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Silva LRCD, Diógenes SDS, Meneses MN, Arjona FBS, Arruda CAM, Teixeira ACDA, Pessoa VM, Carneiro FF. Popular Health, Environmental and Occupational Surveillance: an integrative literature review. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2023; 28:2565-2582. [PMID: 37672447 DOI: 10.1590/1413-81232023289.13142022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective is to identify concepts, experiences, methods, and techniques in Popular Health, Environmental and Occupational Surveillance (VPSAT). This is an integrative review that used the descriptors: Community Participation, Public Health Surveillance, Environmental Health, and Occupational Health, using five databases: Virtual Health Library, EBSCOhost, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science. The review selected 15 studies, based on the inclusion criteria: surveillance experiences with community protagonism; and exclusion criteria: research without primary data and developed only by the health service. The theoretical and methodological bases of the studies were identified as citizen science, popular education, and environmental justice; experiences such as participatory mapping and monitoring; methods such as action research, 'do-it-yourself', and community-based research; and techniques such as "Photovoice" and Community Journal. Low-income urban communities, indigenous peoples, young individuals, and workers stand out as the protagonists. The recognition of the VPSAT as an important source of data and intervention by public health systems and academia contributes to making health surveillance more dialogic and effective.
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Caballero J, Jacobs RJ, Ownby RL. Development of a computerized intervention to improve health literacy in older Hispanics with type 2 diabetes using a pharmacist supervised comprehensive medication management. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263264. [PMID: 35139107 PMCID: PMC8827421 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective
The primary objective was to develop a computerized culturally adapted health literacy intervention for older Hispanics with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Secondary objectives were to assess the usability and acceptability of the intervention by older Hispanics with T2D and clinical pharmacists providing comprehensive medication management (CMM).
Materials and methods
The study occurred in three phases. During phase I, an integration approach (i.e., quantitative assessments, qualitative interviews) was used to develop the intervention and ensure cultural suitability. In phase II, the intervention was translated to Spanish and modified based on data obtained in phase I. During phase III, the intervention was tested for usability/acceptability.
Results
Thirty participants (25 older Hispanics with T2D, 5 clinical pharmacists) were included in the study. Five major themes emerged from qualitative interviews and were included in the intervention: 1) financial considerations, 2) polypharmacy, 3) social/family support, 4) access to medication/information, and 5) loneliness/sadness. Participants felt the computerized intervention developed was easy to use, culturally appropriate, and relevant to their needs. Pharmacists agreed the computerized intervention streamlined patient counseling, offered a tailored approach when conducting CMM, and could save them time.
Conclusion
The ability to offer individualized patient counseling based on information gathered from the computerized intervention allows for precision counseling. Future studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of the developed computerized intervention on adherence and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Caballero
- Department of Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Robin J. Jacobs
- Departments of Health Informatics, Nutrition, Medical Education & Research, Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States of America
| | - Raymond L. Ownby
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States of America
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Calloway EE, Chiappone AL, Schmitt HJ, Sullivan D, Gerhardstein B, Tucker PG, Rayman J, Yaroch AL. Exploring Community Psychosocial Stress Related to Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Contamination: Lessons Learned from a Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E8706. [PMID: 33255157 PMCID: PMC7727701 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17238706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to qualitatively explore the per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure experience and associated stressors, to inform public health efforts to support psychosocial health and resilience in affected communities. Semi-structured interviews (n = 9) were conducted from July-September 2019 with community members and state public health department representatives from areas with PFAS-contaminated drinking water. Thematic analysis was completed and themes were described and summarized. Reported stressors included health concerns and uncertainty, institutional delegitimization and associated distrust, and financial burdens. Interviewees provided several strategies to reduce stress and promote stress coping capacity and resilience, including showing empathy and validating the normalcy of experiencing stress; building trust through visible action and sustained community engagement; providing information and actionable guidance; discussing stress carefully; fostering stress coping capacity and resilience with opportunities to build social capital and restore agency; and building capacity among government agencies and health care providers to address psychosocial stress. While communities affected by PFAS contamination will face unavoidable stressors, positive interactions with government responders and health care providers may help reduce negative stress. More research on how best to integrate community psychosocial health and stress coping and resilience concepts into the public health response to environmental contamination could be helpful in addressing these stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric E. Calloway
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, NE 68114, USA; (A.L.C.); (A.L.Y.)
| | - Alethea L. Chiappone
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, NE 68114, USA; (A.L.C.); (A.L.Y.)
