- Environmental and Occupational Medicine Excellence Center (EnOMEC), Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Ratana Sapbamrer
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
- Environmental and Occupational Medicine Excellence Center (EnOMEC), Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Nalin Sittitoon
- School of Environmental Health, Institute of Public Health, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, 30000, Thailand
| | - Supakit Khacha-Ananda
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Wuttipat Kiratipaisarl
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Wachiranun Sirikul
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
- Environmental and Occupational Medicine Excellence Center (EnOMEC), Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
- Center of Data Analytics and Knowledge Synthesis for Health Care, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Wittawat Insian
- Office of Disease Prevention and Control 1 Chiang Mai, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Chiang Mai, 50000, Thailand
| | - Pheerasak Assavanopakun
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.
- Environmental and Occupational Medicine Excellence Center (EnOMEC), Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.
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11
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Barros B, Paiva AM, Oliveira M, Alves S, Esteves F, Fernandes A, Vaz J, Slezakova K, Costa S, Teixeira JP, Morais S. Baseline data and associations between urinary biomarkers of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, blood pressure, hemogram, and lifestyle among wildland firefighters. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1338435. [PMID: 38510349 PMCID: PMC10950961 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1338435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Available literature has found an association between firefighting and pathologic pathways leading to cardiorespiratory diseases, which have been linked with exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PAHs are highlighted as priority pollutants by the European Human Biomonitoring Initiative in occupational and non-occupational contexts. Methods This cross-sectional study is the first to simultaneously characterize six creatinine-adjusted PAHs metabolites (OHPAHs) in urine, blood pressure, cardiac frequency, and hemogram parameters among wildland firefighters without occupational exposure to fire emissions (> 7 days), while exploring several variables retrieved via questionnaires. Results Overall, baseline levels for total OHPAHs levels were 2 to 23-times superior to the general population, whereas individual metabolites remained below the general population median range (except for 1-hydroxynaphthalene+1-hydroxyacenaphtene). Exposure to gaseous pollutants and/or particulate matter during work-shift was associated with a 3.5-fold increase in total OHPAHs levels. Firefighters who smoke presented 3-times higher total concentration of OHPAHs than non-smokers (p < 0.001); non-smoker females presented 2-fold lower total OHPAHs (p = 0.049) than males. 1-hydroxypyrene was below the recommended occupational biological exposure value (2.5 μg/L), and the metabolite of carcinogenic PAH (benzo(a)pyrene) was not detected. Blood pressure was above 120/80 mmHg in 71% of subjects. Firefighters from the permanent intervention team presented significantly increased systolic pressure than those who performed other functions (p = 0.034). Tobacco consumption was significantly associated with higher basophils (p = 0.01-0.02) and hematocrit (p = 0.03). No association between OHPAHs and blood pressure was found. OHPAHs concentrations were positively correlated with monocyte, basophils, large immune cells, atypical lymphocytes, and mean corpuscular volume, which were stronger among smokers. Nevertheless, inverse associations were observed between fluorene and pyrene metabolites with neutrophils and eosinophils, respectively, in non-smokers. Hemogram was negatively affected by overworking and lower physical activity. Conclusion This study suggests possible associations between urinary PAHs metabolites and health parameters in firefighters, that should be further assessed in larger groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bela Barros
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Margarida Paiva
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Alves
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, UICISA: E, Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde: Enfermagem, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança Campus de Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Filipa Esteves
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, and Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit – Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Adília Fernandes
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, UICISA: E, Unidade de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde: Enfermagem, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança Campus de Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Josiana Vaz
- CIMO, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Centro de Investigação de Montanha Campus Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
- SusTEC, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Sustec – Associate Laboratory for Sustainability and Technology in Inland Regions – Campus Santa Apolónia, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Klara Slezakova
- LEPABE-ALiCE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, Portugal
| | - Solange Costa
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit – Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit – Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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12
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Zhang Q, Peng K, Xin LH, Zhao J, Li YJ. Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons increases the risk of poor sleep pattern in US adults: results from the NHANES (2005-2010). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:114406-114419. [PMID: 37861841 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30419-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Recently, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were found to be linked to various diseases. The current study's objective was to explore whether or not there was a relation between PAH exposure and poor sleep pattern. We evaluated nine urine PAH metabolites as exposures in our cross-sectional research based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005 to 2010. Logistic regression, restricted cubic spline regression (RCS) model, weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression, subgroup analysis, and mediation analysis were used to assess the associations between PAH metabolism and poor sleep pattern risk. After controlling for all confounding variables, several primary PAH metabolites, namely 1-hydroxynapthalene (1-NAP, OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.04-1.68), 2-hydroxyfluorene (2-FLU, OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.05-1.71), 1-hydroxyphenanthrene (1-PHE, OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.03-1.64), 9-hydroxyfluorene (9-FLU, OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.09-1.74), and ∑PAHs (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.05-1.69), compared to the bottom tertile, were associated with increased risk of poor sleep pattern. The WQS regression analysis showed that 9-FLU and 1-NAP comprised the two most important factors related to poor sleep pattern. Mediation analysis revealed that inflammation acted as a mediator between PAHs and the prevalence of poor sleep pattern. In conclusion, exposure to PAHs may be associated with poor sleep pattern. Inflammation is a mediator of the effects of PAH exposure on poor sleep pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kun Peng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Li-Hong Xin
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu-Jie Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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13
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Barros B, Oliveira M, Morais S. Continent-based systematic review of the short-term health impacts of wildfire emissions. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2023; 26:387-415. [PMID: 37469022 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2023.2236548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
This review systematically gathers and provides an analysis of pollutants levels emitted from wildfire (WF) and their impact on short-term health effects of affected populations. The available literature was searched according to Population, Exposure, Comparator, Outcome, and Study design (PECOS) database defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) and a meta-analysis was conducted whenever possible. Data obtained through PECOS characterized information from the USA, Europe, Australia, and some Asian countries; South American countries were seldom characterized, and no data were available for Africa and Russia. Extremely high levels of pollutants, mostly of fine fraction of particulate matter (PM) and ozone, were associated with intense WF emissions in North America, Oceania, and Asia and reported to exceed several-fold the WHO guidelines. Adverse health outcomes include emergency department visits and hospital admissions for cardiorespiratory diseases as well as mortality. Despite the heterogeneity among exposure and health assessment methods, all-cause mortality, and specific-cause mortality were significantly associated with WF emissions in most of the reports. Globally, a significant association was found for all-cause respiratory outcomes including asthma, but mixed results were noted for cardiovascular-related effects. For the latter, estimates were only significant several days after WF emissions, suggesting a more delayed impact on the heart. Different research gaps are presented, including the need for the application of standardized protocols for assessment of both exposure and adverse health risks. Mitigation actions also need to be strengthened, including dedicated efforts to communicate with the affected populations, to engage them for adoption of protective behaviors and measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bela Barros
