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Stalwick JA, Ratelle M, Gurney KEB, Drysdale M, Lazarescu C, Comte J, Laird B, Skinner K. Sources of exposure to lead in Arctic and subarctic regions: a scoping review. Int J Circumpolar Health 2023; 82:2208810. [PMID: 37196187 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2023.2208810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding lead exposure pathways is a priority because of its ubiquitous presence in the environment as well as the potential health risks. We aimed to identify potential lead sources and pathways of lead exposure, including long-range transport, and the magnitude of exposure in Arctic and subarctic communities. A scoping review strategy and screening approach was used to search literature from January 2000 to December 2020. A total of 228 academic and grey literature references were synthesised. The majority of these studies (54%) were from Canada. Indigenous people in Arctic and subarctic communities in Canada had higher levels of lead than the rest of Canada. The majority of studies in all Arctic countries reported at least some individuals above the level of concern. Lead levels were influenced by a number of factors including using lead ammunition to harvest traditional food and living in close proximity to mines. Lead levels in water, soil, and sediment were generally low. Literature showed the possibility of long-range transport via migratory birds. Household lead sources included lead-based paint, dust, or tap water. This literature review will help to inform management strategies for communities, researchers, and governments, with the aim of decreasing lead exposure in northern regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordyn A Stalwick
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Science and Technology Branch, Prairie and Northern Wildlife Research Centre, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Mylène Ratelle
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Kirsty E B Gurney
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Science and Technology Branch, Prairie and Northern Wildlife Research Centre, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Mallory Drysdale
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Calin Lazarescu
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Jérôme Comte
- Institut National de Recherche Scientifique (INRS), Eau Terre Environnement Centre, Québec, Canada
| | - Brian Laird
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Kelly Skinner
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
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2
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Banerji A, Pelletier VA, Haring R, Irvine J, Bresnahan A, Lavallee B. Food insecurity and its consequences in indigenous children and youth in Canada. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002406. [PMID: 37756390 PMCID: PMC10530329 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Food insecurity (FI) is at a crisis level in some Indigenous communities and impacts many of the half million First Nations Inuit and Métis (FNIM) children across Canada, particularly in isolated northern communities. This can lead to malnutrition and can have significant impacts on the physical, intellectual, emotional and social development of a child, often with lasting effects across the life course. This is a narrative review article with extensive search of the medical literature with input from the FNIM National organizations. The primary cause of FI is an imbalance between the high price of food relative to household income, where poverty is a driving factor. The cost and lack of availability to healthy foods has resulted in a transition to unhealthy market foods. Food security programs need to be prioritized, multi-faceted and multi-tiered within a framework of food sovereignty. Translational science, research, to practice is also important. The use of successful Indigenous based models of FI, towards food sovereignty using self-determination, Indigenous Knowledge, strength-based models, and ancestral sustainability are critical. Continued community-based evaluation of FI towards sustainable healthy food programs are important for communities to initiate track, evaluate, and grow robust community-based programs to counter-balance FI. Continued scientific research in the fields of FI, food sovereignty, and their relationship to co-occurring conditions related to healthy eating and beverage consumption are vastly important to the health of Indigenous Peoples. These are all part of many Indigenous connection to the earth, through food source, the maintenance of health through ancestral ways of living, set in the premise of looking forward multiple generations towards the continued resiliency through food, diet, relationship, and sovereignty. Food Security is a human right and needs to be urgently addressed for Indigenous children in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Banerji
- Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Veronique Anne Pelletier
- Consultant Pediatrician, General Pediatrics, CHU Ste-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Rodney Haring
- Academic Family Medicine and Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - James Irvine
- Chair, Roswell Park Department of Indigenous Cancer Health, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, United States of America
| | - Andrew Bresnahan
- Adjunct Faculty, Frost Centre for Canadian Studies and Indigenous Studies, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada and Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada
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3
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Zhang L, Yin Y, Sun Y, Liang X, Graham DE, Pierce EM, Löffler FE, Gu B. Inhibition of Methylmercury and Methane Formation by Nitrous Oxide in Arctic Tundra Soil Microcosms. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:5655-5665. [PMID: 36976621 PMCID: PMC10100821 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c09457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Climate warming causes permafrost thaw predicted to increase toxic methylmercury (MeHg) and greenhouse gas [i.e., methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrous oxide (N2O)] formation. A microcosm incubation study with Arctic tundra soil over 145 days demonstrates that N2O at 0.1 and 1 mM markedly inhibited microbial MeHg formation, methanogenesis, and sulfate reduction, while it slightly promoted CO2 production. Microbial community analyses indicate that N2O decreased the relative abundances of methanogenic archaea and microbial clades implicated in sulfate reduction and MeHg formation. Following depletion of N2O, both MeHg formation and sulfate reduction rapidly resumed, whereas CH4 production remained low, suggesting that N2O affected susceptible microbial guilds differently. MeHg formation strongly coincided with sulfate reduction, supporting prior reports linking sulfate-reducing bacteria to MeHg formation in the Arctic soil. This research highlights complex biogeochemical interactions in governing MeHg and CH4 formation and lays the foundation for future mechanistic studies for improved predictive understanding of MeHg and greenhouse gas fluxes from thawing permafrost ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijie Zhang
- Environmental
Sciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
- Department
of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey 07102, United States
| | - Yongchao Yin
- Biosciences
Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
- Center
for Environmental Biotechnology, University
of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Department
of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Yanchen Sun
- Center
for Environmental Biotechnology, University
of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Xujun Liang
- Environmental
Sciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - David E. Graham
- Biosciences
Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Eric M. Pierce
- Environmental
Sciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Frank E. Löffler
- Biosciences
Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
- Center
for Environmental Biotechnology, University
of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Department
of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Department
of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
- Department
of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Baohua Gu
- Environmental
Sciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
- Department
of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
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4
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Barlow NL, Bradberry SM. Investigation and monitoring of heavy metal poisoning. J Clin Pathol 2023; 76:82-97. [PMID: 36600633 DOI: 10.1136/jcp-2021-207793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Historically, heavy metal measurement and interpretation has been a highly specialised area performed only in a handful of centres within the UK. However, recent years have seen a move to more local testing due to the repatriation of referred work into pathology networks and the increased availability of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry technology. While management of significant poisoning is still overseen by tertiary care poisoning specialists, management of milder cases may be undertaken locally.Non-specialist clinical scientists and clinicians need to know when heavy metal testing is appropriate, which samples are required (and any specific requirements around collection) and how to interpret and act on the results.This Best Practice article provides guidance on the investigation and monitoring of the toxic elements most frequently encountered in general medical practice; lead, mercury and arsenic. It is intended as a reference guide for the non-specialist and as a comprehensive summary for clinical toxicologists and clinical scientists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola L Barlow
- Clinical Biochemistry, Black Country Pathology Services, West Bromwich, UK
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5
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Berky AJ, Robie E, Chipa SN, Ortiz EJ, Palmer EJ, Rivera NA, Avalos AMM, Meyer JN, Hsu-Kim H, Pan WK. Risk of lead exposure from wild game consumption from cross-sectional studies in Madre de Dios, Peru. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH - AMERICAS 2022; 12. [PMID: 36237535 PMCID: PMC9555248 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2022.100266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Methods Findings Interpretation
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel J. Berky
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Grainger Hall, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708, USA
- Corresponding author.