- College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Harrison J. Schmitt
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (H.J.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Daniel Sullivan
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (H.J.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Ben Gerhardstein
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA; (B.G.); (P.G.T.); (J.R.)
| | - Pamela G. Tucker
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA; (B.G.); (P.G.T.); (J.R.)
| | - Jamie Rayman
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA; (B.G.); (P.G.T.); (J.R.)
| | - Amy L. Yaroch
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, NE 68114, USA; (A.L.C.); (A.L.Y.)
- College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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Quigley D, Levine A, Sonnenfeld DA, Brown P, Tian Q, Wei X. Survey on Using Ethical Principles in Environmental Field Research with Place-Based Communities. SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ETHICS 2019; 25:477-517. [PMID: 29299754 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-017-9981-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Researchers of the Northeast Ethics Education Partnership (NEEP) at Brown University sought to improve an understanding of the ethical challenges of field researchers with place-based communities in environmental studies/sciences and environmental health by disseminating a questionnaire which requested information about their ethical approaches to these researched communities. NEEP faculty sought to gain actual field guidance to improve research ethics and cultural competence training for graduate students and faculty in environmental sciences/studies. Some aspects of the ethical challenges in field studies are not well-covered in the literature. More training and information resources are needed on the bioethical challenges in environmental field research relating to maximizing benefits/reducing risks to local inhabitants and ecosystems from research; appropriate and effective group consent and individual consent processes for many diverse communities in the United States and abroad; and justice considerations of ensuring fair benefits and protections against exploitation through community-based approaches, and cultural appropriateness and competence in researcher relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianne Quigley
- Science and Technology Studies, Brown University, PO Box 1886, 150 Power St, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
| | - Alana Levine
- Science and Technology Studies, Brown University, PO Box 1886, 150 Power St, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - David A Sonnenfeld
- State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF), 1 Forestry Dr., Syracuse, NY, 13210-2787, USA
| | - Phil Brown
- Social Science Environmental Health Research Institute, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, 318INV, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Qing Tian
- Science and Technology Studies, PO Box 1886, 150 Power St, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Xiaofan Wei
- Science and Technology Studies, PO Box 1886, 150 Power St, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
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Clements AL, Griswold WG, Rs A, Johnston JE, Herting MM, Thorson J, Collier-Oxandale A, Hannigan M. Low-Cost Air Quality Monitoring Tools: From Research to Practice (A Workshop Summary). SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2017; 17:E2478. [PMID: 29143775 PMCID: PMC5713187 DOI: 10.3390/s17112478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
In May 2017, a two-day workshop was held in Los Angeles (California, U.S.A.) to gather practitioners who work with low-cost sensors used to make air quality measurements. The community of practice included individuals from academia, industry, non-profit groups, community-based organizations, and regulatory agencies. The group gathered to share knowledge developed from a variety of pilot projects in hopes of advancing the collective knowledge about how best to use low-cost air quality sensors. Panel discussion topics included: (1) best practices for deployment and calibration of low-cost sensor systems, (2) data standardization efforts and database design, (3) advances in sensor calibration, data management, and data analysis and visualization, and (4) lessons learned from research/community partnerships to encourage purposeful use of sensors and create change/action. Panel discussions summarized knowledge advances and project successes while also highlighting the questions, unresolved issues, and technological limitations that still remain within the low-cost air quality sensor arena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L Clements
- Office of Research and Development, Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA.
| | - William G Griswold
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Abhijit Rs
- Office of Chief Scientist, Environmental Defense Fund, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA.