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia Do Porto, Instituto Politécnico Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia Do Porto, Instituto Politécnico Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia Do Porto, Instituto Politécnico Do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Barros B, Oliveira M, Morais S. Biomonitoring of firefighting forces: a review on biomarkers of exposure to health-relevant pollutants released from fires. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2023; 26:127-171. [PMID: 36748115 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2023.2172119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure as a firefighter has recently been classified as a carcinogen to humans by International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Biomonitoring has been increasingly used to characterize exposure of firefighting forces to contaminants. However, available data are dispersed and information on the most relevant and promising biomarkers in this context of firefighting is missing. This review presents a comprehensive summary and critical appraisal of existing biomarkers of exposure including volatile organic compounds such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, several other persistent other organic pollutants as well as heavy metals and metalloids detected in biological fluids of firefighters attending different fire scenarios. Urine was the most characterized matrix, followed by blood. Firefighters exhaled breath and saliva were poorly evaluated. Overall, biological levels of compounds were predominantly increased in firefighters after participation in firefighting activities. Biomonitoring studies combining different biomarkers of exposure and of effect are currently limited but exploratory findings are of high interest. However, biomonitoring still has some unresolved major limitations since reference or recommended values are not yet established for most biomarkers. In addition, half-lives values for most of the biomarkers have thus far not been defined, which significantly hampers the design of studies. These limitations need to be tackled urgently to improve risk assessment and support implementation of better more effective preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bela Barros
- REQUIMTE-LAQV,Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE-LAQV,Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE-LAQV,Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Madsen AM, Uhrbrand K, Kofoed VC, Fischer TK, Frederiksen MW. A cohort study of wastewater treatment plant workers: Association between levels of biomarkers of systemic inflammation and exposure to bacteria and fungi, and endotoxin as measured using two methods. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 231:119625. [PMID: 36680819 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.119625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Work in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) can be associated with exposure to airborne microorganisms and endotoxin from the working environment. The aim of this study was to obtain knowledge about whether serum levels of the markers of systemic inflammation, C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid A (SAA), are associated with personal exposure to endotoxin, measured using the Limulus (endotoxinLimulus) and the rFC (endotoxinrFC) assays, as well as bacteria and fungi in a cohort of WWTP workers. Exposure and blood samples were collected for 11 workers over one year. Exposure to endotoxinLimulus-day and endotoxinrFC-day correlated significantly (r = 0.80, p<0.0001, n = 104), but endotoxinLimulus-day was 4.4 (Geometric mean (GM) value) times higher than endotoxinrFC-day (p<0.0001). The endotoxinLimulus-day, endotoxinrFC-day, bacteria, and fungal exposure as well as serum levels of CRP-day (GM=1.4 mg/l) and SAA-day (GM=12 mg/l) differed between workers. Serum levels of SAAday correlated significantly with CRPday (r = 0.30, p = 0.0068). The serum levels of CRPday were associated significantly with exposure to endotoxinLimulus-day. Exposure, SAA and CRP data were also analyzed as av. of each season, and SAAseason was associated positively and significantly with endotoxinLimulus-season and endotoxinrFC-season and negatively with fungalseason exposure. In conclusion, CRPday was associated with the endotoxinLimulus-day and SAAseason with endotoxinLimulus-season and endotoxinrFC-season exposure. Thus, we hereby document that WWTP workers are exposed to airborne endotoxin which seems to have a negative impact on their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Mette Madsen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Katrine Uhrbrand
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Victor Carp Kofoed
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thea K Fischer
- Dept of Clinical Research, Nordsjaellands Hospital, Denmark; Dept of Virus & Microbiological Special Diagnostics, Statens Serum Institut, Denmark
| | - Margit W Frederiksen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Taeger D, Koslitz S, Käfferlein HU, Pelzl T, Heinrich B, Breuer D, Weiss T, Harth V, Behrens T, Brüning T. Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons assessed by biomonitoring of firefighters during fire operations in Germany. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2023; 248:114110. [PMID: 36634384 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Firefighters are exposed to a variety of hazardous substances including carcinogens such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) during firefighting. In order to minimize the uptake of such substances into the body, firefighters wear personal protective equipment. Only few data exist from real-life firefighting missions and under common although highly variable exposure scenarios such as fighting fires in residential buildings, outdoor, and vehicle fires. The aim of this study is to assess the levels of 1-Hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) as marker for incorporated PAH during firefighting operations in Germany using biomonitoring methods. METHODS We analyzed urine samples for 1-OHP from 77 firefighters who reported firefighting operations (with and without creatinine adjustment). Urine samples were collected before (baseline) and, where applicable, after firefighting operations at three time points subsequent (2-4, 6-8, and 12 h). RESULTS Compared to the baseline measurements, mean 1-OHP concentrations after firefighting missions were doubled (0.14 vs. 0.31 μg/L urine, 0.13 μg/g vs. 0.27 μg/g creatinine) and this increase was observed 2-4 h after firefighting. Firefighting in residential buildings (N = 54) and of outdoor and vehicle fires (N = 17) occurred most frequently, whereas blazes, vegetation fires, and fires in underground facilities (N = 6) were rarely encountered. For residential building fires, a 3-fold increase in mean 1-OPH concentrations was observed, whereas no increase could be observed for outdoor and vehicle fires. The highest increase was observed for firefighters with interior attack missions (0.11 μg/L vs. 0.48 μg/L 1-OHP) despite the use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). During the suppression of outdoor or vehicle fires using SCBA, again, no increase was observed. Although PAH are taken up during certain firefighting missions, the 1-OHP levels almost entirely remained (in 64 of the 77 reported missions) within the normal range of the German general population, i.e., below the reference levels (95th percentiles) of smokers (0.73 μg/g creatinine) and non-smokers (0.30 μg/g creatine). CONCLUSION Under study conditions, properly applied protective clothing and wearing of SCBA led to a significant reduction of PAH exposure levels. But there are individual situations in which PAH are increasingly incorporated since the incorporation depends on several factors and can be extremely variable. In contrast to many workplaces with high occupational exposure levels, firefighters are not exposed to PAH on a daily basis. Nevertheless, the possibility of an individual increased cancer risk for a particular firefighter cannot completely be ruled out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Taeger
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany.
| | - Stephan Koslitz
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Heiko U Käfferlein
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Tim Pelzl
- Unfallkasse Baden-Württemberg (UKBW), Germany
| | - Birgit Heinrich
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Dietmar Breuer
- Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance (IFA), Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Tobias Weiss
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Volker Harth
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Germany
| | - Thomas Behrens
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Brüning
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
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Zhang S, Funahashi Y, Tanaka S, Okubo T, Thapa J, Nakamura S, Higashi H, Yamaguchi H. Chlamydia trachomatis relies on the scavenger role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor with detyrosinated tubulin for its intracellular growth, but this is impaired by excess indole. Microbes Infect 2023; 25:105097. [PMID: 36608767 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2022.105097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Although IFN-γ depletes tryptophan (Trp) as a defense against intracellular Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infected to hypoxic vagina, the presence of indole, a precursor of Trp, enables Ct to infect IFN-γ-exposed culture cells. Meanwhile, Trp-derived indole derivatives interact the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which is a ligand-dependent transcription factor involved in the cellular homeostasis with tubulin dynamics. Here, the amounts of IFN-γ and indole in cervical swabs with known Ct infection status were measured, and Ct growth in the presence of indole was determined from the perspective of the AhR axis under hypoxia. A positive correlation between the amounts of IFN-γ and indole was found, and both of these amounts were lower in Ct-positive swabs than in Ct-negative ones. Indole as well as other AhR ligands inhibited Ct growth, especially under normoxia. Ct prompted the expression of detyrosinated tubulin (dTTub), but indole inhibited it. Indole did not stimulate the translocation of AhR to nucleus, and it blocked AhR activation in AhR-reporter cells. Ct growth was reduced more effectively under normoxia in AhR-knockdown cells, an effect that was enhanced by indole, which in turn diminished dTTub. Thus, Ct growth relies on the scavenger role of cytosolic AhR responsible for promoting dTTub expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saicheng Zhang
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan.
| | - Yuki Funahashi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan.
| | - Satoho Tanaka
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan.
| | - Torahiko Okubo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan.
| | - Jeewan Thapa
- Division of Bioresources, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, North-20, West-10, Kita-ku, Sapporo 001-0020, Japan.
| | - Shinji Nakamura
- Division of Biomedical Imaging Research, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan; Division of Ultrastructural Research, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan.
| | - Hideaki Higashi
- Division of Infection and Immunity, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, North-20, West-10, Kita-ku, Sapporo 001-0020, Japan.
| | - Hiroyuki Yamaguchi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-5, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan.
