1
|
Katzner TE, Pain DJ, McTee M, Brown L, Cuadros S, Pokras M, Slabe VA, Watson RT, Wiemeyer G, Bedrosian B, Hampton JO, Parish CN, Pay JM, Saito K, Schulz JH. Lead poisoning of raptors: state of the science and cross-discipline mitigation options for a global problem. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024. [PMID: 38693847 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Lead poisoning is an important global conservation problem for many species of wildlife, especially raptors. Despite the increasing number of individual studies and regional reviews of lead poisoning of raptors, it has been over a decade since this information has been compiled into a comprehensive global review. Here, we summarize the state of knowledge of lead poisoning of raptors, we review developments in manufacturing of non-lead ammunition, the use of which can reduce the most pervasive source of lead these birds encounter, and we compile data on voluntary and regulatory mitigation options and their associated sociological context. We support our literature review with case studies of mitigation actions, largely provided by the conservation practitioners who study or manage these efforts. Our review illustrates the growing awareness and understanding of lead exposure of raptors, and it shows that the science underpinning this understanding has expanded considerably in recent years. We also show that the political and social appetite for managing lead ammunition appears to vary substantially across administrative regions, countries, and continents. Improved understanding of the drivers of this variation could support more effective mitigation of lead exposure of wildlife. This review also shows that mitigation strategies are likely to be most effective when they are outcome driven, consider behavioural theory, local cultures, and environmental conditions, effectively monitor participation, compliance, and levels of raptor exposure, and support both environmental and human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Todd E Katzner
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 230 North Collins Road, Boise, ID, 83702, USA
| | - Deborah J Pain
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, Norfolk, NR4 7TJ, UK
- Zoology Department, University of Cambridge, Downing St, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK
| | - Michael McTee
- MPG Ranch, 19400 Lower Woodchuck Road, Florence, MT, 59833, USA
| | - Leland Brown
- Oregon Zoo, North American Non-lead Partnership, 4001 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR, 97221, USA
| | - Sandra Cuadros
- Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, 410 Summer Valley Rd, Orwigsburg, PA, 17961, USA
- Department of Biology, University of British Columbia, 1177 Research Road, Kelowna, British Columbia, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Mark Pokras
- Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, 200 Westboro Rd, North Grafton, MA, 01536, USA
| | - Vincent A Slabe
- Conservation Science Global, Bozeman, MT, USA
- The Peregrine Fund, 5668 West Flying Hawk Lane, Boise, ID, 83709, USA
| | - Richard T Watson
- The Peregrine Fund, 5668 West Flying Hawk Lane, Boise, ID, 83709, USA
| | - Guillermo Wiemeyer
- CONICET- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Pampa, Calle 5 esq. 116 MO L6360, Gral. Pico, La Pampa, Argentina
| | | | - Jordan O Hampton
- Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | | | - James M Pay
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Churchill Ave, Hobart, Tasmania, 7005, Australia
| | - Keisuke Saito
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan 2-2101 Hokuto, Kushiro, Hokkaido, 084-0922, Japan
| | - John H Schulz
- School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 1111 Rollins St, Columbia, MO, 65203, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Green RE, Taggart MA, Guiu M, Waller H, Pap S, Sheldon R, Pain DJ. Difference in concentration of lead (Pb) in meat from pheasants killed using lead and iron (Fe) shotgun ammunition. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 916:170356. [PMID: 38272095 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170356] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
The use of lead shotgun ammunition for hunting has been banned in a few jurisdictions and habitats, principally to protect wild birds from poisoning by ingestion of spent lead shot. The EU and UK REACH processes have recently considered bans on lead ammunition throughout the European Union and United Kingdom, including assessments of possible health benefits from reduced human dietary exposure to lead from game meat. Comparisons of the mean lead concentrations in meat from gamebirds killed using lead and non‑lead shotgun ammunition have not been published. We compared lead concentrations in meat from wild-shot pheasants from which lead shotgun pellets were recovered (n = 27) with those from which iron pellets were recovered (n = 20), having removed all pellets from the meat before analysis. The mean concentration of lead in meat from pheasants killed using lead shot was 2.10 mg/kg w.w., which is >20 times the European Union's maximum permitted level for the lead concentration in meat from domesticated animals. For pheasants killed using iron shot the mean was 0.07 mg/kg w.w., which is below the maximum permitted level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhys E Green
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, UK; RSPB Centre for Conservation Science, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL, UK.
| | - Mark A Taggart
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso KW14 7JD, UK
| | - Maider Guiu
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso KW14 7JD, UK
| | - Hayley Waller
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso KW14 7JD, UK
| | - Sabolc Pap
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso KW14 7JD, UK
| | - Rob Sheldon
- 78 Riverdene Road, Ilford, Essex IG1 2EA, UK
| | - Deborah J Pain
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, UK; School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Pain DJ, Green RE, Bates N, Guiu M, Taggart MA. Lead concentrations in commercial dogfood containing pheasant in the UK. AMBIO 2023; 52:1339-1349. [PMID: 37131044 PMCID: PMC10272007 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-023-01856-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
UK and EU regulators are evaluating the potential health benefits of restricting the use of lead ammunition. Little information is available on exposure of pets to ammunition-derived dietary lead from petfood containing meat from wild-shot game animals. We found dogfood including wild-shot pheasant meat to be widely available in the UK. 77% of samples from three raw pheasant dogfood products exceeded the EU maximum residue level (MRL) for lead in animal feed, with mean concentrations approximately 245, 135 and 49 times above the MRL. Concentrations > MRL were also found in a dried food containing pheasant, but not in a processed food, nor in chicken-based products. Lead concentrations in raw pheasant dogfood considerably exceeded those in pheasant meat sold for human consumption, possibly because the dogfood mincing process further fragmented lead particles from shot. Dogs frequently consuming such high-lead food risk adverse health effects; this should be considered within decision-making processes about regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J. Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ UK
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, NR4 7TJ UK
| | - Rhys E. Green
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ UK
- Centre for Conservation Science, RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy, SG19 2DL Bedfordshire UK
| | - Nicola Bates
- Veterinary Poisons Information Service, 2nd Floor, Godfree Court, 29–35 Long Lane, London, SE1 4PL UK
| | - Maider Guiu
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7AP UK
| | - Mark A. Taggart