| | - Jill E Johnston
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - Megan M Herting
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - Jacob Thorson
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
| | - Ashley Collier-Oxandale
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
| | - Michael Hannigan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
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Jacobs RJ, Ownby RL, Acevedo A, Waldrop-Valverde D. A qualitative study examining health literacy and chronic illness self-management in Hispanic and non-Hispanic older adults. J Multidiscip Healthc 2017; 10:167-177. [PMID: 28461754 PMCID: PMC5404800 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s135370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic illness and low levels of health literacy affect health outcomes for many individuals, particularly older adults and racial/ethnic minorities. This study sought to understand the knowledge, strengths, and areas of need regarding self-management of chronic illness in order to lay the groundwork for content development of an intervention to increase health literacy and maximize patient engagement in chronic disease self-care. PATIENTS AND METHODS In-depth, qualitative interviews were conducted in Spanish and English with 25 older adults with various chronic illnesses. Topics included knowledge and understanding of chronic conditions, medications, and disease self-management skills. Qualitative data were coded by searching text and conducting cross-case analysis. An inductive analysis was then employed to allow for the patterns and themes to emerge. RESULTS Emerged themes included 1) social support, 2) coping strategies, 3) spirituality, 4) chronic disease health literacy, 5) anger, and 6) depression. While participants had a general overall knowledge of chronic illness, they had deficits in knowledge regarding their own illnesses and medications. CONCLUSION Chronic illness self-management is a complex and dynamic behavioral process. This study identified themes that leverage patient motivation to engage in self-care in a personalized manner. This information will guide the development of an intervention to promote health literacy and optimal disease self-management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin J Jacobs
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | | | - Amarilis Acevedo
- College of Psychology, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL
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Saint-Jacques N, Lee JSW, Brown P, Stafford J, Parker L, Dummer TJB. Small-area spatio-temporal analyses of bladder and kidney cancer risk in Nova Scotia, Canada. BMC Public Health 2016; 16:175. [PMID: 26895703 PMCID: PMC4761137 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-016-2767-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bladder and kidney cancers are the ninth and twelfth most common type of cancer worldwide, respectively. Internationally, rates vary ten-fold, with several countries showing rising incidence. This study describes the spatial and spatio-temporal variations in the incidence risk of these diseases for Nova Scotia, a province located in Atlantic Canada, where rates for bladder and kidney cancer exceed those of the national average by about 25% and 35%, respectively. METHODS Cancer incidence in the 311 Communities of Nova-Scotia was analyzed with a spatial autoregressive model for the case counts of bladder and kidney cancers (3,232 and 2,143 total cases, respectively), accounting for each Community's population and including variables known to influence risk. A spatially-continuous analysis, using a geostatistical Local Expectation-Maximization smoothing algorithm, modeled finer-scale spatial variation in risk for south-western Nova Scotia (1,810 bladder and 957 kidney cases) and Cape Breton (1,101 bladder, 703 kidney). RESULTS Evidence of spatial variations in the risk of bladder and kidney cancer was demonstrated using both aggregated Community-level mapping and continuous-grid based localized mapping; and these were generally stable over time. The Community-level analysis suggested that much of this heterogeneity was not accounted for by known explanatory variables. There appears to be a north-east to south-west increasing gradient with a number of south-western Communities have risk of bladder or kidney cancer more than 10% above the provincial average. Kidney cancer risk was also elevated in various northeastern communities. Over a 12 year period this exceedance translated in an excess of 200 cases. Patterns of variations in risk obtained from the spatially continuous smoothing analysis generally mirrored those from the Community-level autoregressive model, although these more localized risk estimates resulted in a larger spatial extent for which risk is likely to be elevated. CONCLUSIONS Modelling the spatio-temporal distribution of disease risk enabled the quantification of risk relative to expected background levels and the identification of high risk areas. It also permitted the determination of the relative stability of the observed patterns over time and in this study, pointed to excess risk potentially driven by exposure to risk factors that act in a sustained manner over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Saint-Jacques
- />Cancer Care Nova Scotia, Surveillance and Epidemiology Unit, Room 560 Bethune Building, 1276 South Street, Halifax, B3H 2Y9 NS Canada
- />Interdisciplinary PhD program, Dalhousie University, 6299 South Street, Room 314, PO Box 15000, Halifax, B3H 4R2 NS Canada
| | - Jonathan S. W. Lee
- />Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Toronto, 100 St. George St., Toronto, M5S 3G3 ON Canada
- />Cancer Care Ontario, 620 University Ave, Toronto, M5G 2 L7 ON Canada
| | - Patrick Brown
- />Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Toronto, 100 St. George St., Toronto, M5S 3G3 ON Canada