| | - Emily Robie
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, NC 27080, USA
| | | | - Ernesto J. Ortiz
- Duke Global Health Innovations Centre, Duke University, NC 27080, USA
| | - Emma J. Palmer
- Civil Architectural and Environmental Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Nelson A. Rivera
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Ana Maria Morales Avalos
- Dirección Ejecutiva de Medicina Alternativa y Complementaria, Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Peru
| | - Joel N. Meyer
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Grainger Hall, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Heileen Hsu-Kim
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - William K. Pan
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Grainger Hall, 9 Circuit Drive, Box 90328, Durham, NC 27708, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, NC 27080, USA
- Corresponding author at: Dirección Regional de Salud, Madre de Dios, Peru.
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6
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Morris AD, Braune BM, Gamberg M, Stow J, O'Brien J, Letcher RJ. Temporal change and the influence of climate and weather factors on mercury concentrations in Hudson Bay polar bears, caribou, and seabird eggs. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 207:112169. [PMID: 34624268 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112169] [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: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Temporal trends of mercury in Arctic wildlife are inconsistent within and between species and are often insignificant, which limits data interpretation. Recent multivariate analyses have shown that weather and climate factors (e.g. temperatures, sea ice conditions) are related to total Hg (THg) concentrations in wildlife tissues, though relatively few studies have explored these relationships. The present study compared time series of THg concentrations in liver of polar bear (Ursus maritimus, 2007/08-2015/16), eggs of thick-billed murres (Uria lomvia, 1993-2015) and kidney of caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus, 2006-2015) from the Hudson Bay region of Canada and statistically modelled THg over time with available climate and weather data. Significant temporal trends of THg concentrations were not detected in any species. However, in multivariate models that included time-lagged sea ice freeze up dates, THg concentrations increased 4.4% yr-1 in Qamanirjuaq caribou. Sea ice conditions were also related to THg levels in polar bear liver but not those in eggs of murres, though year was not a signifcant factor. Greater precipitation levels one to two years prior to sampling were associated with greater THg concentrations in polar bears and caribou, likely due to greater deposition, flooding and discharge from nearby wetlands and rivers. Time-lagged Arctic and/or North Atlantic Oscillation (AO/NAO) indices also generated significant, inverse models for all three species, agreeing with relationships in other time series of similar length. The magnitude and direction of many relationships were affected by season, duration of time-lags, and the length of the time series. Our findings support recent observations suggesting that temporal studies monitoring Hg in Arctic wildlife should consider including key climatic or weather factors to help identify consistent variables of influence and to improve temporal analyses of THg time series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam D Morris
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive (Raven Road), Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada; Department of Chemistry, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive (Raven Road), Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada.
| | - Birgit M Braune
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive (Raven Road), Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada.
| | - Mary Gamberg
- Gamberg Consulting, Box 11267, Whitehorse, YT, Y1A 2J2, Canada.
| | - Jason Stow
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 501 University Crescent, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2N6, Canada.
| | - Jason O'Brien
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive (Raven Road), Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada; Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive (Raven Road), Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada.
| | - Robert J Letcher
- Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive (Raven Road), Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada; Department of Chemistry, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive (Raven Road), Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada; Department of Biology, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive (Raven Road), Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada.
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7
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Nozais C, Vincent WF, Belzile C, Gosselin M, Blais MA, Canário J, Archambault P. The Great Whale River ecosystem: ecology of a subarctic river and its receiving waters in coastal Hudson Bay, Canada. ECOSCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/11956860.2021.1926137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Nozais
- Québec-Océan & Département de Biologie, Chimie et Géographie, Université du Québec À Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada
| | - Warwick F. Vincent
- Centre d’études Nordiques (CEN) & Département de Biologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Claude Belzile
- Québec-Océan & Institut des Sciences de la Mer de Rimouski, Université du Québec À Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada
| | - Michel Gosselin
- Québec-Océan & Institut des Sciences de la Mer de Rimouski, Université du Québec À Rimouski, Rimouski, Canada
| | - Marie-Amélie Blais
- Centre d’études Nordiques (CEN) & Département de Biologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - João Canário
- Centro de Química Estrututal, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Philippe Archambault
- ArcticNet, Québec-Océan & Département de Biologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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Moriarity RJ, Liberda EN, Tsuji LJS. Using a geographic information system to assess local scale methylmercury exposure from fish in nine communities of the Eeyou Istchee territory (James Bay, Quebec, Canada). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 191:110147. [PMID: 32877705 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to methylmercury is a concern for those who rely on fish as a traditional food in the Eeyou Istchee territory of James Bay, Quebec, Canada, because industrial land uses overlap with community water bodies where fish are harvested. Consequently, this study assessed if traditional practices, particularly fishing, increased the risk of exposure to methylmercury from the consumption of locally harvested fish. We designed a geographic information system (GIS) that included land use and fish methylmercury tissue concentrations to assess clustering of potential hot spots. We also used generalized linear models to assess the association of fish consumption to blood organic-mercury concentrations, and logistic regression models to assess the probability of fish exceeding the safety threshold for methylmercury tissue concentrations in areas of high intensity land use. The GIS demonstrated significant clustered hot spots around regions of hydroelectric and mining land use. Our results also revealed that adult consumption of pike, lake trout and/or walleye, and child consumption of pike or walleye were significantly associated with blood organic-mercury concentrations. Further, large fish harvested in a community with high intensity land use yielded a 77% probability that the fish exceeded the safety threshold. From a human exposure perspective, our study highlights the need for further research on children who consume fish from this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Moriarity
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Eric N Liberda
- School of Occupational and Public Health, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Leonard J S Tsuji
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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9
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Mu X, Wang Z, Liu L, Guo X, Gu C, Xu H, Zhao L, Jiang W, Cao H, Mao X, Huang T, Gao H, Ma J. Multiple exposure pathways of first-year university students to heavy metals in China: Serum sampling and atmospheric modeling. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 746:141405. [PMID: 32771764 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we collected 308 serum samples from 17 to 20 year old first-year university students who were recruited from Lanzhou University in China a few days after their enrollment to measure the serum Pb, Cd, Hg, and As levels, and specific questionnaires for age, sex, settlement and dietary structure were designed. A 3-D atmospheric transport model was used to simulate the atmospheric concentration and dry deposition across China based on gridded Pb emission inventory to examine the association between the spatial distribution of serum concentrations and environmental fates of Pb. The mean serum Pb, Cd, Hg, and As concentrations averaged over all participating young students were 21.38, 1.46, 3.86, and 4.69 μg/L, respectively. The Pb, Cd, and Hg levels in 3%, 7%, and 20% serum samples exceeded the standards. The minimum serum As and Hg concentrations and the maximum serum Pb and Cd concentrations occurred in urban areas. Seafood diet habits (P < 0.05), sex (P < 0.05), and relocation (P < 0.01) caused significant differences in serum As, Pb, and Cd concentrations. A cluster analysis was carried out to classify the exposure pathways for target contaminants. The results indicated that 4 heavy metals in the serum of volunteers from northern China could be grouped into the same category, in which significant positive correlations were found between the serum heavy metal levels and background concentrations of surface soil. However, in other provinces and metropolises, the atmospheric pollution level played a critical role involving in the inhalation exposure pathway. We demonstrated that serum Pb levels in freshman students were related to the atmospheric transport and dry deposition of Pb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Mu