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7AP UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Green R, Taggart M, Pain D, Smithson K. Implications for food safety of the size and location of fragments of lead shotgun pellets embedded in hunted carcasses of small game animals intended for human consumption. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268089. [PMID: 35994440 PMCID: PMC9394810 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Carcasses of common pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) killed by hunters using shotguns are widely used or sold in the United Kingdom and elsewhere for human consumption. Almost all of the birds are shot using shotgun pellets composed principally of lead (Pb). Lead shotgun pellets often fragment on impact within the bodies of gamebirds, leaving small lead particles in the meat that are difficult for consumers to detect and remove and from which a greater proportion of lead is likely to be absorbed. Chronic exposure to even low levels of lead is associated with negative health effects in humans and especially in groups particularly vulnerable to the effects of lead, which include young children and pregnant women. Our study used a high-resolution computerised tomography X-ray scanner to locate, in three dimensions, metal fragments embedded within carcasses of eight pheasants sold for human consumption in the UK. Small radio-dense fragments (<2 mm diameter), assumed to be metallic lead, were present in all of the pheasant carcasses examined (mean number: 39 per carcass) and many were too small (<0.1 mm diameter) and too distant from the nearest large shotgun pellet for it to be practical for consumers to detect and remove them without discarding a large proportion of otherwise usable meat. Consumers of carcasses of pheasants killed using lead shotgun ammunition are likely to be exposed to elevated levels of dietary lead, even if careful food preparation is practiced to remove shotgun pellets and the most damaged tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhys Green
- RSPB Centre for Conservation Science, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Mark Taggart
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Thurso, United Kingdom
| | - Deborah Pain
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Keturah Smithson
- Cambridge Biotomography Centre, Museum of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pain DJ, Green RE, Taggart MA, Kanstrup N. How contaminated with ammunition-derived lead is meat from European small game animals? Assessing and reducing risks to human health. AMBIO 2022; 51:1772-1785. [PMID: 35536507 PMCID: PMC9200912 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-022-01737-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Small game animals are generally hunted with lead gunshot which often fragments causing elevated lead concentrations in meat and presenting health risks to frequent consumers and vulnerable groups. We reviewed three decades of European data on lead concentrations in the meat of gamebirds, rabbits and hares across countries with various restrictions on lead gunshot use. Mean meat lead concentrations decreased to a low level in Denmark, the only country in the study with a total ban on lead gunshot use. In contrast, elsewhere in Europe meat lead concentrations increased over time, an unexplained and previously undescribed finding. The only regulatory restriction associated with a decrease in meat lead concentrations was the Danish total ban on lead gunshot use. We calculated an arithmetic mean lead concentration in small game meat of 5.205 ppm w.w. (2011-2021) from across Europe. EU and UK regulators are considering banning lead ammunition for all hunting to protect human and wildlife health. The mean value we found for small game meat (2011-2021) was fourteen times higher than that used in a recent EU-wide risk assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J. Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ UK
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, NR4 7TJ UK
| | - Rhys E. Green
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ UK
- Centre for Conservation Science, RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy, SG19 2DL Bedfordshire UK
| | - Mark A. Taggart
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7AP UK
| | - Niels Kanstrup
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, C.F. Møllers Allé 8, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hampton JO, Dunstan H, Toop SD, Flesch JS, Andreotti A, Pain DJ. Lead ammunition residues in a hunted Australian grassland bird, the stubble quail (Coturnix pectoralis): Implications for human and wildlife health. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267401. [PMID: 35446880 PMCID: PMC9022800 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Scavenging and predatory wildlife can ingest lead (Pb) from lead-based ammunition and become poisoned when feeding on shot game animals. Humans can similarly be exposed to ammunition-derived lead when consuming wild-shot game animals. Studies have assessed the degree of lead contamination in the carcasses of game animals but this scrutiny has not so far extended to Australia. Stubble quail (Coturnix pectoralis) are one of the only native non-waterfowl bird species that can be legally hunted in Australia, where it is commonly hunted with lead shot. The aim of this study was to characterize lead contamination in quail harvested with lead-based ammunition. The frequency, dimensions, and number of lead fragments embedded in carcasses were assessed through use of radiography (X-ray). From these data, the average quantity of lead available to scavenging wildlife was estimated along with potential risks to human consumers. We radiographed 37 stubble quail harvested by hunters using 12-gauge (2.75”) shotguns to fire shells containing 28 g (1 oz) of #9 (2 mm or 0.08” diameter) lead shot in western Victoria, Australia, in Autumn 2021. Radiographs revealed that 81% of carcasses contained embedded pellets and/or fragments with an average of 1.62 embedded pellets detected per bird. By excising and weighing a sample of 30 shotgun pellets (all had a mass of 0.75 grain or 48.6 mg), we calculated an average lead load of 78 mg/100 g of body mass. This was a conservative estimate, because fragments were not considered. This level of lead contamination was comparable to hunted bird species examined using similar methods in Europe. The quantity and characteristics of lead ammunition residues found suggest that predatory and scavenging wildlife and some groups of human consumers will be at risk of negative health impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan O. Hampton
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Heath Dunstan
- Game Management Authority, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simon D. Toop
- Game Management Authority, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Alessandro Andreotti
- Area Avifauna Migratrice, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Deborah J. Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sevillano-Morales JS, Sevillano-Caño J, Cámara-Martos F, Moreno-Ortega A, Amaro-López MA, Arenas-Casas A, Moreno-Rojas R. Risk Assessment of Cd, Cu, and Pb from the consumption of hunted meat: red-legged partridge and wild rabbit. Biol Trace Elem Res 2021; 199:1843-1854. [PMID: 32734532 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-020-02290-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to assess that potential health risk from Cd, Cu, and Pb, through the consumption of hunted red-legged partridge and wild rabbit meat, with special focus on the population of hunters and their relatives. Mineral content was analyzed by atomic absorption methods (F-AAS for Cu and GF-AAS for Cd and Pb) after microwave digestion of lyophilized samples. The average concentrations of these elements were 0.008 and 0.01 mg/kg for Cd; 1.41 and 1.63 mg/kg for Cu and 0.98 and 1.28 mg/kg for Pb in wild rabbit and red-legged partridge meat respectively. The dietary, risk assessment was performed by assuming two intake scenarios based on the obtained results of the survey on game meat consumption and the current maximum recommended intakes of Cd, Cu, and Pb, and then, the hazard quotients (THQ and TTHQ) were calculated. The data show that exposure to these metals from eating red-legged partridge and wild rabbit meat from a hunting provenance is relatively low and generally greater in the hunter population. The risk assessment revealed that moderate or low consumption of meat of these species does not offer a significant public health risk. Moreover, hazard quotients values for these metals of red-legged partridge and rabbit meat consumption in hunters and nonhunters are below 1. However, a high Pb content in the meat of these species and a high consumption may pose a greater health risk to hunters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Salvador Sevillano-Morales