- />Cancer Care Ontario, 620 University Ave, Toronto, M5G 2 L7 ON Canada
| | - Jamie Stafford
- />Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Toronto, 100 St. George St., Toronto, M5S 3G3 ON Canada
| | - Louise Parker
- />Department of Pediatrics and Population Cancer Research Program, Dalhousie University, 1494 Carlton Street, PO Box 15000, Halifax, B3H 4R2 NS Canada
| | - Trevor J. B. Dummer
- />The University of British Columbia, School of Population and Public Health, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, V6T 1Z3 BC Canada
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Johnston J, MacDonald Gibson J. Indoor Air Contamination from Hazardous Waste Sites: Improving the Evidence Base for Decision-Making. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:15040-57. [PMID: 26633433 PMCID: PMC4690896 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph121214960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Revised: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
At hazardous waste sites, volatile chemicals can migrate through groundwater and soil into buildings, a process known as vapor intrusion. Due to increasing recognition of vapor intrusion as a potential indoor air pollution source, in 2015 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a new vapor intrusion guidance document. The guidance specifies two conditions for demonstrating that remediation is needed: (1) proof of a vapor intrusion pathway; and (2) evidence that human health risks exceed established thresholds (for example, one excess cancer among 10,000 exposed people). However, the guidance lacks details on methods for demonstrating these conditions. We review current evidence suggesting that monitoring and modeling approaches commonly employed at vapor intrusion sites do not adequately characterize long-term exposure and in many cases may underestimate risks. On the basis of this evidence, we recommend specific approaches to monitoring and modeling to account for these uncertainties. We propose a value of information approach to integrate the lines of evidence at a site and determine if more information is needed before deciding whether the two conditions specified in the vapor intrusion guidance are satisfied. To facilitate data collection and decision-making, we recommend a multi-directional community engagement strategy and consideration of environment justice concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill Johnston
- Division of Environmental Health, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA.
| | - Jacqueline MacDonald Gibson
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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Johnston JE, Kramer AJ, Gibson JM. Community perspectives on the risk of indoor air pollution arising from contaminated groundwater. New Solut 2015; 25:59-77. [PMID: 25815742 DOI: 10.1177/1048291115569026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The migration of volatile contaminants into overlying buildings, known as vapor intrusion, is a health concern for people living above contaminated groundwater. As public health and environmental agencies develop protocols to evaluate vapor intrusion exposure, little attention has been paid to the experiences and opinions of communities likely to be affected by vapor intrusion. Using a community-driven research approach and qualitative interviews, we explored community perspectives on the vapor intrusion pathway and the perceived impact on community health and well-being among neighbors living atop a large, shallow-chlorinated solvent plume in San Antonio, TX. Most participants associated vapor intrusion with health risks, expressing concern about the unavoidable and uncontrollable nature of their exposure. Few were satisfied with the responsiveness of public officials. Above all, participants wanted more accurate, transparent information and additional independent scientific investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill E Johnston
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Amanda J Kramer
- Department of Environmental Sciences & Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jacqueline MacDonald Gibson
- Department of Environmental Sciences & Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Dummer TJB, Yu ZM, Nauta L, Murimboh JD, Parker L. Geostatistical modelling of arsenic in drinking water wells and related toenail arsenic concentrations across Nova Scotia, Canada. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 505:1248-58. [PMID: 24613511 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.02.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Revised: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic is a naturally occurring class 1 human carcinogen that is widespread in private drinking water wells throughout the province of Nova Scotia in Canada. In this paper we explore the spatial variation in toenail arsenic concentrations (arsenic body burden) in Nova Scotia. We describe the regional distribution of arsenic concentrations in private well water supplies in the province, and evaluate the geological and environmental features associated with higher levels of arsenic in well water. We develop geostatistical process models to predict high toenail arsenic concentrations and high well water arsenic concentrations, which have utility for studies where no direct measurements of arsenic body burden or arsenic exposure are available. 