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Barbosa JV, Farraia M, Branco PTBS, Alvim-Ferraz MCM, Martins FG, Annesi-Maesano I, Sousa SIV. The Effect of Fire Smoke Exposure on Firefighters' Lung Function: A Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16799. [PMID: 36554677 PMCID: PMC9779288 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are exposed to a range of harmful substances during firefighting. Exposure to fire smoke has been associated with a decrease in their lung function. However, the cause-effect relationship between those two factors is not yet demonstrated. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the potential associations between firefighters' occupational exposure and their lung function deterioration. Studies were identified from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Science Direct databases (August 1990-March 2021). The studies were included when reporting the lung function values of Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 s (FEV1) or Forced Vital Capacity (FVC). The meta-analyses were performed using the generic inverse variance in R software with a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis was used to determine if the lung function was influenced by a potential study effect or by the participants' characteristics. A total of 5562 participants from 24 studies were included. No significant difference was found between firefighters' predicted FEV1 from wildland, 97.64% (95% CI: 91.45-103.82%; I2 = 99%), and urban fires, 99.71% (95% CI: 96.75-102.67%; I2 = 98%). Similar results were found for the predicted FVC. Nevertheless, the mean values of firefighters' predicted lung function varied significantly among studies, suggesting many confounders, such as trials' design, statistical methods, methodologies applied, firefighters' daily exposure and career length, hindering an appropriate comparison between the studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana V. Barbosa
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Farraia
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro T. B. S. Branco
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Conceição M. Alvim-Ferraz
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernando G. Martins
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Isabella Annesi-Maesano
- Desbrest Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health (IDESP), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Montpellier University, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | - Sofia I. V. Sousa
- Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy (LEPABE), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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Barros B, Oliveira M, Morais S. Unveiling Urinary Mutagenicity by the Ames Test for Occupational Risk Assessment: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13074. [PMID: 36293654 PMCID: PMC9603210 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure may involve a variety of toxic compounds. A mutagenicity analysis using the Ames test can provide valuable information regarding the toxicity of absorbed xenobiotics. Through a search of relevant databases, this systematic review gathers and critically discusses the published papers (excluding other types of publications) from 2001-2021 that have assessed urinary mutagenicity (Ames test with Salmonella typhimurium) in an occupational exposure context. Due to the heterogeneity of the study methods, a meta-analysis could not be conducted. The characterized occupations were firefighters, traffic policemen, bus drivers, mail carriers, coke oven and charcoal workers, chemical laboratory staff, farmers, pharmacy workers, and professionals from several other industrial sectors. The genetically modified bacterial strains (histidine dependent) TA98, TA100, YG1041, YG1021, YG1024 and YG1042 have been used for the health risk assessment of individual (e.g., polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) and mixtures of compounds (e.g., diesel engine exhaust, fire smoke, industrial fumes/dyes) in different contexts. Although comparison of the data between studies is challenging, urinary mutagenicity can be very informative of possible associations between work-related exposure and the respective mutagenic potential. Careful interpretation of results and their direct use for occupational health risk assessment are crucial and yet complex; the use of several strains is highly recommended since individual and/or synergistic effects of complex exposure to xenobiotics can be overlooked. Future studies should improve the methods used to reach a standardized protocol for specific occupational environments to strengthen the applicability of the urinary mutagenicity assay and reduce inter- and intra-individual variability and exposure source confounders.
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Sousa G, Teixeira J, Delerue-Matos C, Sarmento B, Morais S, Wang X, Rodrigues F, Oliveira M. Exposure to PAHs during Firefighting Activities: A Review on Skin Levels, In Vitro/In Vivo Bioavailability, and Health Risks. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12677. [PMID: 36231977 PMCID: PMC9565977 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure as a firefighter is a complex activity that continuously exposes subjects to several health hazards including fire emissions during firefighting. Firefighters are exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), known as toxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic compounds, by inhalation, dermal contact, and ingestion. In this work, a literature overview of firefighters' dermal exposure to PAHs after firefighting and data retrieved from skin in vitro/in vivo studies related to their dermal absorption, bioavailability, and associated toxicological and carcinogenic effects are reviewed. The evidence demonstrates the contamination of firefighters' skin with PAHs, mainly on the neck (2.23-62.50 ng/cm2), wrists (0.37-8.30 ng/cm2), face (2.50-4.82 ng/cm2), and hands (1.59-4.69 ng/cm2). Concentrations of possible/probable carcinogens (0.82-33.69 ng/cm2), including benzopyrene isomers, were found on firefighters' skin. PAHs penetrate the skin tissues, even at low concentrations, by absorption and/or diffusion, and are locally metabolized and distributed by the blood route to other tissues/organs. Lighter PAHs presented increased dermal permeabilities and absorption rates than heavier compounds. Topical PAHs activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and promote the enzymatic generation of reactive intermediates that may cause protein and/or DNA adducts. Future research should include in vitro/in vivo assays to perform a more realistic health risk assessment and to explore the contribution of dermal exposure to PAHs total internal dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Sousa
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Teixeira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sarmento
- CESPU-Instituto de Investigação e Formação Avançada em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde, Instituto Universitário de Ciências da Saúde, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Xianyu Wang
- QAEHS-Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Francisca Rodrigues
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
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Orysiak J, Młynarczyk M, Piec R, Jakubiak A. Lifestyle and environmental factors may induce airway and systemic inflammation in firefighters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:73741-73768. [PMID: 36094704 PMCID: PMC9465149 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22479-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Health status depends on multiple genetic and non-genetic factors. Nonheritable factors (such as lifestyle and environmental factors) have stronger impact on immune responses than genetic factors. Firefighters work is associated with exposure to air pollution and heat stress, as well as: extreme physical effort, mental stress, or a changed circadian rhythm, among others. All these factors can contribute to both, short-term and long-term impairment of the physical and mental health of firefighters. Increased levels of some inflammatory markers, such as pro-inflammatory cytokines or C-reactive protein (CRP) have been observed in firefighters, which can lead to local, acute inflammation that promotes a systemic inflammatory response. It is worth emphasizing that inflammation is one of the main hallmarks of cancer and also plays a key role in the development of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. This article presents possible causes of the development of an inflammatory reaction in firefighters, with particular emphasis on airway inflammation caused by smoke exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Orysiak
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Czerniakowska St. 16, 00-701, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Młynarczyk
- Central Institute for Labour Protection - National Research Institute, Czerniakowska St. 16, 00-701, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Robert Piec
- Institute of Internal Security, The Main School of Fire Service, Słowackiego St. 52/54, 01-629, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Jakubiak
- Department of Heart Failure and Cardiac Rehabilitation, Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki and Wigury St. 61, 02-091, Warsaw, Poland
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Horn GP, Fent KW, Kerber S, Smith DL. Hierarchy of contamination control in the fire service: Review of exposure control options to reduce cancer risk. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2022; 19:538-557. [PMID: 35853136 PMCID: PMC9928012 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2022.2100406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The international fire service community is actively engaged in a wide range of activities focused on development, testing, and implementation of effective approaches to reduce exposure to contaminants and the related cancer risk. However, these activities are often viewed independent of each other and in the absence of the larger overall effort of occupational health risk mitigation. This narrative review synthesizes the current research on fire service contamination control in the context of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Hierarchy of Controls, a framework that supports decision making around implementing feasible and effective control solutions in occupational settings. Using this approach, we identify evidence-based measures that have been investigated and that can be implemented to protect firefighters during an emergency response, in the fire apparatus and at the fire station, and identify several knowledge gaps that remain. While a great deal of research and development has been focused on improving personal protective equipment for the various risks faced by the fire service, these measures are considered less effective. Administrative and engineering controls that can be used during and after the firefight have also received increased research interest in recent years. However, less research and development have been focused on higher level control measures such as engineering, substitution, and elimination, which may be the most effective, but are challenging to implement. A comprehensive approach that considers each level of control and how it can be implemented, and that is mindful of the need to balance contamination risk reduction against the fire service mission to save lives and protect property, is likely to be the most effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin P Horn
- Fire Safety Research Institute, UL Research Institutes, Columbia, Maryland
- Illinois Fire Service Institute, Champaign, Illinois
| | - Kenneth W Fent
- National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Steve Kerber