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, Gansu Province, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhanxiang Wang
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, Gansu Province, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Lichun Liu
- Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xiaohong Guo
- Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Chen Gu
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, Gansu Province, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Hua Xu
- School Hospital, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Liuyuan Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, Gansu Province, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Wanyanhan Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, Gansu Province, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Hongmei Cao
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Mao
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, Gansu Province, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, Gansu Province, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Hong Gao
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, Gansu Province, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| | - Jianmin Ma
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Prediction and Control, Gansu Province, College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
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Adamou TY, Riva M, Muckle G, Laouan Sidi EA, Lemire M, Ayotte P. Blood mercury and plasma polychlorinated biphenyls concentrations in pregnant Inuit women from Nunavik: Temporal trends, 1992-2017. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 743:140495. [PMID: 32758811 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The Inuit of Nunavik (Northern Quebec, Canada) are exposed to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and mercury (Hg) through their consumption of marine country foods. A temporal trend study was initiated in 1992 to monitor circulating levels of PCBs and Hg in pregnant Inuit women, since the fetus is most at risk of adverse health effects. We set out (1) to describe temporal trends of PCBs and Hg levels in pregnant Nunavik women between 1992 and 2017; (2) to determine the prevalence of participants exceeding the guidance values in 2017; (3) to investigate relations between marine country food intake and contaminant levels over the study period. A total of 559 pregnant women provided a blood sample for contaminant analysis from 1992 to 2017. PCB congeners were quantified in plasma (serum) by gas chromatography (GC) coupled to electron capture detection or mass spectrometry (MS). We determined whole blood mercury concentration by cold vapor atomic absorption or inductively-coupled plasma MS. We performed multilevel modeling to assess temporal trends in contaminant levels and relations with marine country food consumption. Concentrations of total PCBs and Hg decreased by 84% and 65% between 1992 and 2017, respectively. Nevertheless, 10% and 22% of women in 2017 exceeded guidance values for PCBs and Hg, respectively. While the decline in marine country food intake is the only factor associated with decreasing Hg levels, other factors may explain the decline in PCB levels. Despite the significant decline in PCBs and Hg levels from 1992 to 2017, exposure to these contaminants is still quite prevalent among pregnant Nunavik women. Most of the decline in Hg exposure is likely due to a shift away from marine country foods to store-bought foods, which is a concern given the cultural and nutritional importance of country foods and the high food insecurity that prevails in Nunavik.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thérèse Yéro Adamou
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec - Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Hôpital Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Ste-Foy, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; Faculté des sciences infirmières, Université Laval, Pavillon Ferdinand Vandry 1050, avenue de la Médecine, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Mylène Riva
- Canada Research Chair in Housing, Community, and Health, Institute for Health and Social Policy, McGill University, Avenue des Pins, Montréal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada; Department of Geography, McGill University, Burnside Hall Building, 805 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, QC H3A 0B9, Canada.
| | - Gina Muckle
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec - Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Hôpital Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Ste-Foy, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; École de psychologie, Université Laval, Pavillon Félix-Antoine-Savard, 2325 rue des Bibliothèques, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Elhadji Anassour Laouan Sidi
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec - Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Hôpital Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Ste-Foy, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada.
| | - Mélanie Lemire
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec - Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Hôpital Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Ste-Foy, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; Département de médecine sociale et préventive, Université Laval, Pavillon Ferdinand Vandry 1050, avenue de la Médecine, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec - Axe Santé des Populations et Pratiques Optimales en Santé, Hôpital Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Ste-Foy, Québec, QC G1S 4L8, Canada; Département de médecine sociale et préventive, Université Laval, Pavillon Ferdinand Vandry 1050, avenue de la Médecine, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre de toxicologie, Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, 945 avenue Wolfe, Québec, QC G1V 5B3, Canada.
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Gump BB, Hruska B, Parsons PJ, Palmer CD, MacKenzie JA, Bendinskas K, Brann L. Dietary contributions to increased background lead, mercury, and cadmium in 9-11 Year old children: Accounting for racial differences. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 185:109308. [PMID: 32222635 PMCID: PMC7898456 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Initial interest in the adverse consequences of exposure to lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd) focused on relatively high exposures through environmental or occupational sources; however, recent evidence suggests even low-level background exposure to non-essential metals might be detrimental, particularly for children's health and development. One potentially important source of increased background levels of non-essential toxic metals is diet. OBJECTIVES We considered whether differences in diet are associated with levels of non-essential metals in blood and whether racial differences in metals are mediated by dietary differences. METHODS We assessed blood levels of Pb, Hg, and Cd in a sample of 9-11 year-old children (N = 295) comprised of 42% European Americans (EAs), 58% African American (AAs), and 47% female. Diet was assessed using 24-h dietary recalls during phone interviews administered to parents on two consecutive days (Friday and Saturday). The Healthy Eating Index-2105 (HEI-2015) was calculated to assess diet quality. RESULTS The current study identified significant dietary sources of non-essential metal exposure - namely total fruit for Pb, total protein for Hg, and greens and beans for Cd. Moreover, AAs were found to have significantly higher blood levels of Pb and Hg than EAs and these racial differences were significantly mediated by these dietary differences. DISCUSSION This study is one of very few to consider total diet in children and exposure to the non-essential metals Pb, Hg, and Cd, and the first to demonstrate that racial differences in increased background blood levels of non-essential toxic metals can be accounted for by racial differences in diet. Given regional differences in food consumption patterns and specific farm and store sources for the foods, the generalizability of the current findings has yet to be determined; however, commonly consumed foods appear to be a significant source of low-level non-essential metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooks B Gump
- Department of Public Health, Food Studies, and Nutrition, Syracuse University, United States.