892 men and women who participated in the Atlantic Partnership for Tomorrow's Health Project provided both drinking water and toenail clipping samples. Information on socio-demographic, lifestyle and health factors was obtained with a set of standardized questionnaires. Anthropometric indices and arsenic concentrations in drinking water and toenails were measured. In addition, data on arsenic concentrations in 10,498 private wells were provided by the Nova Scotia Department of Environment. We utilised stepwise multivariable logistic regression modelling to develop separate statistical models to: a) predict high toenail arsenic concentrations (defined as toenail arsenic levels ≥0.12 μg g(-1)) and b) predict high well water arsenic concentrations (defined as well water arsenic levels ≥5.0 μg L(-1)). We found that the geological and environmental information that predicted well water arsenic concentrations can also be used to accurately predict toenail arsenic concentrations. We conclude that geological and environmental factors contributing to arsenic contamination in well water are the major contributing influences on arsenic body burden among Nova Scotia residents. Further studies are warranted to assess appropriate intervention strategies for reducing arsenic body burden among human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J B Dummer
- Population Cancer Research Program, Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
| | - Z M Yu
- Population Cancer Research Program, Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - L Nauta
- Population Cancer Research Program, Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - J D Murimboh
- Department of Chemistry, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS, Canada
| | - L Parker
- Population Cancer Research Program, Department of Pediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Walker TR. Environmental Effects Monitoring in Sydney Harbor During Remediation of One of Canada's Most Polluted Sites: A Review and Lessons Learned. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1002/rem.21397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Walker TR, MacAskill D. Monitoring water quality in Sydney Harbour using blue mussels during remediation of the Sydney Tar Ponds, Nova Scotia, Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2014; 186:1623-1638. [PMID: 24105125 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-013-3479-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/01/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Using mussels as monitoring tools we measured water quality in Sydney Harbour during a large scale, multi-year remediation project of the Sydney Tar Ponds (STPs); one of Canada's most contaminated sites. Chemical contaminants were measured in blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) in Sydney Harbour, which were used as monitoring tools to assess the spatio-temporal distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs); polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs); metals (As, Cd, Cu, Hg, Pb, Zn) and lipid content during baseline and 3 years of remediation. The overall spatio-temporal distribution of chemicals in mussels was also compared to contaminants in other marine indicators (e.g., sediment, water and crab tissue). Measured metal concentrations in mussels showed some minor temporal variability (4 years), but these did not appear to be directly related to remediation activities, with the highest concentrations of As, Hg and Zn measured at reference stations. Most measured contaminants showed stable or potentially decreasing concentrations during the study, except Pb and Zn. Individual PAH compounds were mostly undetected during baseline and remediation, except for fluoranthene and pyrene. Concentrations of fluoranthene in mussels and deep water samples were moderately related. Generally, PCBs were undetected (<0.05 μg g(-1)), except during year 2 remediation at some near-field stations. Contaminants measured during this study were at much lower concentrations than previously reported in other studies of mussels in Sydney Harbour and eastern Canada. This is likely due to the ongoing natural recovery of Sydney Harbour and to a lesser extent because of the environmental mitigation protection measures implemented during remediation activities at the STPs. The lack of detection of most individual PAHs and PCBs, plus relatively low bio-accumulation of metals observed during baseline and remediation attest to the effectiveness of using mussels as monitoring tools for environmental quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony R Walker
- Dillon Consulting Limited, 137 Chain Lake Drive, Halifax, NS, Canada, B3S 1B3,
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Walker TR, MacAskill D, Weaver P. Legacy contaminant bioaccumulation in rock crabs in Sydney Harbour during remediation of the Sydney Tar Ponds, Nova Scotia, Canada. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2013; 77:412-417. [PMID: 24119312 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2013.09.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Revised: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of PAHs, PCBs, metals and lipids in hepatopancreas of rock crabs (Cancer irroratus) were measured in Sydney Harbour (SH) for one year prior to remediation and three years of remediation of the Sydney Tar Ponds (STP), Nova Scotia. Low level concentrations of PCBs and metals were measured, although PAHs were mostly undetected. Metal concentrations showed little spatio-temporal variability, although highest concentrations of As, Cd and Cu were measured at reference stations furthest from the STP remediation site. Mercury concentrations were at least an order of magnitude lower than Canadian guidelines. Moderately elevated PCB concentrations were detected in crabs near Muggah Creek, but these were generally not higher than those measured during baseline. Despite remediation activities, current contaminant burdens measured in crabs were much lower than previously reported in other studies of crabs and lobster in industrial harbours in eastern Canada, due in part to natural recovery of SH sediments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony R Walker
- Dillon Consulting Limited, 137 Chain Lake Drive, Halifax, NS B3S 1B3, Canada.