- Fire Safety Research Institute, UL Research Institutes, Columbia, Maryland
| | - Denise L Smith
- Illinois Fire Service Institute, Champaign, Illinois
- Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, New York
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Louro H, Gomes BC, Saber AT, Iamiceli AL, Göen T, Jones K, Katsonouri A, Neophytou CM, Vogel U, Ventura C, Oberemm A, Duca RC, Fernandez MF, Olea N, Santonen T, Viegas S, Silva MJ. The Use of Human Biomonitoring to Assess Occupational Exposure to PAHs in Europe: A Comprehensive Review. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10080480. [PMID: 36006159 PMCID: PMC9414426 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10080480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are among the chemicals with proven impact on workers' health. The use of human biomonitoring (HBM) to assess occupational exposure to PAHs has become more common in recent years, but the data generated need an overall view to make them more usable by regulators and policymakers. This comprehensive review, developed under the Human Biomonitoring for Europe (HBM4EU) Initiative, was based on the literature available from 2008-2022, aiming to present and discuss the information on occupational exposure to PAHs, in order to identify the strengths and limitations of exposure and effect biomarkers and the knowledge needs for regulation in the workplace. The most frequently used exposure biomarker is urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OH-PYR), a metabolite of pyrene. As effect biomarkers, those based on the measurement of oxidative stress (urinary 8-oxo-dG adducts) and genotoxicity (blood DNA strand-breaks) are the most common. Overall, a need to advance new harmonized approaches both in data and sample collection and in the use of appropriate biomarkers in occupational studies to obtain reliable and comparable data on PAH exposure in different industrial sectors, was noted. Moreover, the use of effect biomarkers can assist to identify work environments or activities of high risk, thus enabling preventive risk mitigation and management measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriqueta Louro
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Av. Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal
- Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health (ToxOmics), Nova Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bruno Costa Gomes
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Av. Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal
- Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health (ToxOmics), Nova Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Anne Thoustrup Saber
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Thomas Göen
- IPASUM, Institute and Outpatient Clinic of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kate Jones
- Health and Safety Executive, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 9JN, UK
| | - Andromachi Katsonouri
- Cyprus State General Laboratory, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 28648, Nicosia 2081, Cyprus
| | - Christiana M. Neophytou
- Cyprus State General Laboratory, Ministry of Health, P.O. Box 28648, Nicosia 2081, Cyprus
- Department of Life Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus
| | - Ulla Vogel
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kemitorvet, Bygning 202, DK-2800 Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Célia Ventura
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Av. Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal
- Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health (ToxOmics), Nova Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Axel Oberemm
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Max-Dohrn-Straße 8-10, 10589 Berlin, Germany
| | - Radu Corneliu Duca
- Unit Environmental Hygiene and Human Biological Monitoring, Department of Health Protection, Laboratoire National de Santé (LNS), 1, Rue Louis Rech, 3555 Dudelange, Luxembourg
- Centre for Environment and Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), O&N 5b, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mariana F. Fernandez
- Centre of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), 18012 Granada, Spain
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nicolas Olea
- Centre of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), 18012 Granada, Spain
- CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Tiina Santonen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, 00250 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Susana Viegas
- Public Health Research Centre, NOVA National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1600-560 Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria João Silva
- Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Av. Padre Cruz, 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal
- Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health (ToxOmics), Nova Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria, 130, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
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Hwang J, Xu C, Grunsted P, Agnew RJ, Malone TR, Clifton S, Thompson K, Xu X. Urinary Metabolites of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Firefighters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:8475. [PMID: 35886320 PMCID: PMC9318785 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are intermittently exposed to complex, mixed pollutants in random settings. Of those pollutants, PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) are the most commonly studied and best understood. PAH exposure can occur via multiple routes; therefore, the levels of hydroxylated metabolites of PAHs in urine have been used as a biomonitoring tool for risk assessment. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature to estimate the levels of urinary hydroxylated PAH (OHPAH) among firefighters, determine risk attributions, and, finally, evaluate the scope of preventive efforts and their utility as diagnostic tools. The meta-regression confirmed increases in OHPAH concentrations after fire activities by up to 1.71-times (p-values: <0.0001). Samples collected at a time point of 2−4 h after a fire suppression showed a consistent, statistically significant pattern as compared with baseline samples. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard 1582 Standard on Comprehensive Occupational Medical Program for Fire Departments lists various health examinations, including a urinalysis for occupational chemical exposure if indicated and medical screening for cancers and cardiovascular diseases. Biomonitoring is a valuable screening tool for assessing occupational exposure and the results of this meta-analysis support their inclusion in regular health screenings for firefighters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jooyeon Hwang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Chao Xu
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; (C.X.); (P.G.)
| | - Paul Grunsted
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; (C.X.); (P.G.)
| | - Robert J. Agnew
- Fire Protection & Safety Engineering Technology Program, College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA;
| | - Tara R. Malone
- Department of Health Sciences Library and Information Management, Graduate College, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; (T.R.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Shari Clifton
- Department of Health Sciences Library and Information Management, Graduate College, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; (T.R.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Krista Thompson
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
| | - Xin Xu
- Shanghai Anti-Doping Laboratory, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai 200438, China;
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25
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Wu X, Cao X, Lintelmann J, Peters A, Koenig W, Zimmermann R, Schneider A, Wolf K. Assessment of the association of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, oxidative stress, and inflammation: A cross-sectional study in Augsburg, Germany. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2022; 244:113993. [PMID: 35777219 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2022.113993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) has been linked to acute and chronic health effects through the suggested pathways of oxidative stress and inflammation. However, evidence is still limited. We aimed to investigate jointly the relationship of PAHs, oxidative stress, and inflammation. METHODS We measured 13 biomarkers of PAH exposure (n = 6: hydroxylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, [OH-PAHs]), oxidative stress (n = 6: malondialdehyde (MDA); 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG); and 4 representatives of the compound class of F2α-isoprostanes) in urine, and inflammation (n = 1: high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, [hs-CRP]) in serum from 400 participants at the second follow-up (2013/2014) of the German KORA survey S4. Multiple linear regression models were applied to investigate the interplay between biomarkers. RESULTS Concentrations of biomarkers varied according to sex, age, smoking status, season, and a history of obesity, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease. All OH-PAHs were significantly and positively associated with oxidative stress biomarkers. An interquartile range (IQR) increase in sum OH-PAHs was associated with a 13.3% (95% CI: 9.9%, 16.9%) increase in MDA, a 6.5% (95% CI: 3.5%, 9.6%) increase in 8-OHdG, and an 8.4% (95% CI: 6.6%, 11.3%) increase in sum F2α-isoprostanes. Associations were more pronounced between OH-PAHs and F2α-isoprostanes but also between OH-PAHs and 8-OHdG for participants with potential underlying systemic inflammation (hs-CRP ≥ 3 mg/L). We observed no association between OH-PAHs and hs-CRP levels. While 8-OHdG was significantly positively associated with hs-CRP (13.7% [95% CI: 2.2%, 26.5%] per IQR increase in 8-OHdG), F2α-isoprostanes and MDA indicated only a positive or null association, respectively. CONCLUSION The results of this cross-sectional study suggest, at a population level, that exposure to PAHs is associated with oxidative stress even in a low exposure setting. Oxidative stress markers, but not PAHs, were associated with inflammation. Individual risk factors were important contributors to these processes and should be considered in future studies. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to investigate the causal chain of the associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wu
- Division of Analytical and Technical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany; Cooperation Group of Comprehensive Molecular Analytics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Xin Cao
- Division of Analytical and Technical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany; Cooperation Group of Comprehensive Molecular Analytics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jutta Lintelmann
- Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Annette Peters
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research, Munich, Germany; Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Medical Faculty, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Koenig
- German Heart Centre Munich, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; DZHK, German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Munich, Munich, Germany; Institute of Epidemiology and Medical Biometry, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ralf Zimmermann
- Division of Analytical and Technical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany; Cooperation Group of Comprehensive Molecular Analytics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | | | - Kathrin Wolf
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany.