- Departamento de Bromatología y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Edificio Charles Darwin C-1, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Jesús Sevillano-Caño
- Departamento de Bromatología y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Edificio Charles Darwin C-1, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Fernando Cámara-Martos
- Departamento de Bromatología y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Edificio Charles Darwin C-1, 14014, Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Alicia Moreno-Ortega
- Departamento de Bromatología y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Edificio Charles Darwin C-1, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Angel Amaro-López
- Departamento de Bromatología y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Edificio Charles Darwin C-1, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Antonio Arenas-Casas
- Departamento de Bromatología y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Edificio Charles Darwin C-1, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Rafael Moreno-Rojas
- Departamento de Bromatología y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Universidad de Córdoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, Edificio Charles Darwin C-1, 14014, Córdoba, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Marination increases the bioavailability of lead in game meat shot with lead ammunition. J Nutr Sci 2021; 10:e24. [PMID: 33996037 PMCID: PMC8080222 DOI: 10.1017/jns.2021.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
As a consequence of the toxicological lead characteristics, a reduction of its exposure should consider all sources. Game meat might contain elevated levels of lead due to the use of lead ammunition. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of acidic marination on the bioavailability of ammunition-derived lead in game meat (Roe deer), using the growing pig as an animal model. Furthermore, the study should provide evidence that the large-area scattering of lead particles leads to noticeable differences in the individual lead intake per game meat portion. Pigs of group A (n 7) received lead-shot game meat, which was cooked in water. Pigs of group B (n 7) received lead-shot game meat, which was first marinated (wine and vinegar) and then cooked. The lead content of both game meat preparations was equal with 0⋅77–0⋅79 mg Pb/portion. Pigs of group C (n 4) received lead-free game meat, which was also marinated and cooked. Additionally, lead acetate was administered intravenously to group D pigs (n 4). Blood samples were taken on elevated time points before and after game meat intake/i.v.-application. The acidic marination increased the bioavailability of orally ingested lead, resulting in significantly higher blood lead concentrations. The bioavailability of lead was 2⋅7 % when game meat was just cooked and 15 % when the meat was marinated before. The considerable variation of the individual blood lead concentrations suggests that an inhomogeneous distribution of ammunition-derived lead particles (in terms of size and number) causes individually non-comparable lead intakes from the consumption of game meat.
Collapse
|
9
|
(Ascorb)ing Pb Neurotoxicity in the Developing Brain. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9121311. [PMID: 33371438 PMCID: PMC7767447 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9121311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb) neurotoxicity is a major concern, particularly in children. Developmental exposure to Pb can alter neurodevelopmental trajectory and has permanent neuropathological consequences, including an increased vulnerability to further stressors. Ascorbic acid is among most researched antioxidant nutrients and has a special role in maintaining redox homeostasis in physiological and physio-pathological brain states. Furthermore, because of its capacity to chelate metal ions, ascorbic acid may particularly serve as a potent therapeutic agent in Pb poisoning. The present review first discusses the major consequences of Pb exposure in children and then proceeds to present evidence from human and animal studies for ascorbic acid as an efficient ameliorative supplemental nutrient in Pb poisoning, with a particular focus on developmental Pb neurotoxicity. In doing so, it is hoped that there is a revitalization for further research on understanding the brain functions of this essential, safe, and readily available vitamin in physiological states, as well to justify and establish it as an effective neuroprotective and modulatory factor in the pathologies of the nervous system, including developmental neuropathologies.
Collapse
|
10
|
Thomas VG, Pain DJ, Kanstrup N, Green RE. Setting maximum levels for lead in game meat in EC regulations: An adjunct to replacement of lead ammunition. AMBIO 2020; 49:2026-2037. [PMID: 32451970 PMCID: PMC7568734 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-020-01336-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Each year, hunters from 12 of the 27 European Union (EU) countries and the UK shoot over 6 million large game mammals, 12 million rabbits and hares and over 80 million birds. They support an international game meat market worth over 1.1 thousand million Euros. Animals shot with lead ammunition frequently contain lead fragments in the carcass which contaminate meals made from game meat with concentrations of lead substantially above the maximum allowable level (ML) set by European Commission Regulation EC1881/2006 for meat from domesticated animals. This poses a health risk to frequent consumers of wild-shot game meat, with children and pregnant women being particularly vulnerable. Total replacement of lead rifle and shotgun ammunition with available non-toxic alternatives is needed for all hunting in EU nations to prevent exposure of humans and wildlife to ammunition-derived lead and to allow the depletion of the long-term environmental legacy of lead from spent ammunition. We propose that EC1881/2006 is amended to incorporate an ML for game meats as a supplementary measure to the replacement of lead ammunition. This would harmonise food safety standards for lead in meats traded across and imported into the EU.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vernon G. Thomas
- Department of Integrative Biology, College of Biological Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1 Canada
| | - Deborah J. Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ UK
| | - Niels Kanstrup
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Grenåvej 14, Rønde, 8410 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rhys E. Green
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Green RE, Pain DJ. Risks to human health from ammunition-derived lead in Europe. AMBIO 2019; 48:954-968. [PMID: 31098877 PMCID: PMC6675757 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-019-01194-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