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Walker TR, Macaskill D, Rushton T, Thalheimer A, Weaver P. Monitoring effects of remediation on natural sediment recovery in Sydney Harbour, Nova Scotia. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2013; 185:8089-8107. [PMID: 23512488 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-013-3157-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2012] [Accepted: 02/28/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Chemical contaminants were assessed in Sydney Harbour, Nova Scotia during pre-remediation (baseline) and 3 years of remediation of a former coking and steel facility after nearly a century of operation and historical pollution into the Sydney Tar Ponds (STP). Concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls, metals, and inorganic parameters measured in sediments and total suspended solids in seawater indicate that the overall spatial distribution pattern of historical contaminants remains unchanged, although at much lower concentrations than previously reported due to natural sediment recovery, despite remediation activities. Measured sediment deposition rates in bottom-moored traps during baseline were low (0.4-0.8 cm year(-1)), but during dredging operations required for construction of new port facilities in the inner Sydney Harbour, sedimentation rates were equivalent to 26-128 cm year(-1). Measurements of sediment chemical contaminants confirmed that natural recovery rates of Sydney Harbour sediments were in broad agreement with predicted concentrations, or in some cases, lower than originally predicted despite remediation activities at the STP site. Overall, most measured contaminants in sediments showed little temporal variability (4 years), except for the detection of significant increases in total PAH concentrations during the onset of remediation monitoring compared to baseline. This slight increase represents only a short-term interruption in the overall natural recovery of sediments in Sydney Harbour, which were enhanced due to the positive impacts of large-scale dredging of less contaminated outer harbor sediments which were discharged into a confined disposal area located in the inner harbor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony R Walker
- Dillon Consulting Limited, 137 Chain Lake Drive, Halifax, NS, B3S 1B3, Canada.
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Walker TR, MacAskill D, Weaver P. Environmental recovery in Sydney Harbour, Nova Scotia: evidence of natural and anthropogenic sediment capping. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2013; 74:446-452. [PMID: 23820194 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2013.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2013] [Revised: 06/04/2013] [Accepted: 06/08/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Contaminants were assessed in Sydney Harbour during baseline and three years of remediation of a former coking and steel facility. Concentrations of PAHs; PCBs; and lead measured in surface sediments indicate overall spatial distribution patterns of historical contaminants remains unchanged, although at much lower concentrations than previously reported due to natural sediment recovery. Recovery rates were in broad agreement with predicted concentrations; or in some cases lower, despite remediation at the Sydney Tar Ponds (STP) site. Contaminants showed little temporal variability, except for detection of significant increases in PAH concentrations during onset of remediation compared to baseline which represented a short term interruption in the overall long term natural recovery of sediments in Sydney Harbour. Recovery (via "capping") was enhanced following recent harbour dredging activities where less contaminated outer harbour sediments were discharged into a confined disposal facility (CDF) required for a new container in the inner harbour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony R Walker
- Dillon Consulting Limited, 137 Chain Lake Drive, Halifax, NS B3S 1B3, Canada.
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Scammell MK. Qualitative environmental health research: an analysis of the literature, 1991-2008. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2012; 16:4239-55. [PMID: 22031153 DOI: 10.1590/s1413-81232011001100030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Qualitative research uses nonnumeric data to understand people's opinions, motives, understanding, and beliefs about events or phenomena. In this analysis, I report the use of qualitative methods and data in the study of the relationship between environmental exposures and human health. A primary search for peer-reviewed journal articles dated from 1991 through 2008 included the following three terms: qualitative, environ*, and health. Searches resulted in 3,155 records. Data were extracted and findings of articles analyzed to determine where and by whom qualitative environmental health research is conducted and published, the types of methods and analyses used in qualitative studies of environmental health, and the types of information qualitative data contribute to environmental health. The results highlight a diversity of disciplines and techniques among researchers who used qualitative methods to study environmental health. Nearly all of the studies identified increased scientific understanding of lay perceptions of environmental health exposures. This analysis demonstrates the potential of qualitative data to improve understanding of complex exposure pathways, including the influence of social factors on environmental health, and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Kangsen Scammell
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, Boston, MA, USA.