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26
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Bitounis D, Huang Q, Toprani SM, Setyawati MI, Oliveira N, Wu Z, Tay CY, Ng KW, Nagel ZD, Demokritou P. Printer center nanoparticles alter the DNA repair capacity of human bronchial airway epithelial cells. NANOIMPACT 2022; 25:100379. [PMID: 35559885 PMCID: PMC9661631 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2022.100379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Nano-enabled, toner-based printing equipment emit nanoparticles during operation. The bioactivity of these nanoparticles as documented in a plethora of published toxicological studies raises concerns about their potential health effects. These include pro-inflammatory effects that can lead to adverse epigenetic alterations and cardiovascular disorders in rats. At the same time, their potential to alter DNA repair pathways at realistic doses remains unclear. In this study, size-fractionated, airborne particles from a printer center in Singapore were sampled and characterized. The PM0.1 size fraction (particles with an aerodynamic diameter less than 100 nm) of printer center particles (PCP) were then administered to human lung adenocarcinoma (Calu-3) or lymphoblastoid (TK6) cells. We evaluated plasma membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Moreover, we quantified DNA damage and alterations in the cells' capacity to repair 6 distinct types of DNA lesions. Results show that PCP altered the ability of Calu-3 cells to repair 8oxoG:C lesions and perform nucleotide excision repair, in the absence of acute cytotoxicity or DNA damage. Alterations in DNA repair capacity have been correlated with the risk of various diseases, including cancer, therefore further genotoxicity studies are needed to assess the potential risks of PCP exposure, at both occupational settings and at the end-consumer level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Bitounis
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 655 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Qiansheng Huang
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 655 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Center for Excellence in Regional Atmospheric Environment, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Sneh M Toprani
- John B. Little Center of Radiation Sciences, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Magdiel I Setyawati
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Nathalia Oliveira
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 655 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Zhuoran Wu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Chor Yong Tay
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore; Environmental Chemistry and Materials Centre, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institution, 1 Cleantech Loop, CleanTech One, Singapore 637141, Singapore; School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 637551, Singapore
| | - Kee Woei Ng
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 655 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA; School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore; Environmental Chemistry and Materials Centre, Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institution, 1 Cleantech Loop, CleanTech One, Singapore 637141, Singapore
| | - Zachary D Nagel
- John B. Little Center of Radiation Sciences, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Philip Demokritou
- Center for Nanotechnology and Nanotoxicology, Department of Environmental Health, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, 655 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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27
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Measurement of oxidatively damaged DNA in mammalian cells using the comet assay: Reflections on validity, reliability and variability. MUTATION RESEARCH. GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2022; 873:503423. [PMID: 35094807 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2021.503423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The comet assay is a simple technique for measurements of low levels of DNA damage and repair in single cells. However, there is variation in background levels of DNA damage in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). This variation has been documented by inter-laboratory ring-trials where identical samples have been analysed in different laboratories using the formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase (Fpg)-modified comet assay. The coefficient of variation of background levels of Fpg-sensitive sites was 128 % in the first inter-laboratory validation trial called European Standards Committee on Oxidative DNA Damage. The variation was reduced to 44 % by the end of the project. Subsequent ring-trials by the European Comet Assay Validation Group showed similar inter-laboratory variation in Fpg-sensitive sites in PBMCs (45 %). The lowest inter-laboratory variation in Fpg-sensitive sites in PBMCs was 12 % when using calibration to standardize comet assay descriptors. Introduction of standard comet assay procedures was surprisingly unsuccessful as certain laboratories experienced technical problems using unaccustomed assay conditions. This problem was alleviated by using flexible assay standard conditions rather than a standard protocol in a ring-trial by the hCOMET group. The approach reduced technical problems, but the inter-laboratory variation in Fpg-sensitive sites was not reduced. The ring-trials have not pinpointed specific assay steps as major determinants of the variation in DNA damage levels. It is likely that small differences in several steps cause inter-laboratory variation. Although this variation in reported DNA damage levels causes concern, ring-trials have also shown that the comet assay is a reliable tool in biomonitoring studies.
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Abstract
Firefighters are the professional force at high risk of suffering potential health consequences due to their chronic exposure to numerous hazardous pollutants during firefighting activities. Unfortunately, determination of fire emission exposure is very challenging. As such, the identification and development of appropriate biomarkers is critical in meeting this need. This chapter presents a critical review of current information related with the use of different urinary biomarkers of effect and exposure in occupationally exposed firefighters over the last 25 years. Evidence suggests that urinary isoprostanes and mutagenicity testing are promising biomarkers of early oxidative stress. Data indicate that firefighters participating in firefighting activities present with increased urinary biomarkers of exposure. These include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, heavy metals and metalloids, organo-chlorine and -phosphorus compounds, environmental phenols, phthalates, benzene and toluene. More studies are urgently needed to better evaluate firefighter occupational safety and health and to support the implementation of preventive measures and mitigation strategies to promote the protection of this chronically exposed group of workers.
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Møller P, Roursgaard M. Biomarkers of DNA Oxidation Products: Links to Exposure and Disease in Public Health Studies. Chem Res Toxicol 2021; 34:2235-2250. [PMID: 34704445 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.1c00213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Environmental exposure can increase the production of reactive oxygen species and deplete cellular antioxidants in humans, resulting in oxidatively generated damage to DNA that is both a useful biomarker of oxidative stress and indicator of carcinogenic hazard. Methods of oxidatively damaged DNA analysis have been developed and used in public health research since the 1990s. Advanced techniques detect specific lesions, but they might not be applicable to complex matrixes (e.g., tissues), small sample volume, and large-scale studies. The most reliable methods are characterized by (1) detecting relevant DNA oxidation products (e.g., premutagenic lesions), (2) not harboring technical problems, (3) being applicable to complex biological mixtures, and (4) having the ability to process a large number of samples in a reasonable period of time. Most effort has been devoted to the measurements of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanine (8-oxodG), which can be analyzed by chromatographic, enzymic, and antibody-based methods. Results from validation trials have shown that certain chromatographic and enzymic assays (namely the comet assay) are superior techniques. The enzyme-modified comet assay has been popular because it is technically simpler than chromatographic assays. It is widely used in public health studies on environmental exposures such as outdoor air pollution. Validated biomarker assays on oxidatively damaged DNA have been used to fill knowledge gaps between findings in prospective cohort studies and hazards from contemporary sources of air pollution exposures. Results from each of these research fields feed into public health research as approaches to conduct primary prevention of diseases caused by environmental or occupational agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Møller
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Martin Roursgaard
- Section of Environmental Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014 Copenhagen K, Denmark
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30
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Barros B, Oliveira M, Morais S. Firefighters' occupational exposure: Contribution from biomarkers of effect to assess health risks. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 156:106704. [PMID: 34161906 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Firefighting is physically and physiologically exhausting besides encompassing exposure to toxic fire emissions. Biomonitoring studies from the past five years have been significantly contributing to characterize the occupational-related health effects in this group of professionals and to improve risk assessment. Therefore, this study gathers and critically discusses the most characterized biomarkers of effect (oxidative stress, DNA and protein damage, stress hormones, inflammation, and vascular, lung, and liver injury), including those potentially more promising to be explored in future studies, and their relation with health outcomes. Various studies proved an association between exposures to fire emissions and/or heat and significantly altered values of biomarkers of inflammation (soluble adhesion molecules, tumor necrosis factor, interleukins, and leucocyte count), vascular damage and tissue injury (pentraxin-3, vascular endothelial growth factor, and cardiac troponin T) in firefighting forces. Moreover, preliminary data of DNA damage in blood, urinary mutagenicity and 8-isoprostaglandin in exhaled breath condensate suggest that these biomarkers of oxidative stress should be further explored. However, most of the reported studies are based on cross-sectional designs, which limit full identification and characterization of the risk factors and their association with development of work-related diseases. Broader studies based on longitudinal designs and strongly supported by the analysis of several types of biomarkers in different biological fluids are further required to gain deeper insights into the firefighters occupational related health hazards and contribute to implementation of new or improved surveillance programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bela Barros
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto
| | - Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto.