| | - Bryce Hruska
- Department of Public Health, Food Studies, and Nutrition, Syracuse University, United States
| | - Patrick J Parsons
- Laboratory of Inorganic and Nuclear Chemistry, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, United States; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, The University at Albany, United States
| | - Christopher D Palmer
- Laboratory of Inorganic and Nuclear Chemistry, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, United States; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, The University at Albany, United States
| | - James A MacKenzie
- Department of Biological Sciences, State University of New York College at Oswego, United States
| | - Kestutis Bendinskas
- Department of Chemistry, State University of New York College at Oswego, United States
| | - Lynn Brann
- Department of Public Health, Food Studies, and Nutrition, Syracuse University, United States
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M. Nilsen F, Frank J, S. Tulve N. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Investigating the Relationship between Exposures to Chemical and Non-Chemical Stressors during Prenatal Development and Childhood Externalizing Behaviors. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17072361. [PMID: 32244397 PMCID: PMC7177257 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17072361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Childhood behavioral outcomes have been linked to low quality intrauterine environments caused by prenatal exposures to both chemical and non-chemical stressors. The effect(s) from the many stressors a child can be prenatally exposed to may be influenced by complex interactive relationships that are just beginning to be understood. Chemical stressors influence behavioral outcomes by affecting the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) enzyme, which is involved in serotonin metabolism and the neuroendocrine response to stress. Non-chemical stressors, particularly those associated with violence, have been shown to influence and exacerbate the externalizing behavioral outcomes associated with low MAOA activity and slowed serotonin metabolism. The adverse developmental effects associated with high stress and maternal drug use during pregnancy are well documented. However, research examining the combined effects of other non-chemical and chemical stressors on development and childhood outcomes as a result of gestational exposures is scarce but is an expanding field. In this systematic review, we examined the extant literature to explore the interrelationships between exposures to chemical and non-chemical stressors (specifically stressful/traumatic experiences), MAOA characteristics, and childhood externalizing behaviors. We observed that exposures to chemical stressors (recreational drugs and environmental chemicals) are significantly related to externalizing behavioral outcomes in children. We also observed that existing literature examining the interactions between MAOA characteristics, exposures to chemical stressors, and traumatic experiences and their effects on behavioral outcomes is sparse. We propose that maternal stress and cortisol fluctuations during pregnancy may be an avenue to link these concepts. We recommend that future studies investigating childhood behaviors include chemical and non-chemical stressors as well as children’s inherent genetic characteristics to gain a holistic understanding of the relationship between prenatal exposures and childhood behavioral outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances M. Nilsen
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, 109 TW Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Jessica Frank
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, 109 TW Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA;
| | - Nicolle S. Tulve
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, 109 TW Alexander Dr., Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA;
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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.
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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
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Ratelle M, Skinner K, Laird MJ, Majowicz S, Brandow D, Packull-McCormick S, Bouchard M, Dieme D, Stark KD, Henao JJA, Hanning R, Laird BD. Implementation of human biomonitoring in the Dehcho region of the Northwest Territories, Canada (2016-2017). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 76:73. [PMID: 30524727 PMCID: PMC6276191 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-018-0318-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Human biomonitoring represents an important tool for health risk assessment, supporting the characterization of contaminant exposure and nutrient status. In communities where country foods (locally harvested foods: land animals, fish, birds, plants) are integrated in the daily diet, as is the case in remote northern regions where food security is a challenge, such foods can potentially be a significant route of contaminant exposure. To assess this issue, a biomonitoring project was implemented among Dene/Métis communities of the Dehcho region of the Northwest Territories, Canada. Methods Participants completed dietary surveys (i.e., a food frequency questionnaire and 24-h recall) to estimate food consumption patterns as well as a Health Messages Survey to evaluate the awareness and perception of contaminants and consumption notices. Biological sampling of hair, urine and blood was conducted. Toxic metals (e.g., mercury, lead, cadmium), essential metals (e.g., copper, nickel, zinc), fatty acids, and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) were measured in samples. Results The levels of contaminants in blood, hair and urine for the majority of participants were below the available guidance values for mercury, cadmium, lead and uranium. However, from the 279 participants, approximately 2% were invited to provide follow up samples, mainly for elevated mercury level. Also, at the population level, blood lead (GM: 11 μg/L) and blood cadmium (GM: 0.53 μg/L) were slightly above the Canadian Health Measures Survey data. Therefore, although country foods occasionally contain elevated levels of particular contaminants, human exposures to these metals remained similar to those seen in the Canadian general population. In addition, dietary data showed the importance and diversity of country foods across participating communities, with the consumption of an average of 5.1% of total calories from wild-harvested country foods. Conclusion This project completed in the Mackenzie Valley of the Northwest Territories fills a data gap across other biomonitoring studies in Canada as it integrates community results, will support stakeholders in the development of public health strategies, and will inform environmental health issue prioritization. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13690-018-0318-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mylène Ratelle
- 1School of Public Health and Health Systems, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Kelly Skinner
- 1School of Public Health and Health Systems, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Matthew J Laird
- 1School of Public Health and Health Systems, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Shannon Majowicz
- 1School of Public Health and Health Systems, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Danielle Brandow
- 1School of Public Health and Health Systems, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Sara Packull-McCormick
- 1School of Public Health and Health Systems, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Michèle Bouchard
- 2Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 2900 Edouard-Montpetit, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Denis Dieme
- 2Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 2900 Edouard-Montpetit, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Ken D Stark
- 1School of Public Health and Health Systems, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Juan Jose Aristizabal Henao
- 1School of Public Health and Health Systems, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Rhona Hanning
- 1School of Public Health and Health Systems, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Brian D Laird
- 1School of Public Health and Health Systems, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON Canada
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16
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Kordas K, Ravenscroft J, Cao Y, McLean EV. Lead Exposure in Low and Middle-Income Countries: Perspectives and Lessons on Patterns, Injustices, Economics, and Politics. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E2351. [PMID: 30356019 PMCID: PMC6266944 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15112351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Lead exposure is a legacy issue that continues to affect vulnerable population groups globally, but particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICS). We take a multi-disciplinary approach to examine the patterns of lead exposure in these countries, discuss the underlying injustices and socio-political causes, and the economic costs that are associated with exposure. We conclude with some lessons we drew from our discussion of lead across the disciplines and advocate for a number of approaches to solving this ongoing issue. These include (i) biomonitoring that could be integrated into existing health surveys or public health programs targeting young children; (ii) greater civic engagement to push for solutions; and, (iii) environmental control policies that represent a continuum of local, context-specific to broad, national-level, and even global approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kordas
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
| | - Julia Ravenscroft
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
| | - Ying Cao
- Division of Health Services Policy and Practice, Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
| | - Elena V McLean
- Department of Political Science, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA.