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Scammell MK. Qualitative environmental health research: an analysis of the literature, 1991-2008. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2010; 118:1146-54. [PMID: 20421191 PMCID: PMC2920087 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.0901762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2009] [Accepted: 04/26/2010] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent articles have advocated for the use of qualitative methods in environmental health research. Qualitative research uses nonnumeric data to understand people's opinions, motives, understanding, and beliefs about events or phenomena. OBJECTIVE In this analysis of the literature, I report the use of qualitative methods and data in the study of the relationship between environmental exposures and human health. DATA SOURCES A primary search on ISI Web of Knowledge/Web of Science for peer-reviewed journal articles dated from 1991 through 2008 included the following three terms: qualitative, environ*, and health. Inclusion and exclusion criteria are described. DATA EXTRACTION Searches resulted in 3,155 records. Data were extracted and findings of articles analyzed to determine where and by whom qualitative environmental health research is conducted and published, the types of methods and analyses used in qualitative studies of environmental health, and the types of information qualitative data contribute to environmental health. DATA SYNTHESIS Ninety-one articles met inclusion criteria. These articles were published in 58 different journals, with a maximum of eight for a single journal. The results highlight a diversity of disciplines and techniques among researchers who used qualitative methods to study environmental health, with most studies relying on one-on-one interviews. Details of the analyses were absent from a large number of studies. Nearly all of the studies identified increased scientific understanding of lay perceptions of environmental health exposures. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Qualitative data are published in traditionally quantitative environmental health studies to a limited extent. However, this analysis demonstrates the potential of qualitative data to improve understanding of complex exposure pathways, including the influence of social factors on environmental health, and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Kangsen Scammell
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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Masuda JR, Poland B, Baxter J. Reaching for environmental health justice: Canadian experiences for a comprehensive research, policy and advocacy agenda in health promotion. Health Promot Int 2010; 25:453-63. [DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daq041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Masuda JR, Crabtree A. Environmental justice in the therapeutic inner city. Health Place 2010; 16:656-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2010.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2009] [Revised: 12/23/2009] [Accepted: 02/08/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Smith JN, Lee K, Gobeil C, Macdonald RW. Natural rates of sediment containment of PAH, PCB and metal inventories in Sydney Harbour, Nova Scotia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2009; 407:4858-4869. [PMID: 19523665 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2008] [Revised: 05/08/2009] [Accepted: 05/14/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Analyses of metal and organic contaminants were carried out on 41 sediment cores, dated using (210)Pb and (137)Cs, from the heavily industrialized region of Sydney Harbour, N.S. to evaluate the history of contamination and to predict the rates of natural containment of the harbour by sediment burial. Geochronologies for metals (eg. Pb, As) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are correlated with the development of the steel and coke industries in the Sydney region while polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) geochronologies reflect the disposal of electrical equipment used in the steel mill/coking operations. Pb was derived mainly from atmospheric emissions and its concentration has declined exponentially with time in harbour sediments since the closure of the steel mill/coke ovens in the 1980s with a time constant of about 15 years. This represents the time scale for the circulation of this particle-associated contaminant in transient catchment basins prior to permanent deposition in the sediments. PAH and PCB sediment concentrations have also declined exponentially with time since the 1980s, but with a smaller time constant of 10 years owing to the fact that they enter the harbour directly with steel mill and coke oven effluent rather than through atmospheric pathways. Since the time dependence for the burial of metal and organic inventories can be modeled by first order processes, future contaminant levels can be predicted for surface sediments in Sydney Harbour. Mean sediment concentrations of metal and organic contaminants in the upper 5 cm throughout most of the harbour are predicted to decline to levels below the effects range-medium (above which organisms are very likely to be negatively affected by the presence of a contaminant) by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- J N Smith
- Bedford Institute of Oceanography, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Dartmouth, NS, Canada B2Y 4A2.
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