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31
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Andersen MHG, Saber AT, Frederiksen M, Clausen PA, Sejbaek CS, Hemmingsen CH, Ebbehøj NE, Catalán J, Aimonen K, Koivisto J, Loft S, Møller P, Vogel U. Occupational exposure and markers of genetic damage, systemic inflammation and lung function: a Danish cross-sectional study among air force personnel. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17998. [PMID: 34504215 PMCID: PMC8429754 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97382-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Air force ground crew personnel are potentially exposed to fuels and lubricants, as raw materials, vapours and combustion exhaust emissions, during operation and maintenance of aircrafts. This study investigated exposure levels and biomarkers of effects for employees at a Danish air force military base. We enrolled self-reported healthy and non-smoking employees (n = 79) and grouped them by exposure based on job function, considered to be potentially exposed (aircraft engineers, crew chiefs, fuel operators and munition specialists) or as reference group with minimal occupational exposure (avionics and office workers). We measured exposure levels to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and organophosphate esters (OPEs) by silicone bands and skin wipes (PAHs only) as well as urinary excretion of PAH metabolites (OH-PAHs). Additionally, we assessed exposure levels of ultrafine particles (UFPs) in the breathing zone for specific job functions. As biomarkers of effect, we assessed lung function, plasma levels of acute phase inflammatory markers, and genetic damage levels in peripheral blood cells. Exposure levels of total PAHs, OPEs and OH-PAHs did not differ between exposure groups or job functions, with low correlations between PAHs in different matrices. Among the measured job functions, the UFP levels were higher for the crew chiefs. The exposure level of the PAH fluorene was significantly higher for the exposed group than the reference group (15.9 ± 23.7 ng/g per 24 h vs 5.28 ± 7.87 ng/g per 24 h, p = 0.007), as was the OPE triphenyl phosphate (305 ± 606 vs 19.7 ± 33.8 ng/g per 24 h, p = 0.011). The OPE tris(1,3-dichlor-2-propyl)phosphate had a higher mean in the exposed group (60.7 ± 135 ng/g per 24 h) compared to the reference group (8.89 ± 15.7 ng/g per 24 h) but did not reach significance. No evidence of effects for biomarkers of systemic inflammation, genetic damage or lung function was found. Overall, our biomonitoring study show limited evidence of occupational exposure of air force ground crew personnel to UFPs, PAHs and OPEs. Furthermore, the OH-PAHs and the assessed biomarkers of early biological effects did not differ between exposed and reference groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne Thoustrup Saber
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Marie Frederiksen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Per Axel Clausen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Camilla Sandal Sejbaek
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Caroline Hallas Hemmingsen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Bispebjerg Bakke 23, 2400, Copenhagen, NV, Denmark
| | - Niels E Ebbehøj
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Bispebjerg Bakke 23, 2400, Copenhagen, NV, Denmark
| | - Julia Catalán
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 40, 00032, Työterveyslaitos, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Genetics, University of Zaragoza, 50013, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Kukka Aimonen
- Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 40, 00032, Työterveyslaitos, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Joonas Koivisto
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.,ARCHE Consulting, Liefkensstraat 35D, 9032, Wondelgem, Belgium
| | - Steffen Loft
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, 1014, Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Peter Møller
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, 1014, Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Ulla Vogel
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkallé 105, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark. .,Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kgs, Lyngby, Denmark.
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Jeng PH, Huang TR, Wang CC, Chen WL. Clinical Relevance of Urine Flow Rate and Exposure to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18105372. [PMID: 34070005 PMCID: PMC8157826 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18105372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) metabolites have received increasing attention because several of these organic substances are highly carcinogenic or mutagenic. Exposure to PAHs is associated with many harmful health effects; however, we are not aware of any study that has explored the exposure to PAHs and urinary conditions in the general population. The present work aimed to investigate the correlation among PAH and urine flow rate (UFR). Method: Cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009–2012 were used in our study. A total of 4172 participants and a total of nine PAH metabolites were examined. The UFR was measured as the amount of urine excreted in a period of time (mL/h). Several covariates were adjusted in linear regression models. Result: After adjusting for variables, the PAH metabolites in urine showed a significant correlation with UFR. Dose-dependent associations between PAH metabolites in the urine and UFR were also found. Higher quartiles of PAH metabolites in urine exhibited higher regression coefficients. Conclusion: Our study highlighted that PAH metabolites in urine had a strong association with decreased UFR in the US adult population. These findings support the possibility that PAH exposure is related to bladder dysfunction. Further prospective studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Hsuan Jeng
- Department of General Medicine, School of Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan; (P.-H.J.); (T.-R.H.)
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei 114, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Ru Huang
- Department of General Medicine, School of Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan; (P.-H.J.); (T.-R.H.)
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei 114, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ching Wang
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Division of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan;
| | - Wei-Liang Chen
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Division of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan;
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, School of Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-87923311 (ext. 16567)
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Chen H, Samet JM, Bromberg PA, Tong H. Cardiovascular health impacts of wildfire smoke exposure. Part Fibre Toxicol 2021; 18:2. [PMID: 33413506 PMCID: PMC7791832 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-020-00394-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, wildland fires have occurred more frequently and with increased intensity in many fire-prone areas. In addition to the direct life and economic losses attributable to wildfires, the emitted smoke is a major contributor to ambient air pollution, leading to significant public health impacts. Wildfire smoke is a complex mixture of particulate matter (PM), gases such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds. PM from wildfire smoke has a high content of elemental carbon and organic carbon, with lesser amounts of metal compounds. Epidemiological studies have consistently found an association between exposure to wildfire smoke (typically monitored as the PM concentration) and increased respiratory morbidity and mortality. However, previous reviews of the health effects of wildfire smoke exposure have not established a conclusive link between wildfire smoke exposure and adverse cardiovascular effects. In this review, we systematically evaluate published epidemiological observations, controlled clinical exposure studies, and toxicological studies focusing on evidence of wildfire smoke exposure and cardiovascular effects, and identify knowledge gaps. Improving exposure assessment and identifying sensitive cardiovascular endpoints will serve to better understand the association between exposure to wildfire smoke and cardiovascular effects and the mechanisms involved. Similarly, filling the knowledge gaps identified in this review will better define adverse cardiovascular health effects of exposure to wildfire smoke, thus informing risk assessments and potentially leading to the development of targeted interventional strategies to mitigate the health impacts of wildfire smoke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, TN, 37830, USA.
| | - James M Samet
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Philip A Bromberg
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Haiyan Tong
- Public Health and Integrated Toxicology Division, Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA.
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B-Comet Assay (Comet Assay on Buccal Cells) for the Evaluation of Primary DNA Damage in Human Biomonitoring Studies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17249234. [PMID: 33321868 PMCID: PMC7763633 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17249234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Many subjects perceive venous blood collection as too invasive, and thus moving to better-accepted procedures for leukocytes collection might be crucial in human biomonitoring studies (e.g., biomonitoring of occupational or residential exposure to genotoxins) management. In this context, primary DNA damage was assessed in buccal lymphocytes (BLs), fresh whole venous, and capillary blood leukocytes, and compared with that in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs)—the most frequently used cells—in 15 young subjects. Mouthwashes were collected after the volunteers rinsed their mouths with normal saline, and BLs were isolated by density gradient centrifugation. Blood samples were collected by venipuncture or by lancet. Anthropometric and lifestyle information was obtained by the administration of a structured questionnaire. As shown in the Bland-Altman plots, the level of agreement between BLs and PBLs lied within the accepted range, we thus enrolled a wider population (n = 54) to assess baseline DNA damage in BLs. In these cells, mean values of tail length (µm), tail intensity (%), and tail moment were 25.7 ± 0.9, 6.7 ± 0.4 and 1.0 ± 0.1, respectively. No significant association was observed between sex and smoking habit with any of the DNA damage parameters. Conversely, underweight subjects displayed significantly higher genomic instability compared with normal weight group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, we successfully managed to set up and update a non-invasive and well-accepted procedure for the isolation of BLs from saliva that could be useful in upcoming biomonitoring studies.