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17
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Adamou TY, Riva M, Muckle G, Laouan-Sidi EA, Ayotte P. Socio-economic inequalities in blood mercury (Hg) and serum polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations among pregnant Inuit women from Nunavik, Canada. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2018; 109:671-683. [PMID: 30030682 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-018-0077-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined the relationships between socio-economic characteristics and mercury (Hg) and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations among pregnant Inuit women from Nunavik. METHOD We used biomonitoring data from 208 pregnant Inuit women recruited in the 14 villages of Nunavik between September 2011 and December 2013. Blood samples were collected to monitor levels of blood Hg and serum congener PCB-153 (surrogate of total PCB concentration). Ratio of omega 3/omega 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, a validated biomarker of marine country food consumption, was also measured in red blood cell membranes to determine maternal dietary profile. Data on socio-economic characteristics (income and education), health-related lifestyles, and reproductive history were collected through questionnaires. Association between socio-economic characteristics and contaminant concentrations was assessed using linear regressions. RESULTS We observed a significant inverse relationship between education and Hg levels. Lower concentrations of Hg were observed among women who had completed high school compared to women who had not completed high school. However, no association was observed between level of education and concentration of PCBs. CONCLUSION Socio-economic disparities in maternal exposure to Hg exist in Nunavik. Further research is needed to determine whether environmental health inequalities also exist in other subgroups of the Nunavik population and in other Indigenous communities in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thérèse Yéro Adamou
- Population Health and Practice-changing Research Group, CHU de Québec Research Centre, Hôpital Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec, Qc, G1S 4L8, Canada. .,Faculty of Nursing, Université Laval, Pavillon Ferdinand Vandry, 1050 avenue de la médecine, Québec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Mylène Riva
- Department of Geography, McGill University, Burnside Hall Building, 805 Sherbrooke street west, Montreal, QC, H3A 0B9, Canada.,Institute for Health and Social Policy, McGill University, Avenue des pins, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Gina Muckle
- Population Health and Practice-changing Research Group, CHU de Québec Research Centre, Hôpital Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec, Qc, G1S 4L8, Canada.,School of Psychology, Université Laval, Pavillon Félix-Antoine-Savard, 2325 rue des Bibliothèques, Québec, Qc, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Elhadji Anassour Laouan-Sidi
- Population Health and Practice-changing Research Group, CHU de Québec Research Centre, Hôpital Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec, Qc, G1S 4L8, Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Population Health and Practice-changing Research Group, CHU de Québec Research Centre, Hôpital Saint-Sacrement, 1050 Chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec, Qc, G1S 4L8, Canada.,Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, 945 avenue Wolfe, Québec, Qc, G1V 5B3, Canada
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18
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Qin YY, Jian B, Wu C, Jiang CZ, Kang Y, Zhou JX, Yang F, Liang Y. A comparison of blood metal levels in autism spectrum disorder and unaffected children in Shenzhen of China and factors involved in bioaccumulation of metals. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:17950-17956. [PMID: 29680891 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-1957-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The present study compared blood plasma metals in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with those in unaffected children in Shenzhen (China). Factors associated with the metal bioaccumulation were further investigated. Thirty-four blood samples of children with ASD were collected in a local hospital (Shenzhen Children's Hospital), while those of 38 unaffected children were from a local large public kindergarten, during March to April in 2016. Metal analysis was carried out by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. The results showed that children with ASD had higher (P < 0.01, 0.05) Pb (ASD 31.9 μg/L, unaffected children 18.6 μg/L), Hg (3.83, and 1.09 μg/L), and Cd (0.70 and 0.26 μg/L) than unaffected children, while essential elements Zn (ASD 4552.0 μg/L, unaffected children 5118.6 μg/L), Se (61.7 and 90.6 μg/L), and Mn (13.5 and 21.4 μg/L) showed an opposite pattern. Moreover, the children exposed to passive smoking had higher (P < 0.05) Cd (passive smoking 1.08 μg/L; non-passive smoking 0.22 μg/L) than those without the exposure. Positive associations were found between levels of Hg or Pb and seafood consumption as well as body mass index (BMI). More future work is needed in order to clarify the association between metal exposure and ASD occurrence in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Yan Qin
- Shenzhen Polytechnic, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Jian
- Shenzhen Public Security, Shenzhen, 518040, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuan Wu
- School of Metallurgy and Environment, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng-Zi Jiang
- Laboratory for Food Safety and Environmental Technology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Kang
- School of Chemistry and Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Xiu Zhou
- Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518026, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Yang
- Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518026, People's Republic of China.
- Speech Therapy Department, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518026, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yan Liang
- Laboratory for Food Safety and Environmental Technology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China.
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Juric AK, Batal M, David W, Sharp D, Schwartz H, Ing A, Fediuk K, Black A, Tikhonov C, Chan HM, Chan L. Risk assessment of dietary lead exposure among First Nations people living on-reserve in Ontario, Canada using a total diet study and a probabilistic approach. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2018; 344:55-63. [PMID: 29031094 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2017.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Indigenous peoples have elevated risk of lead (Pb) exposure as hunted traditional food can be contaminated with lead-containing ammunition. Recent scientific consensus states that there is no threshold level for Pb exposure. The objective of this study was to estimate dietary exposure to Pb among First Nations living on-reserve in the province of Ontario, Canada. A total diet study was constructed based on a 24-h recall and Pb concentrations for traditional foods from the First Nations Food, Nutrition, and Environment Study (FNFNES) and Pb concentrations in market foods from Health Canada. A probabilistic assessment of annual and seasonal traditional food consumption was conducted. Results indicate that traditional foods, particularly moose and deer meat. are the primary source of dietary Pb intake (73%), despite providing only 1.8% of the average caloric intake. The average dietary Pb exposure (0.21μg/kg/d) in the First Nations population in Ontario was 1.7 times higher than the dietary Pb exposure in the general Canadian population. Pb intake was associated with an estimated average increase in systolic blood pressure of 1.2mmHg. These results indicate that consumption of foods hunted with Pb containing ammunition and shot puts the population at elevated risk of Pb toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Will David
- Assembly of First Nations, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | - Harold Schwartz
- Health Canada, Environmental Public Health Division, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB), Ottawa, Canada
| | - Amy Ing
- Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Karen Fediuk
- Dietitian and Nutrition Researcher, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Constantine Tikhonov
- Health Canada, Environmental Public Health Division, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB), Ottawa, Canada
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Castellanos MJ, Fuente A. The Adverse Effects of Heavy Metals with and without Noise Exposure on the Human Peripheral and Central Auditory System: A Literature Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:E1223. [PMID: 27941700 PMCID: PMC5201364 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13121223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to some chemicals in the workplace can lead to occupational chemical-induced hearing loss. Attention has mainly focused on the adverse auditory effects of solvents. However, other chemicals such as heavy metals have been also identified as ototoxic agents. The aim of this work was to review the current scientific knowledge about the adverse auditory effects of heavy metal exposure with and without co-exposure to noise in humans. PubMed and Medline were accessed to find suitable articles. A total of 49 articles met the inclusion criteria. Results from the review showed that no evidence about the ototoxic effects in humans of manganese is available. Contradictory results have been found for arsenic, lead and mercury as well as for the possible interaction between heavy metals and noise. All studies found in this review have found that exposure to cadmium and mixtures of heavy metals induce auditory dysfunction. Most of the studies investigating the adverse auditory effects of heavy metals in humans have investigated human populations exposed to lead. Some of these studies suggest peripheral and central auditory dysfunction induced by lead exposure. It is concluded that further evidence from human studies about the adverse auditory effects of heavy metal exposure is still required. Despite this issue, audiologists and other hearing health care professionals should be aware of the possible auditory effects of heavy metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Josée Castellanos
- École D'orthophonie et D'audiologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada.