It has been known for centuries that lead is toxic to humans. Chronic exposure to lead, even at low levels, is associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease in adults and of impaired neurodevelopment and subsequent cognitive and behavioural development in the foetus and young children. Health agencies throughout the world have moved from assuming that there are tolerable levels of exposure to lead to a recognition that valid 'no-effect' thresholds cannot currently be defined. Formerly, the most important exposure pathways were occupational exposure, water from lead plumbing, paints, petrol additives and foods. Regulation of products and improved health and safety procedures at work have left dietary lead as the main remaining pathway of exposure in European countries. Ammunition-derived lead is now a significant cause of dietary lead exposure in groups of people who eat wild game meat frequently. These are mostly hunters, shoot employees and their families, but also some people who choose to eat game for ethical, health or other reasons, and their children. Extrapolation from surveys conducted in the UK and a review of studies of game consumption in other countries suggest that approximately 5 million people in the EU may be high-level consumers of lead-shot game meat and that tens of thousands of children in the EU may be consuming game contaminated with ammunition-derived lead frequently enough to cause significant effects on their cognitive development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rhys E. Green
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ UK
| | - Deborah J. Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pain DJ, Dickie I, Green RE, Kanstrup N, Cromie R. Wildlife, human and environmental costs of using lead ammunition: An economic review and analysis. AMBIO 2019; 48:969-988. [PMID: 30879269 PMCID: PMC6675822 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-019-01157-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
A proposed European Union (EU)-wide restriction on the use of lead gunshot for shooting in and over wetlands estimated that the societal benefits of a restriction outweighed costs, despite few identified benefits being quantified economically. A subsequent Annex XV Investigation Report on the evidence of impacts of lead ammunition in terrestrial environments concluded that additional measures to control its use are warranted, although to date this has not been further evaluated. To help inform this process, we review the literature and undertake new analyses to estimate the costs of continued use of lead ammunition associated with impacts on wildlife, people and the environment. We estimate minimum annual direct costs across the EU and Europe of c. €383 million-€960 million and €444 million-€1.3 thousand million respectively. The value that society places on being able to avoid these losses, estimated using a 'willingness to pay' approach, was c. €2.2 thousand million for wildfowl alone. Our estimated costs of the continued use of lead ammunition across the EU appear to be considerably greater than the likely costs of switching to non-toxic alternative ammunition types, although these have not been formally estimated in full.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J. Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ UK
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT UK
| | - Ian Dickie
- eftec - economics for the environment, 4 City Road, London, EC1Y 2AA UK
| | - Rhys E. Green
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QZ UK
| | - Niels Kanstrup
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Grenåvej 14, 8410 Rønde, Denmark
| | - Ruth Cromie
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sevillano Morales J, Moreno-Ortega A, Amaro Lopez MA, Arenas Casas A, Cámara-Martos F, Moreno-Rojas R. Game meat consumption by hunters and their relatives: a probabilistic approach. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2018; 35:1739-1748. [PMID: 29912678 DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2018.1488183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to estimate the consumption of meat and products derived from hunting by the consumer population and, specifically, by hunters and their relatives. For this purpose, a survey was conducted on the frequency of consuming meat from the four most representative game species in Spain, two of big game, wild boar (Sus scrofa) and red deer (Cervus elaphus), and two of small game, rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and red partridge (Alectoris rufa), as well as of processed meat products (salami-type sausage) made from those big game species. The survey was carried out on 337 habitual consumers of these types of products (hunters and their relatives). The total mean game meat consumption, per capita in this population group, is 6.87 kg/person/year of meat and 8.57 kg/person/year if the processed meat products are also considered. Consumption of rabbit, red partridge, red deer and wild boar, individually, was 1.85, 0.82, 2.28 and 1.92 kg/person/year, respectively. It was observed that hunters generally registered a larger intake of game meat, this being statistically significant in the case of rabbit meat consumption. Using probabilistic methods, the meat consumption frequency distributions for each hunting species studied were estimated, as well as the products made from big game species and the total consumption both of meat by itself and that including the products made from it. The consumption frequency distributions were adjusted to exponential ones, verified by the test suitable for it according to Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), the Chi-squared and Kolmogorov-Smirnov statistics. In addition, the consumption percentiles of the different distributions were obtained. The latter could be a good tool when making nutrition or contaminant studies since they permit the assessment of exposure to the compound in question.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Sevillano Morales
- a Departments of Bromatology and Food Technology and Animal Health of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Córdoba , Córdoba , Spain
| | - Alicia Moreno-Ortega
- a Departments of Bromatology and Food Technology and Animal Health of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Córdoba , Córdoba , Spain
| | - Manual Angel Amaro Lopez
- a Departments of Bromatology and Food Technology and Animal Health of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Córdoba , Córdoba , Spain
| | - Antonio Arenas Casas
- a Departments of Bromatology and Food Technology and Animal Health of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Córdoba , Córdoba , Spain
| | - Fernando Cámara-Martos
- a Departments of Bromatology and Food Technology and Animal Health of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Córdoba , Córdoba , Spain
| | - Rafael Moreno-Rojas
- a Departments of Bromatology and Food Technology and Animal Health of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Córdoba , Córdoba , Spain
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Liberda EN, Tsuji LJS, Martin ID, Ayotte P, Robinson E, Dewailly E, Nieboer E. Source identification of human exposure to lead in nine Cree Nations from Quebec, Canada (Eeyou Istchee territory). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 161:409-417. [PMID: 29197759 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
While policies to decrease lead in the environment have been implemented to reduce human exposure to various lead sources, the use of lead ammunition to harvest wild game may continue to contribute significantly to human blood lead levels (BLLs). As part of a multi-community environment-and-health study, BLLs representing all age groups were evaluated in the nine Cree Nations located in the James and Hudson Bay regions of Quebec, Canada. Personal, market food, traditional food and 24-h recall questionnaires were administered. Predictor variables were assessed for various exposure sources, including diet and hunting practices. Elevated BLLs were observed in association with increased hunting status, use of firearms and leaded ammunition, and consumption of traditional foods. Significant differences were observed between all communities, age groups and sexes. Recommendations include educational campaigns that promote switching to non-lead ammunition and, if lead ammunition continues to be used, careful removal from tissues of pellets, bullet fragments and ammunition paths.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric N Liberda
- School of Occupational and Public Health, Ryerson University, 350 Victoria St, Toronto, Ontario M5B 2K3, Canada.