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Banks APW, Thai P, Engelsman M, Wang X, Osorio AF, Mueller JF. Characterising the exposure of Australian firefighters to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons generated in simulated compartment fires. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2020; 231:113637. [PMID: 33080523 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2020.113637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are exposed to a wide variety of chemicals including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) while attending fire scenes. The objective of this study was to understand the exposure of firefighters to PAHs when attending simulated compartment fires that consisted of either a diesel pan or particleboard fire. Firefighters remained in the compartment fires for 15 min while using standard gear including self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Firefighters were able to remove firefighting clothing and shower within 10 min of leaving the burn. Air samples were collected from inside the compartment during the fire. Twenty-six (26) firefighters participated in the study providing urine and skin wipe samples collected from the wrist and neck before and after either one of the burn types. The concentrations of PAHs were measured in skin wipes and air samples, while concentrations of monohydroxy metabolites of PAHs (OH-PAHs) were measured in urine. The concentrations of all PAHs were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the smoke layer of particleboard fires than in diesel pan fires. Correspondingly, the level of PAHs deposited on the wrists and necks of participants attending the particleboard fires was higher than those attending diesel pan fires. Urine samples from participants who attended diesel pan fires showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the concentration of all OH-PAHs between pre-burn and post-burn. Samples from participants who attended particleboard fires, showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) between 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OH-PYR) concentrations in urine pre- and post-burn. However, median concentrations of hydroxynaphthalenes (OH-NAPs), hydroxyfluorenes (OH-FLUs) and hydroxyphenanthrenes (OH-PHEs) increased significantly from 5.2, 0.44 and 0.88 μg g-1 creatinine pre-burn to 12, 1.4 and 1.2 μg g-1 creatinine post-burn, respectively. This suggests that in compartment burns with high concentrations of PAHs in the smoke layer, such as those created by the particleboard fires, exposure to PAHs can be observed though urinary OH-PAH metabolites. Overall, concentrations of urinary OH-PAHs were relatively low considering the potential exposure in these burns. This suggests protective equipment in combination with rapid removal of firefighting ensembles and showering are relatively effective in controlling exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew P W Banks
- QAEHS, Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia.
| | - Phong Thai
- QAEHS, Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia
| | - Michelle Engelsman
- QAEHS, Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia; FRNSW, Fire and Rescue NSW, 1 Amarina Avenue, Greenacre, NSW, 2190, Australia
| | - Xianyu Wang
- QAEHS, Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia
| | - Andres F Osorio
- School of Civil Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jochen F Mueller
- QAEHS, Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia
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Engelsman M, Toms LML, Banks APW, Wang X, Mueller JF. Biomonitoring in firefighters for volatile organic compounds, semivolatile organic compounds, persistent organic pollutants, and metals: A systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 188:109562. [PMID: 32526498 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are exposed to a wide range of toxic chemicals due to combustion, with numerous biomonitoring studies completed that have assessed exposure. Many of these studies focus on individual classes of chemicals, with a few considering a broad range of systemic exposures. As yet, no review process has been undertaken to comprehensively examine these studies. The aims of this review are to: (1) ascertain whether biomonitoring studies pertaining to firefighters demonstrate occupational exposure to volatile organic compounds, semivolatile organic compounds, and metals; (2) determine and present results of biomonitoring studies; (3) provide any recommendations presented from the literature that may support exposure mitigation; and (4) suggest future study parameters that may assist in providing a greater understanding surrounding the occupational exposure of firefighters. A systematic review was undertaken with regards to firefighters and biomonitoring studies utilising the matrices of blood, urine, semen and breast milk. This yielded 5690 results. Following duplicate removal, inclusion and exclusion criteria screening and full text screening, 34 studies remained for review. Results of over 80% of studies analysed determined firefighters to experience occupational exposure. Results also show firefighters to be exposed to a wide range of toxic chemicals due to fire smoke; potentially exceeding the range of exposure of other occupations. As firefighters may face increased risk of health effects due to the additive, synergistic, and/or antagonistic effects of chemical exposure, all care must be taken to reduce exposure. This may be achieved by considering tactical decisions, increased personal hygiene, and thorough decontamination procedures. Future biomonitoring studies recognising and assessing the range of chemical exposure firefighters face would be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Engelsman
- Fire and Rescue NSW, 1 Amarina Avenue, Greenacre, NSW, 2190, Australia; QAEHS, Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia.
| | - Leisa-Maree L Toms
- School of Public Health and Social Work and Institute of Biomedical Health and Innovation, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Australia
| | - Andrew P W Banks
- QAEHS, Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia
| | - Xianyu Wang
- QAEHS, Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia
| | - Jochen F Mueller
- QAEHS, Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, Queensland, 4102, Australia
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Hadrup N, Zhernovkov V, Jacobsen NR, Voss C, Strunz M, Ansari M, Schiller HB, Halappanavar S, Poulsen SS, Kholodenko B, Stoeger T, Saber AT, Vogel U. Acute Phase Response as a Biological Mechanism-of-Action of (Nano)particle-Induced Cardiovascular Disease. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2020; 16:e1907476. [PMID: 32227434 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201907476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Inhaled nanoparticles constitute a potential health hazard due to their size-dependent lung deposition and large surface to mass ratio. Exposure to high levels contributes to the risk of developing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as of lung cancer. Particle-induced acute phase response may be an important mechanism of action of particle-induced cardiovascular disease. Here, the authors review new important scientific evidence showing causal relationships between inhalation of particle and nanomaterials, induction of acute phase response, and risk of cardiovascular disease. Particle-induced acute phase response provides a means for risk assessment of particle-induced cardiovascular disease and underscores cardiovascular disease as an occupational disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels Hadrup
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Vadim Zhernovkov
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | | | - Carola Voss
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC)/Institute of Lung Biology and Disease (ILBD), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Neuherberg, D-85764, Germany
| | - Maximilian Strunz
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC)/Institute of Lung Biology and Disease (ILBD), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Neuherberg, D-85764, Germany
| | - Meshal Ansari
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC)/Institute of Lung Biology and Disease (ILBD), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Neuherberg, D-85764, Germany
| | - Herbert B Schiller
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC)/Institute of Lung Biology and Disease (ILBD), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Neuherberg, D-85764, Germany
| | - Sabina Halappanavar
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Sarah S Poulsen
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Boris Kholodenko
- Systems Biology Ireland, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Tobias Stoeger
- Comprehensive Pneumology Center (CPC)/Institute of Lung Biology and Disease (ILBD), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Neuherberg, D-85764, Germany
| | - Anne Thoustrup Saber
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark
| | - Ulla Vogel
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, DK-2100, Denmark
- DTU Health, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
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Oliveira M, Costa S, Vaz J, Fernandes A, Slezakova K, Delerue-Matos C, Teixeira JP, Carmo Pereira M, Morais S. Firefighters exposure to fire emissions: Impact on levels of biomarkers of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and genotoxic/oxidative-effects. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 383:121179. [PMID: 31522064 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.121179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters represent one of the riskiest occupations, yet due to the logistic reasons, the respective exposure assessment is one of the most challenging. Thus, this work assessed the impact of firefighting activities on levels of urinary monohydroxyl-polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (OHPAHs; 1-hydroxynaphthalene, 1-hydroxyacenaphthene, 2-hydroxyfluorene, 1-hydroxyphenanthrene, 1-hydroxypyrene, 3-hydroxybenzo(a)pyrene) and genotoxic/oxidative-effect biomarkers (basal DNA and oxidative DNA damage) of firefighters from eight firehouses. Cardiac frequency, blood pressure and arterial oxygen saturation were also monitored. OHPAHs were determined by liquid-chromatography with fluorescence detection, while genotoxic/oxidative-effect biomarkers were assessed by the comet assay. Concentrations of total OHPAHs were up to 340% higher (p ≤ 0.05) in (non-smoking and smoking) exposed workers than in control subjects (non-smoking and non-exposed to combat activities); the highest increments were observed for 1-hydroxynaphthalene and 1-hydroxyacenaphthene (82-88% of ∑OHPAHs), and for 2-hydroxyfluorene (5-15%). Levels of biomarker for oxidative stress were increased in non-smoking exposed workers than in control group (316%; p ≤ 0.001); inconclusive results were found for DNA damage. Positive correlations were found between the cardiac frequency, ∑OHPAHs and the oxidative DNA damage of non-smoking (non-exposed and exposed) firefighters. Evidences were raised regarding the simultaneous use of these biomarkers for the surveillance of firefighters' health and to better estimate the potential short-term health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Oliveira
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal; LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Solange Costa
- National Institute of Health, Environmental Health Department, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Josiana Vaz
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Adília Fernandes
- Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Klara Slezakova
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal; LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Teixeira
- National Institute of Health, Environmental Health Department, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055, Porto, Portugal; EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas 135, 4050-600, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Carmo Pereira
- LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química, Faculdade de Engenharia, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida 431, 4249-015, Porto, Portugal.