| | - Adrian Fuente
- École D'orthophonie et D'audiologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada.
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21
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Bjerregaard P, Young TK, Dewailly E, Ebbesson SOE. Review Article: Indigenous health in the Arctic: an overview of the circumpolar Inuit population. Scand J Public Health 2016; 32:390-5. [PMID: 15513673 DOI: 10.1080/14034940410028398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The health of the Inuit has undergone substantial changes over the past five centuries, as a result of social, cultural, and economic changes brought about by interactions with Europeans. This process was accelerated considerably in the second half of the twentieth century. The incidence of infectious diseases has declined considerably but is still high compared with Western societies. Chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease are on the increase, while accidents, suicides, violence, and substance abuse are of major importance for the pattern of ill health in most Inuit communities. Lifestyle changes, social change, and changes in society and the environment are major determinants of health among the Inuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Bjerregaard
- Centre for Health Research in Greenland, National Institute of Public Health, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Freshwater discharges drive high levels of methylmercury in Arctic marine biota. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:11789-94. [PMID: 26351688 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1505541112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated levels of neurotoxic methylmercury in Arctic food-webs pose health risks for indigenous populations that consume large quantities of marine mammals and fish. Estuaries provide critical hunting and fishing territory for these populations, and, until recently, benthic sediment was thought to be the main methylmercury source for coastal fish. New hydroelectric developments are being proposed in many northern ecosystems, and the ecological impacts of this industry relative to accelerating climate changes are poorly characterized. Here we evaluate the competing impacts of climate-driven changes in northern ecosystems and reservoir flooding on methylmercury production and bioaccumulation through a case study of a stratified sub-Arctic estuarine fjord in Labrador, Canada. Methylmercury bioaccumulation in zooplankton is higher than in midlatitude ecosystems. Direct measurements and modeling show that currently the largest methylmercury source is production in oxic surface seawater. Water-column methylation is highest in stratified surface waters near the river mouth because of the stimulating effects of terrestrial organic matter on methylating microbes. We attribute enhanced biomagnification in plankton to a thin layer of marine snow widely observed in stratified systems that concentrates microbial methylation and multiple trophic levels of zooplankton in a vertically restricted zone. Large freshwater inputs and the extensive Arctic Ocean continental shelf mean these processes are likely widespread and will be enhanced by future increases in water-column stratification, exacerbating high biological methylmercury concentrations. Soil flooding experiments indicate that near-term changes expected from reservoir creation will increase methylmercury inputs to the estuary by 25-200%, overwhelming climate-driven changes over the next decade.
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Qin YY, Leung CKM, Lin CK, Wong MH. The associations between metals/metalloids concentrations in blood plasma of Hong Kong residents and their seafood diet, smoking habit, body mass index and age. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:13204-13211. [PMID: 25940465 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4417-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2014] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The concentrations of metals/metalloids in blood plasma collected from 111 healthy residents (51 female, 60 male) in Hong Kong (obtained from the Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, from March to April 2008) were quantified by means of a double-focusing sector field inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). Results showed that concentrations of these toxic metals such as Hg, Cd, and Pb in Hong Kong residents were not serious when compared with other countries. Males accumulated significantly higher (p < 0.05 or 0.01) Fe (female 0.92 mg/L; male 1.28), Sn (0.44 μg/L; 0.60), Cr (0.77; 0.90), Hg (1.01; 1.73), and Pb (23.4; 31.6) than females. Smokers accumulated significantly higher (p < 0.05) Cd (smoker 0.27 μg/L; nonsmoker 0.17) and Pb (32.8; 17.6) than nonsmokers. Positive correlations were found between concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, and Hg, with respect to seafood diet habit, body mass index (BMI), and age. More intensive studies involving more samples are needed before a more definite conclusion can be drawn, especially on the causal relationships between concentrations of metals/metalloids with dietary preference and lifestyle of the general public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yan Qin
- Shenzhen Polytechnic, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
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Lemire M, Kwan M, Laouan-Sidi AE, Muckle G, Pirkle C, Ayotte P, Dewailly E. Local country food sources of methylmercury, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids in Nunavik, Northern Quebec. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 509-510:248-59. [PMID: 25135671 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.07.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2014] [Revised: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Country foods are central to Inuit culture and replete in selenium (Se) and long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA). However, some marine country foods bioaccumulate high concentrations of methylmercury (MeHg). Se and n-3 are associated with several health benefits in Nunavik, Northern Quebec, but, recent studies show that prenatal MeHg exposure is associated with visual, cognitive and behavioral deficit later in childhood. The study objectives are to identify contemporary country food sources of MeHg, Se and long-chain n-3 PUFA in Nunavik, particularly among childbearing-age women, taking into account regional differences in consumption profiles. The contribution of different country foods to daily MeHg, Se, long-chain n-3 PUFA intake (μg/kg body weight/day) was estimated using: (i) country food consumption and blood biomarkers data from the 2004 Nunavik Health Survey (387 women, 315 men), and (ii) data on MeHg, Se, long-chain n-3 PUFA concentrations found in Nunavik wildlife species. In the region where most traditional beluga hunting takes place in Nunavik, the prevalence of at-risk blood Hg (≥ 8 μg/L) in childbearing-age women was 78.4%. While most country foods presently consumed contain low MeHg, beluga meat, not a staple of the Inuit diet, is the most important contributor to MeHg: up to two-thirds of MeHg intake in the beluga-hunting region (0.66 of MeHg intake) and to about one-third in other regions. In contrast, seal liver and beluga mattaaq - beluga skin and blubber - only mildly contributed to MeHg (between 0.06 and 0.15 of MeHg intake), depending on the region. Beluga mattaaq also highly contributed to Se intake (0.30 of Se intake). Arctic char, beluga blubber and mattaaq, and seal blubber contributed to most long-chain n-3 PUFA intake. This study highlights the importance of considering interconnections between local ecosystems and dietary habits to develop recommendations and interventions promoting country foods' benefits, while minimizing the risk of MeHg from beluga meat, especially for childbearing-age women.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Lemire
- Axe santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
| | - M Kwan
- Nunavik Research Center, Makivik Corporation, Kuujjuaq, Canada.