| | - Leonard J S Tsuji
- Health Studies, and the Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ian D Martin
- Health Studies, and the Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Axe Santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Robinson
- Public Health Department of the James Bay Cree Territory, Quebec, Canada
| | - Eric Dewailly
- Axe Santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec - Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Evert Nieboer
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Butt UJ, Shah SAA, Ahmed T, Zahid S. Protective effects of Nigella sativa L. seed extract on lead induced neurotoxicity during development and early life in mouse models. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2018; 7:32-40. [PMID: 30090560 PMCID: PMC6060688 DOI: 10.1039/c7tx00201g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb), a ubiquitous heavy metal and a known neurotoxicant, produces adverse effects on the brain via increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and causes oxidative stress. In this study we examined the neuroprotective effects of the ethanolic extract of Nigella sativa L. seeds on Pb induced oxidative stress in the developing brain of mice. Mouse pups were exposed to low (0.1%) and high (0.2%) doses of Pb from the first day of pregnancy through their mothers (via drinking water) and lactation until post-natal day (PND) 21. The mRNA expression levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD1), peroxiredoxin (Prdx6), amyloid precursor protein (APP) common, APP695 and APP770 were examined in the cortex and hippocampus of the mouse brain excised on PND 21 by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. The free radical scavenging activity of ethanolic Nigella sativa L. extract was assessed by DPPH assay. The results showed that Pb exposure caused a significant decrease in the expression of SOD1, Prdx6 and APP695 and an increase in APP770 in both cortex and hippocampus in a dose dependent manner as compared to the control group. The expression of APP common remained unaltered. Histological assessment of the cortex and hippocampus demonstrated a decrease in the neuronal number and Nissl bodies. The administration of 250 and 500 mg kg-1 ethanolic Nigella sativa L. extract reversed the adverse effects by significantly increasing the expression of SOD1, Prdx6 and APP695 and decreasing the expression of APP770 in both the regions. These results strongly suggest that Nigella sativa L. supplementation greatly improves Pb-induced neurotoxicity in early life and provides neuroprotective and antioxidant potentials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Umer Javed Butt
- Neurobiology Research Laboratory , Department of Healthcare Biotechnology , Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences , National University of Sciences and Technology , Islamabad , Pakistan . ; ; Tel: +92-51-90856134
| | - Syed Adnan Ali Shah
- Faculty of Pharmacy , Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam Campus , 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam , Selangor D. E. , Malaysia
- Atta-ur-Rahman Institute for Natural Product Discovery (AuRIns) , Universiti Teknologi MARA Puncak Alam Campus , 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam , Selangor D. E. , Malaysia
| | - Touqeer Ahmed
- Neurobiology Research Laboratory , Department of Healthcare Biotechnology , Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences , National University of Sciences and Technology , Islamabad , Pakistan . ; ; Tel: +92-51-90856134
| | - Saadia Zahid
- Neurobiology Research Laboratory , Department of Healthcare Biotechnology , Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences , National University of Sciences and Technology , Islamabad , Pakistan . ; ; Tel: +92-51-90856134
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Santiago AA, Ibarra-Palos A, Cruz-Morales JA, Sierra JM, Abatal M, Alfonso I, Vargas J. Synthesis, characterization, and heavy metal adsorption properties of sulfonated aromatic polyamides. HIGH PERFORM POLYM 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/0954008317711233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arlette A Santiago
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Morelia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Ibarra-Palos
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Morelia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico
| | - Jorge A Cruz-Morales
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Materiales, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, Mexico
| | - Juan M Sierra
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma del Carmen, Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, Mexico
| | - Mohamed Abatal
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma del Carmen, Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, Mexico
| | - Ismeli Alfonso
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Materiales, Unidad Morelia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico
| | - Joel Vargas
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Materiales, Unidad Morelia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Fustinoni S, Sucato S, Consonni D, Mannucci PM, Moretto A. Blood lead levels following consumption of game meat in Italy. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 155:36-41. [PMID: 28189071 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to measure lead (Pb) levels in blood (Pb-blood) in consumers of game meat, taking into account other possible sources of lead exposure. A spot blood sample was obtained from 95 subjects, and a questionnaire was used to collect general information and data on game meat consumption, hunting, wine drinking and other possible sources of lead exposure. Pb-blood was measured by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Pb-blood was not influenced by age, sex, residence in an urban or rural area, consumption of game meat, tobacco smoking or hobbies associated with potential exposure to lead, and median Pb-blood was 1.7 (5th-95th percentile 1.0-5.3)µg/dL and 3.4 (0.9-6.1)µg/dL for game meat non-eaters and eater, respectively. A multiple linear regression analysis (containing the covariates sex, age, hunting, wine drinking, game meat consumption, tobacco smoking, shooting range, and occupational exposure) found an association with hunting (Pb-blood almost double in hunters) and wine drinking (40% higher in drinkers) but not with consumption of game meat or other parameters. Whether the higher Pb-blood level was due to inhalation of lead fumes while shooting with lead ammunition, to handling lead ammunition or both could not be ascertained.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Fustinoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e di Comunità, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via S. Barnaba 8, 20122 Milan, Italy; Epidemiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via S. Barnaba 8, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - Sabrina Sucato
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e di Comunità, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via S. Barnaba 8, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - Dario Consonni
- Epidemiology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via S. Barnaba 8, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - Pier Mannuccio Mannucci
- Angelo Bianchi Bonomi Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico and Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Francesco Sforza 35, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - Angelo Moretto
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche, Università degli Studi di Milano, and International Centre for Pesticides and Health Risks Protection (ICPS), ASST-Fatebenefratelli, "Luigi Sacco" Hospital, Via GB Grassi 74, 20157 Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Pineau A, Fauconneau B, Plouzeau E, Fernandez B, Quellard N, Levillain P, Guillard O. Ultrastructural study of liver and lead tissue concentrations in young mallard ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) after ingestion of single lead shot. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2017; 80:188-195. [PMID: 28277035 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2017.1279093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) represents a serious threat to wildlife and ecosystems. The aim of this study was to examine the subcellular effects of dietary Pb pellet ingestion on mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) livers. After ingestion of a single Pb shot (LS4 size class: 0.177 ± 0.03 g) in 41 mallard ducks (22 males and 19 females) versus 10 controls (5 males and 5 females), all 7-week old, a morphologic study was conducted by TEM (transmission electron microscopy) of liver at the subcellular level. The results in treated mallards showed at a magnification of 2500 X that hepatic parenchyma was altered as evidenced by intralysosomal electron-dense deposits, which are compatible with Pb deposits. Further, at a higher magnification (15,000 X) in both genders, deterioration of mitochondria was observed in which the crests and, to a lesser extent, outer membrane were lysed. While the rough endoplasmic reticulum was fragmented, intracytoplasmic electron-dense material compatible with Pb deposits was maximally visible, thereby underscoring the deeply destructive effect of this metal on the subcellular architecture of the liver. In addition, applying an optimized and validated method in a clean room using electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometer (ETAAS) with Zeeman background correction, the objective was to improve and refine certain indispensable measurements pertaining to Pb impregnation in tissues other than liver such as kidneys, bones, and feathers of mallards. Data demonstrated show that compared with controls, Pb accumulation increases significantly, not only in the liver (3-fold), but also in the bones and the feathers (14-fold). No significant difference was noted between males and females. Bearing in mind the marked subcellular toxicity attributed to Pb, this study reinforces present-day arguments advocating limitation of game consumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alain Pineau
- a Toxicology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy , University of Nantes , Nantes Cedex1 , France
| | | | - Eric Plouzeau
- c National Museum of Natural History , USM505 , Paris , France
| | - Béatrice Fernandez
- d Department of Pathology , University Hospital of Poitiers , Poitiers , France
| | - Nathalie Quellard