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Hadrup N, Mielżyńska-Švach D, Kozłowska A, Campisi M, Pavanello S, Vogel U. Association between a urinary biomarker for exposure to PAH and blood level of the acute phase protein serum amyloid A in coke oven workers. Environ Health 2019; 18:81. [PMID: 31477116 PMCID: PMC6721239 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-019-0523-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coke oven workers are exposed to both free and particle bound PAH. Through this exposure, the workers may be at increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Systemic levels of acute phase response proteins have been linked to cardiovascular disease in epidemiological studies, suggesting it as a marker of these conditions. The aim of this study was to assess whether there was association between PAH exposure and the blood level of the acute phase inflammatory response marker serum amyloid A (SAA) in coke oven workers. METHODS A total of 87 male Polish coke oven workers from two different plants comprised the study population. Exposure was assessed by means of the individual post-shift urinary excretion of 1-hydroxypyrene, as internal dose of short-term PAH exposure, and by anti-benzo[a]pyrene diolepoxide (anti-B[a]PDE)-DNA), as a biomarker of long-term PAH exposure. Blood levels of acute phase proteins SAA and CRP were measured by immunoassay. C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were included to adjust for baseline levels of SAA. RESULTS Multiple linear regression showed that the major determinants of increased SAA levels were urinary 1-hydroxypyrene (beta = 0.56, p = 0.030) and serum CRP levels (beta = 7.08; p < 0.0001) whereas anti-B[a]PDE-DNA, the GSTM1 detoxifying genotype, diet, and smoking were not associated with SAA levels. CONCLUSIONS Urinary 1-hydroxypyrene as biomarker of short-term PAH exposure and serum levels of CRP were predictive of serum levels of SAA in coke oven workers. Our data suggest that exposure of coke oven workers to PAH can lead to increased systemic acute response and therefore potentially increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels Hadrup
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Danuta Mielżyńska-Švach
- Institute of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Health, Sosnowiec, Poland
- Witold Pilecki State School of Higher Education, Nursing Institute, Oświęcim, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kozłowska
- Witold Pilecki State School of Higher Education, Nursing Institute, Oświęcim, Poland
| | - Manuela Campisi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Sofia Pavanello
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Ulla Vogel
- National Research Centre for the Working Environment, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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Pei L, Zhao M, Xu J, Li A, Luo K, Li R, Yang M, Xu Q. Associations of ambient fine particulate matter and its constituents with serum complement C3 in a panel study of older adults in China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 252:1019-1025. [PMID: 31252098 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.05.096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have demonstrated association between the total mass of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposures and inflammation. There are few studies exploring the associations between PM2.5 constituents and the biomarkers of inflammation in older adults and the underlying biological mechanisms are not exact. In this study, we examined the associations between PM2.5 and its constituents (organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), total carbon (TC), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and complement three factor (C3), an important biomarker of inflammation in a repeated panel of 175 older adults in Beijing, China. We have constructed three different linear mixed effect models (single-pollutant model, constituent-PM2.5 joint model, and constituent-residual model) to evaluate the association of PM2.5 and its constituents and complement C3, controlling for concentration of high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), day of week, mean temperature, relative humidity, location and potential individual confounders. We found robust positive associations of OC, EC, TC, PAHs and PM2.5 mass concentration with complement C3 at different lag patterns. The cumulative effects of pollutants increased across average of 2-5 days. Individuals aged 65 and above, or with diabetes, or BMI ≥30, or with no-cardiopathy, or with hypertension also exhibited positive associations between PM2.5 and complement C3. The results revealed that short-term exposure to PM2.5 and its constituents could result in a significant increase in serum level of complement C3. These findings suggested a possible involvement of complement C3 in the effect of PM2.5 on inflammatory reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Pei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China; Center of Environmental and Health Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Meiduo Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China; Center of Environmental and Health Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China; Center of Environmental and Health Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Ang Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China; Center of Environmental and Health Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Kai Luo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China; Center of Environmental and Health Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Runkui Li
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; State Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Information System, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Mingan Yang
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, 92182, USA
| | - Qun Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China; Center of Environmental and Health Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China.
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Andersen MHG, Frederiksen M, Saber AT, Wils RS, Fonseca AS, Koponen IK, Johannesson S, Roursgaard M, Loft S, Møller P, Vogel U. Health effects of exposure to diesel exhaust in diesel-powered trains. Part Fibre Toxicol 2019; 16:21. [PMID: 31182122 PMCID: PMC6558821 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-019-0306-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Short-term controlled exposure to diesel exhaust (DE) in chamber studies have shown mixed results on lung and systemic effects. There is a paucity of studies on well-characterized real-life DE exposure in humans. In the present study, 29 healthy volunteers were exposed to DE while sitting as passengers in diesel-powered trains. Exposure in electric trains was used as control scenario. Each train scenario consisted of three consecutive days (6 h/day) ending with biomarker samplings. RESULTS Combustion-derived air pollutants were considerably higher in the passenger carriages of diesel trains compared with electric trains. The concentrations of black carbon and ultrafine particles were 8.5 μg/m3 and 1.2-1.8 × 105 particles/cm3 higher, respectively, in diesel as compared to electric trains. Net increases of NOx and NO2 concentrations were 317 μg/m3 and 36 μg/m3. Exposure to DE was associated with reduced lung function and increased levels of DNA strand breaks in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), whereas there were unaltered levels of oxidatively damaged DNA, soluble cell adhesion molecules, acute phase proteins in blood and urinary excretion of metabolites of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Also the microvascular function was unaltered. An increase in the low frequency of heart rate variability measures was observed, whereas time-domain measures were unaltered. CONCLUSION Exposure to DE inside diesel-powered trains for 3 days was associated with reduced lung function and systemic effects in terms of altered heart rate variability and increased levels of DNA strand breaks in PBMCs compared with electric trains. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.Gov ( NCT03104387 ). Registered on March 23rd 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Helena Guerra Andersen
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014, Copenhagen K, Denmark. .,The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkalle 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| | - Marie Frederiksen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkalle 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Anne Thoustrup Saber
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkalle 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Regitze Sølling Wils
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014, Copenhagen K, Denmark.,The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkalle 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Ana Sofia Fonseca
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkalle 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Ismo K Koponen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkalle 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Sandra Johannesson
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Martin Roursgaard
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014, Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Steffen Loft
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014, Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Peter Møller
- Department of Public Health, Section of Environmental Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5A, DK-1014, Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Ulla Vogel
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Lersø Parkalle 105, DK-2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.,DTU Health Tech., Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
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