| | - A E Laouan-Sidi
- Axe santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
| | - G Muckle
- Axe santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
| | - C Pirkle
- Axe santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
| | - P Ayotte
- Axe santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada; Centre de toxicologie du Québec, Institut national de santé publique, Québec, Canada.
| | - E Dewailly
- Axe santé des populations et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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Karimi R, Silbernagel S, Fisher NS, Meliker JR. Elevated blood Hg at recommended seafood consumption rates in adult seafood consumers. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2014; 217:758-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2014.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Revised: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Sheehan MC, Burke TA, Navas-Acien A, Breysse PN, McGready J, Fox MA. Global methylmercury exposure from seafood consumption and risk of developmental neurotoxicity: a systematic review. Bull World Health Organ 2014; 92:254-269F. [PMID: 24700993 PMCID: PMC3967569 DOI: 10.2471/blt.12.116152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2012] [Revised: 10/15/2013] [Accepted: 11/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine biomarkers of methylmercury (MeHg) intake in women and infants from seafood-consuming populations globally and characterize the comparative risk of fetal developmental neurotoxicity. METHODS A search was conducted of the published literature reporting total mercury (Hg) in hair and blood in women and infants. These biomarkers are validated proxy measures of MeHg, a neurotoxin found primarily in seafood. Average and high-end biomarkers were extracted, stratified by seafood consumption context, and pooled by category. Medians for average and high-end pooled distributions were compared with the reference level established by a joint expert committee of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). FINDINGS Selection criteria were met by 164 studies of women and infants from 43 countries. Pooled average biomarkers suggest an intake of MeHg several times over the FAO/WHO reference in fish-consuming riparians living near small-scale gold mining and well over the reference in consumers of marine mammals in Arctic regions. In coastal regions of south-eastern Asia, the western Pacific and the Mediterranean, average biomarkers approach the reference. Although the two former groups have a higher risk of neurotoxicity than the latter, coastal regions are home to the largest number at risk. High-end biomarkers across all categories indicate MeHg intake is in excess of the reference value. CONCLUSION There is a need for policies to reduce Hg exposure among women and infants and for surveillance in high-risk populations, the majority of which live in low-and middle-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary C Sheehan
- Risk Sciences and Public Policy Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America (USA)
| | - Thomas A Burke
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Ana Navas-Acien
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Patrick N Breysse
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - John McGready
- Department of Biostatistics, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Mary A Fox
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
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Turgeon O'Brien H, Gagné D, Vaissière E, Blanchet R, Lauzière J, Vézina C, Ayotte P. Effect of dietary calcium intake on lead exposure in Inuit children attending childcare centres in Nunavik. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2014; 24:482-495. [PMID: 24382151 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2013.865714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
High blood lead levels (BLLs) can be found in Inuit from Nunavik. At the same time, various nutrients such as calcium could lower lead absorption and toxicity. We examined the effect of dietary calcium intakes on BLLs in 245 preschool Inuit children attending childcare centres in Nunavik. Calcium intake was assessed with one 24-h dietary recall and BLLs were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in whole blood samples. Multiple imputation was performed to deal with missing data. Median blood lead concentration was 0.08 μmol/L. A high proportion of children did not meet the Estimated Average Requirement for vitamin D intake (73 %) and, to a lower extent, for calcium (20 %). Calcium intake was negatively associated with BLLs (p = 0.0001) while child's age and energy intake were positively associated with BLLs (p = 0.015 and p = 0.024, respectively). Consuming traditional foods rich in calcium as well as milk and alternatives may protect against lead exposure.
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Valera B, Ayotte P, Poirier P, Dewailly E. Associations between plasma persistent organic pollutant levels and blood pressure in Inuit adults from Nunavik. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2013; 59:282-289. [PMID: 23872387 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2013.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2013] [Revised: 06/15/2013] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent evidence suggests that exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) increases the risk of hypertension in environmentally exposed populations. High POP levels have been detected in Arctic populations and the exposure is related to high consumption of fish and marine mammals, which represent the traditional diet of these populations. OBJECTIVE We examined the associations between polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine (OC) pesticides and hypertension among Inuit from Nunavik (Quebec, Canada). METHODS A complete set of data was obtained for 315 Inuit≥18years who participated in the "Santé Québec" health survey that was conducted in the 14 villages of Nunavik in 1992. Fourteen polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and 8 OC pesticides or their metabolites were measured in plasma samples using gas chromatography with electron capture detection. Blood pressure (BP) was measured using a standardized protocol and information regarding anti-hypertensive medication was obtained through questionnaires. The associations between log-transformed POPs and hypertension (systolic BP≥140mmHg, diastolic BP≥90mmHg or anti-hypertensive medication) were analyzed using multiple logistic regressions. RESULTS Total PCBs as well as the sum of non-dioxin-like PCBs were significantly associated with higher risk of hypertension. Furthermore, the risk of hypertension increased with higher plasma concentrations of congeners 101, 105, 138 and 187. Models adjusted for BP risk factors became significant after including n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and further adjustment for lead and mercury did not change the results. Regarding OC pesticides, p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE) was associated with increased risk of hypertension while inverse associations were observed with p,p'-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (p,p'-DDT), β-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) and oxychlordane. CONCLUSIONS Some PCB congeners were associated with higher risk of hypertension in this highly exposed population. Most associations became significant after including n-3 PUFAs in the models. However, the analyses of OC pesticides revealed divergent results, which need to be confirmed in further cohort and experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Valera
- Axe santé publique et pratiques optimales en santé, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Canada.