- d Department of Pathology , University Hospital of Poitiers , Poitiers , France
| | - Pierre Levillain
- d Department of Pathology , University Hospital of Poitiers , Poitiers , France
| | - Olivier Guillard
- e Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy , University of Poitiers , Poitiers , France
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Stokke S, Brainerd S, Arnemo JM. Metal deposition of copper and lead bullets in moose harvested in Fennoscandia. WILDLIFE SOC B 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/wsb.731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Stokke
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research; P.O. Box 8685 Sluppen NO-7485 Trondheim Norway
| | - Scott Brainerd
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game; Division of Wildlife Conservation; 1300 College Road Fairbanks AK 99701 USA
- Department of Ecology and Natural Resource Management; Norwegian University of Life Sciences; P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432 Ås Norway
| | - Jon M. Arnemo
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management; Hedmark University of Applied Sciences Campus Evenstad, NO-2480 Koppang Norway
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies; Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences; SE-90183 Umeå Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Vallverdú-Coll N, Mougeot F, Ortiz-Santaliestra ME, Castaño C, Santiago-Moreno J, Mateo R. Effects of Lead Exposure on Sperm Quality and Reproductive Success in an Avian Model. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:12484-12492. [PMID: 27753482 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b04231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) poisoning via ingestion of shot pellets is a frequent cause of death in wild birds and also has a wide range of subclinical effects. Here we report on the sublethal effects Pb exposure has on the breeding performance of red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa). We studied the effects of Pb exposure on sperm quality, reproductive success, egg properties, laying performance, antioxidant levels, and carotenoid-based coloration. Birds were exposed by oral gavage to one or three No. 6 Pb shot pellets (2.8 mm in diameter, mean mass ± SD: 109 ± 7.97 mg). We show that exposure to three pellets (330 mg) reduced the hatching rate of females and decreased the acrosome integrity and sperm motility of males. In addition, females exposed to 1 pellet (110 mg) produced heavier eggs and chicks, whereas males exposed to 1 pellet presented an increase in sperm vigor. Sperm viability, concentration, progressiveness or fecundation rate were not affected by Pb treatment. Pb exposure increased circulating antioxidant levels in males, whereas the percentage of carotenoid-pigmented eye-ring area decreased in exposed females. Several sperm parameters showed positive relationships with coloration and antioxidant levels, suggesting that males displaying redder ornaments may be more capable of protecting sperm from oxidative stress in the event of sublethal Pb exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Núria Vallverdú-Coll
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC) CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - François Mougeot
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC) CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Manuel E Ortiz-Santaliestra
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC) CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Cristina Castaño
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria. Dpto. Reproducción Animal, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Julián Santiago-Moreno
- Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria. Dpto. Reproducción Animal, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC) CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ferreira C, Ribeiro J, Almada S, Rotariu T, Freire F. Reducing impacts from ammunitions: A comparative life-cycle assessment of four types of 9mm ammunitions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 566-567:34-40. [PMID: 27213668 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 04/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Increase of environmental awareness of the population has pressured research activities in the defence area to cover environment and toxicity issues, where have been considered appropriate manners to reduce the environmental and toxicological impacts of ammunition. One of the adopted approaches to achieve such goal involves the replacement of lead and other heavy metals by alternative materials. However, the consequences of using alternative materials in ammunitions manufacturing are uncertain for the other life-cycle phases and trade-offs can occur. The present paper describes the potential benefits from the replacement of lead in the primer and in the projectile of a 9mm calibre ammunition. For that purpose, it is assessed and compared the environmental and toxicological impacts associated with the life-cycle of four ammunitions: combination of two types of projectiles (steel jacket and lead core; copper and nylon composite) with two types of primers (lead primer; non-lead primer). In addition, some potential improvements for the environmental performance of small calibre ammunition are also presented. To assess the impacts two Life-Cycle Impact Assessment methods are applied: CML for six environmental categories and USEtox to three toxicity categories. Results showed that the conclusion drawn for environmental and toxicological impact categories are distinct. In fact, ammunition production phase presents higher impacts for the environmental categories, whilst the operation phase has a higher impact to the toxicity categories. The substitution of lead in the primer and in the projectile provides a suitable alternative from a toxicology perspective; however, the composite projectile still presents some environmental concerns. The conclusions drawn are important for the procurement (and design) of environmental responsible ammunitions, in order to avoid (or decrease) the impacts for their manufacture and the effects on human health (e.g. shooters) and ecosystems near shooting ranges or hunting areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Ferreira
- ADAI-LAETA, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - José Ribeiro
- ADAI-LAETA, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Sara Almada
- CINAV - Laboratório Explosivos Marinha, Base Naval de Lisboa - Alfeite, Portugal.
| | - Traian Rotariu
- Military Technical Academy, Romanian Ministry of National Defence, Romania.
| | - Fausto Freire
- ADAI-LAETA, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Fayiga AO, Saha UK. Soil pollution at outdoor shooting ranges: Health effects, bioavailability and best management practices. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 216:135-145. [PMID: 27254770 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.05.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2015] [Revised: 04/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The total lead (Pb) concentrations of the surface soil, sub surface soil, vegetation and surface waters of outdoor shooting ranges are extremely high and above regulatory limits. Lead is dangerous at high concentrations and can cause a variety of serious health problems. Shooters and range workers are exposed to lead dust and can even take Pb dust home to their families while some animals around the shooting range can ingest the Pb bullets. The toxicity of Pb depends on its bioavailability which has been determined to be influenced greatly by the geochemical properties of each site. The bioavailability of Pb in shooting ranges has been found to be higher than other metal contaminated soils probably because of its very low residual Pb (<1%). Despite being an immobile element in the soil, migration of Pb within shooting ranges and offsite has been reported in literature. Best management practices to reduce mobility of Pb in shooting ranges involve an integrated Pb management program which has been described in the paper. The adoption of the non-toxic "green bullet" which has been developed to replace Pb bullets may reduce or prevent environmental pollution at shooting ranges. However, the contaminated soil resulting from decades of operation of several shooting ranges still needs to be restored to its natural state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A O Fayiga
- The University of Georgia, 2300 College Station Road, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
| | - U K Saha
- The University of Georgia, 2300 College Station Road, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Andreotti A, Borghesi F, Aradis A. Lead ammunition residues in the meat of hunted woodcock: a potential health risk to consumers. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2016.1142360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
24
|
Newth JL, Rees EC, Cromie RL, McDonald RA, Bearhop S, Pain DJ, Norton GJ, Deacon C, Hilton GM. Widespread exposure to lead affects the body condition of free-living whooper swans Cygnus cygnus wintering in Britain. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 209:60-7. [PMID: 26629647 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2015.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Revised: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Lead poisoning, through the ingestion of spent lead gunshot, is an established cause of morbidity and mortality in waterbirds globally, but the thresholds at which blood levels begin to affect the physiology of birds in the wild are less well known. Here we determine the prevalence of lead exposure in whooper swans and, for the first time, identify the level of blood lead associated with initial reductions in body condition. Blood lead elevated above background levels (i.e. >20 μg dL(-1)) was found in 41.7% (125/300) of swans tested. Blood lead was significantly negatively associated with winter body condition when levels were ≥44 μg dL(-1) (27/260 = 10%). Our findings indicating that sub-lethal impacts of lead on body condition occur at the lower end of previously established clinical thresholds and that a relatively high proportion of individuals in this population may be affected, reaffirm the importance of reducing contamination of the environment with lead shot.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J L Newth
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, UK; Centre for Ecology and Conservation, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, TR10 9EZ, UK.
| | - E C Rees
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, UK
| | - R L Cromie
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, UK
| | - R A McDonald
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, TR10 9EZ, UK
| | - S Bearhop
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, TR10 9EZ, UK
| | - D J Pain
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, UK
| | - G J Norton
- Institute of Biological Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK
| | - C Deacon
- Institute of Biological Environmental Sciences, University of Aberdeen, AB24 2TZ, UK
| | - G M Hilton
- Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Tagne-Fotso R, Leroyer A, Howsam M, Dehon B, Richeval C, Nisse C. Current sources of lead exposure and their relative contributions to the blood lead levels in the general adult population of Northern France: The IMEPOGE Study, 2008-2010. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2016; 79:245-265. [PMID: 27074096 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1149131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
There is justification for limiting lead (Pb) exposure as much as possible, given its impact on health at low concentrations. Consequently, the aim of this study was to measure blood lead levels (BLL) and examine exposure factors related to BLL variations in the general adult population of northern France, a current and past industrial area. Two thousand inhabitants of northern France, aged between 20 and 59 years, were recruited using the quota method with caution. Blood lead levels were quantified by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS), and variation factors were studied separately in men and women using multivariate stepwise linear and logistic regression models. The geometric mean of the BLL was 18.8 μg/L (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18.3-19.3). Occupational factors affected BLL only in men and represented 14% of total explained variance of BLL. External occupational factors significantly increasing mean levels of BLL were tobacco, consumption of some beverages (wine, coffee, tea, and/or tap water), raw vegetables, housing characteristics (built prior to 1948, Pb piping in the home) and do-it-yourself or leisure activities (paint stripping or rifle shooting). Consumption habits accounted together for 25% and 18% of the total explained variance, respectively, in men and women. Industrial environment did not significantly contribute to BLL variations. Blood lead levels observed in the general population of this industrial part of France did not appear to be excessively elevated compared to values found internationally. Nonetheless, these BLL remain a public health issue in regard to nonthreshold toxicity attributed to Pb.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romuald Tagne-Fotso
- a Univ. Lille, EA 4483 -IMPECS-IMPact de l'Environnement Chimique sur la Santé humaine , Département Universitaire de Médecine et Santé au Travail , Lille , France
| | - Ariane Leroyer
- a Univ. Lille, EA 4483 -IMPECS-IMPact de l'Environnement Chimique sur la Santé humaine , Département Universitaire de Médecine et Santé au Travail , Lille , France
- b CHU Lille, Pôle de Santé Publique , Lille , France
| | - Mike Howsam
- c Univ. Lille, Centre Universitaire de Mesures et d'Analyses , Lille , France
| | - Betty Dehon
- d CHU Lille , Laboratoire de Toxicologie et Génopathies , Lille , France
| | - Camille Richeval
- d CHU Lille , Laboratoire de Toxicologie et Génopathies , Lille , France
| | - Catherine Nisse
- a Univ. Lille, EA 4483 -IMPECS-IMPact de l'Environnement Chimique sur la Santé humaine , Département Universitaire de Médecine et Santé au Travail , Lille , France
- b CHU Lille, Pôle de Santé Publique , Lille , France
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Poppenga RH, Redig PT, Sikarskie JG. Are there legitimate reasons to retain lead ammunition and fishing gear? J Am Vet Med Assoc 2014; 245:1218-20. [PMID: 25406699 DOI: 10.2460/javma.245.11.1218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert H Poppenga
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA 95616
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Gremse F, Krone O, Thamm M, Kiessling F, Tolba RH, Rieger S, Gremse C. Performance of lead-free versus lead-based hunting ammunition in ballistic soap. PLoS One 2014; 9:e102015. [PMID: 25029572 PMCID: PMC4100882 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0102015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lead-free hunting bullets are an alternative to lead-containing bullets which cause health risks for humans and endangered scavenging raptors through lead ingestion. However, doubts concerning the effectiveness of lead-free hunting bullets hinder the wide-spread acceptance in the hunting and wildlife management community. Methods We performed terminal ballistic experiments under standardized conditions with ballistic soap as surrogate for game animal tissue to characterize dimensionally stable, partially fragmenting, and deforming lead-free bullets and one commonly used lead-containing bullet. The permanent cavities created in soap blocks are used as a measure for the potential wound damage. The soap blocks were imaged using computed tomography to assess the volume and shape of the cavity and the number of fragments. Shots were performed at different impact speeds, covering a realistic shooting range. Using 3D image segmentation, cavity volume, metal fragment count, deflection angle, and depth of maximum damage were determined. Shots were repeated to investigate the reproducibility of ballistic soap experiments. Results All bullets showed an increasing cavity volume with increasing deposited energy. The dimensionally stable and fragmenting lead-free bullets achieved a constant conversion ratio while the deforming copper and lead-containing bullets showed a ratio, which increases linearly with the total deposited energy. The lead-containing bullet created hundreds of fragments and significantly more fragments than the lead-free bullets. The deflection angle was significantly higher for the dimensionally stable bullet due to its tumbling behavior and was similarly low for the other bullets. The deforming bullets achieved higher reproducibility than the fragmenting and dimensionally stable bullets. Conclusion The deforming lead-free bullet closely resembled the deforming lead-containing bullet in terms of energy conversion, deflection angle, cavity shape, and reproducibility, showing that similar terminal ballistic behavior can be achieved. Furthermore, the volumetric image processing allowed superior analysis compared to methods that involve cutting of the soap blocks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felix Gremse
- Experimental Molecular Imaging, University Hospital, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Oliver Krone
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mirko Thamm
- Experimental Molecular Imaging, University Hospital, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Fabian Kiessling
- Experimental Molecular Imaging, University Hospital, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - René Hany Tolba
- Laboratory Animal Science, University Hospital, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Siegfried Rieger
- Wildlife Biology, Management and Hunting Practice, HNE Eberswalde, Eberswalde, Germany
| | - Carl Gremse
- Wildlife Biology, Management and Hunting Practice, HNE Eberswalde, Eberswalde, Germany
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gómez-Ramírez P, Shore RF, van den Brink NW, van Hattum B, Bustnes JO, Duke G, Fritsch C, García-Fernández AJ, Helander BO, Jaspers V, Krone O, Martínez-López E, Mateo R, Movalli P, Sonne C. An overview of existing raptor contaminant monitoring activities in Europe. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2014; 67:12-21. [PMID: 24632328 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2014.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Biomonitoring using raptors as sentinels can provide early warning of the potential impacts of contaminants on humans and the environment and also a means of tracking the success of associated mitigation measures. Examples include detection of heavy metal-induced immune system impairment, PCB-induced altered reproductive impacts, and toxicity associated with lead in shot game. Authorisation of such releases and implementation of mitigation is now increasingly delivered through EU-wide directives but there is little established pan-European monitoring to quantify outcomes. We investigated the potential for EU-wide coordinated contaminant monitoring using raptors as sentinels. We did this using a questionnaire to ascertain the current scale of national activity across 44 European countries. According to this survey, there have been 52 different contaminant monitoring schemes with raptors over the last 50years. There were active schemes in 15 (predominantly western European) countries and 23 schemes have been running for >20years; most monitoring was conducted for >5years. Legacy persistent organic compounds (specifically organochlorine insecticides and PCBs), and metals/metalloids were monitored in most of the 15 countries. Fungicides, flame retardants and anticoagulant rodenticides were also relatively frequently monitored (each in at least 6 countries). Common buzzard (Buteo buteo), common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), white-tailed sea eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla), peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), tawny owl (Strix aluco) and barn owl (Tyto alba) were most commonly monitored (each in 6-10 countries). Feathers and eggs were most widely analysed although many schemes also analysed body tissues. Our study reveals an existing capability across multiple European countries for contaminant monitoring using raptors. However, coordination between existing schemes and expansion of monitoring into Eastern Europe is needed. This would enable assessment of the appropriateness of the EU-regulation of substances that are hazardous to humans and the environment, the effectiveness of EU level mitigation policies, and identify pan-European spatial and temporal trends in current and emerging contaminants of concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Gómez-Ramírez
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
| | - R F Shore
- NERC, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK
| | - N W van den Brink
- Alterra, Wageningen UR, Box 47, NL-6700AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - B van Hattum
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J O Bustnes
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, FRAM-High North Research Centre on Climate and the Environment, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway
| | - G Duke
- Environmental Change Institute, Oxford University Centre for the Environment, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QY, UK
| | - C Fritsch
- Chrono-Environnement, UMR 6249, University of Franche-Comté -, CNRS, Usc INRA, Place Leclerc, F-25030 Besançon Cedex, France
| | - A J García-Fernández
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - B O Helander
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, Department of Contaminant Environmental Research & Monitoring, Box 50007, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - V Jaspers
- Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium; NTNU, Realfagbygget, DU2-169, Høgskoleringen 5, Trondheim 7491, Norway
| | - O Krone
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Strasse 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - E Martínez-López
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus de Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - R Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC), CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo s/n, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - P Movalli
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C Sonne
- Arctic Environment, Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Taylor CM, Golding J, Emond AM. Intake of game birds in the UK: assessment of the contribution to the dietary intake of lead by women of childbearing age and children. Public Health Nutr 2014; 17:1125-9. [PMID: 23531459 PMCID: PMC10282466 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980013000748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Revised: 02/11/2013] [Accepted: 02/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Concern has recently been expressed about Pb levels in Pb-shot game meat. Our aim was to determine the consumption of game birds in a representative sample population in the UK, and in children and women of childbearing age in particular. DESIGN Population-based cross-sectional cohort study. Data from 4 d diet diaries from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS; 2008-2010) were extracted to analyse data on game bird consumption in the sample population, in women of childbearing age (15-45 years old) and in children ≤6 years old. SETTING Home-based study in representative areas of the UK. SUBJECTS Participants in the NDNS (2008-2010; n 2126, age 1·5 to >65 years). RESULTS Fifty-eight participants (2·7 %) reported eating game birds. The mean intake was 19·5 (sd 18·1) g/d (median 15·6, range 1·3-92·9 g/d). In women of childbearing age (15-45 years), 11/383 (2·9 %) reported eating game birds, with a mean intake of 22·4 (sd 25·8) g/d (median 15·6, range 2·0-92·9 g/d). In children aged ≤6 years old, 3/342 (0·9 %) were reported as eating game birds, with a mean intake of 6·8 (sd 9·7) g/d (median 2·4, range 1·3-23·2 g/d). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of consumption of game birds by women of childbearing age and children ≤6 years old was relatively low and intakes were small. However, any exposure to Pb in these two groups is undesirable. As are uncertainties about the ability of the diet diary method to capture the consumption of food items that are infrequently consumed, alternative methods of capturing these data should be used in future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Taylor
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Jean Golding
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
| | - Alan M Emond
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Health, School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Oakfield House, Oakfield Grove, Bristol BS8 2BN, UK
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Mateo R, Vallverdú-Coll N, López-Antia A, Taggart MA, Martínez-Haro M, Guitart R, Ortiz-Santaliestra ME. Reducing Pb poisoning in birds and Pb exposure in game meat consumers: the dual benefit of effective Pb shot regulation. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2014; 63:163-8. [PMID: 24309467 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2013.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2013] [Revised: 11/05/2013] [Accepted: 11/06/2013] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The use of lead (Pb) ammunition in the form of shot pellets has been identified as a Pb exposure risk in wildlife and their human consumers. We explore the hypothesis that Pb shot ban enforcement reduces the risk of avian Pb poisoning as well as Pb exposure in game meat consumers. We assessed compliance with a partial ban on Pb shot commencing in 2003 by examination of 937 waterbirds harvested by hunters between 2007 and 2012 in the Ebro delta (Spain). Prevalence of Pb shot ingestion was determined, as were Pb concentrations in liver and muscle tissue to evaluate the potential for Pb exposure in game meat consumers. Hunted birds with only embedded Pb shot (no steel) declined from 26.9% in 2007-08 to <2% over the following three hunting seasons after ban reinforcement. Pb shot ingestion in mallards decreased from a pre-ban value of 30.2% to 15.5% in the post-ban period. Liver Pb levels were predominantly defined by the presence of ingested shot, whereas muscle levels were defined by the presence of both ingested and embedded shot. Only 2.5% of mallard muscle tissue had Pb levels above European Union regulations for meat (0.1μg/g wet weight) in the 2008-09 season, when Pb shot ingestion prevalence was also at a minimum (5.1%). Effective restrictions in Pb ammunition use have a dual benefit since this reduces Pb exposure for game meat consumers due to embedded ammunition as well as reducing Pb poisoning in waterbirds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo s/n, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain.
| | - Núria Vallverdú-Coll
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo s/n, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Ana López-Antia
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo s/n, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Mark A Taggart
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo s/n, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain; Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle St, Thurso, Caithness, Scotland KW14 7JD, UK
| | - Monica Martínez-Haro
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo s/n, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain; IMAR - Instituto do Mar, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3004-517 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Raimon Guitart
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Manuel E Ortiz-Santaliestra
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), Ronda de Toledo s/n, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| |
Collapse
|