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Magwedere K, Shimwino J, Hemberger Y, Hoffman L, Midzi E, Dziva F. Lead and Cadmium Levels in Liver, Kidney and Muscle of Harvested Wild Springbok (Antidorcus marsupialis) Under Extensive Management in Southern and Southeastern Namibia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.3957/056.043.0110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Sakamoto M, Yasutake A, Kakita A, Ryufuku M, Chan HM, Yamamoto M, Oumi S, Kobayashi S, Watanabe C. Selenomethionine protects against neuronal degeneration by methylmercury in the developing rat cerebrum. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2013; 47:2862-2868. [PMID: 23398308 DOI: 10.1021/es304226h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Although many experimental studies have shown that selenium protects against methylmercury (MeHg) toxicity at different end points, the direct interactive effects of selenium and MeHg on neurons in the brain remain unknown. Our goal is to confirm the protective effects of selenium against neuronal degeneration induced by MeHg in the developing postnatal rat brain using a postnatal rat model that is suitable for extrapolating the effects of MeHg to the fetal brain of humans. As an exposure source of selenium, we used selenomethionine (SeMet), a food-originated selenium. Wistar rats of postnatal days 14 were orally administered with vehicle (control), MeHg (8 mg Hg/kg/day), SeMet (2 mg Se/kg/day), or MeHg plus SeMet coexposure for 10 consecutive days. Neuronal degeneration and reactive astrocytosis were observed in the cerebral cortex of the MeHg-group but the symptoms were prevented by coexposure to SeMet. These findings serve as a proof that dietary selenium can directly protect neurons against MeHg toxicity in the mammalian brain, especially in the developing cerebrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mineshi Sakamoto
- National Institute for Minamata Disease, Minamata, Kumamoto 867-0008, Japan.
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Goodrich JM, Wang Y, Gillespie B, Werner R, Franzblau A, Basu N. Methylmercury and elemental mercury differentially associate with blood pressure among dental professionals. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2013; 216:195-201. [PMID: 22494934 PMCID: PMC3727420 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2012.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2011] [Revised: 02/25/2012] [Accepted: 03/08/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury-associated effects on the cardiovascular system have been documented though discrepancies exist, and most studied populations experience elevated methylmercury exposures. No paper has investigated the impact of low-level elemental (inorganic) mercury exposure on cardiovascular risk in humans. The purpose of this study was to increase understanding of the association between mercury exposure (methylmercury and elemental mercury) and blood pressure measures in a cohort of dental professionals that experience background exposures to both mercury forms. Dental professionals were recruited during the 2010 Michigan Dental Association Annual Convention. Mercury levels in hair and urine samples were analyzed as biomarkers of methylmercury and elemental mercury exposure, respectively. Blood pressure (systolic, diastolic) was measured using an automated device. Distribution of mercury in hair (mean, range: 0.45, 0.02-5.18 μg/g) and urine (0.94, 0.03-5.54 μg/L) correspond well with the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Linear regression models revealed significant associations between diastolic blood pressure (adjusted for blood pressure medication use) and hair mercury (n=262, p=0.02). Urine mercury results opposed hair mercury in many ways. Notably, elemental mercury exposure was associated with a significant systolic blood pressure decrease (n=262, p=0.04) that was driven by the male population. Associations between blood pressure and two forms of mercury were found at exposure levels relevant to the general population, and associations varied according to type of mercury exposure and gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaclyn M. Goodrich
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Brenda Gillespie
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Robert Werner
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, 325 E. Eisenhower Parkway Suite 100, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA
| | - Alfred Franzblau
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Niladri Basu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Valera B, Dewailly E, Poirier P. Association between methylmercury and cardiovascular risk factors in a native population of Quebec (Canada): a retrospective evaluation. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2013; 120:102-108. [PMID: 22959488 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2012.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Revised: 07/24/2012] [Accepted: 08/02/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological evidence suggests a negative impact of methylmercury (MeHg) on cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR). This issue is of concern in Arctic populations such as in the Inuit of Nunavik since this contaminant is accumulated in fish and marine mammals, which still represent the subsistence diet of this population. OBJECTIVE We examined the associations between MeHg and BP and resting HR among Inuit adults. METHODS The "Santé Quebec" health survey was conducted in 1992 in the 14 villages of Nunavik and a complete set of data was obtained for 313 Inuit adults≥18 years. Blood samples were collected in order to determine total mercury, lead, total polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), fasting glucose and lipid profile while socio-demographic variables were obtained through questionnaires. Anthropometric measurements as well as BP and resting HR were obtained using standardised protocols. Pulse pressure (PP: systolic BP minus diastolic BP) was also calculated. Multiple linear regression was used in order to determine the change in the dependent variables associated with the quartiles of MeHg concentration, taking the quartile 1 as reference. RESULTS The mean age of the participants was 38±14 years and the sample was composed of 132 men (42.2%) and 181 women (57.8%). MeHg geometric mean was 15.4 μg/L (95%CI: 13.9-17.0) and levels ranged from 0.8 to 112.0 μg/L. Resting HR increased linearly across quartiles of blood MeHg concentration after adjusting for confounders (p for trend=0.02). An increase of 6.9 beats per minute (bpm) between the 4th and 1st quartile was observed after adjusting for confounders. No significant association was observed between blood MeHg and systolic BP, diastolic BP or PP. CONCLUSIONS MeHg was associated with increasing resting HR after considering traditional risk factors as well as other contaminants (lead and total PCBs) and n-3 PUFAs. In contrast, no significant association with blood pressure was observed in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Valera
- Axe santé des populations et environnementale, Centre de recherche du CHUQ, Édifice Delta 2, 2875, boulevard Laurier, 6e étage, Sainte-Foy, Québec, Canada G1V 2M2.
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Gagné D, Lauzière J, Blanchet R, Vézina C, Vaissière E, Ayotte P, Turgeon O'Brien H. Consumption of tomato products is associated with lower blood mercury levels in Inuit preschool children. Food Chem Toxicol 2012; 51:404-10. [PMID: 23127601 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2012.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2012] [Revised: 10/12/2012] [Accepted: 10/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Some evidence suggests that various diet components and nutrients, including vegetables, fruit and food-derived antioxidants, could mitigate contaminant exposure and/or adverse health effects of contaminants. To examine the effect of the consumption of tomato products on blood mercury levels in Inuit preschool children, 155 Inuit children (25.0±9.1months) were recruited from 2006-2008 in Nunavik childcare centers (northern Québec, Canada). Food frequency questionnaires were completed at home and at the childcare center, and total blood mercury concentration was measured by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Multivariate regression analysis was performed after multiple imputation. The median blood concentration of mercury was 9.5nmol/L. Age, duration of breastfeeding, annual consumption frequency of seal meat, and monthly consumption frequency of tomato products were significant predictors of blood mercury levels, whereas annual consumption frequencies of beluga muktuk, walrus, Arctic char, and caribou meat were not. Each time a participant consumed tomato products during the month before the interview was associated with a 4.6% lower blood mercury level (p=0.0005). All other significant predictors in the model were positively associated with blood mercury levels. Further studies should explore interactions between consumption of healthy store-bought foods available in Arctic regions and contaminant exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Gagné
- Groupe d'études en nutrition publique, Département des sciences des aliments et de nutrition, Université Laval, Québec (Québec), Canada
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Valera B, Muckle G, Poirier P, Jacobson SW, Jacobson JL, Dewailly E. Cardiac autonomic activity and blood pressure among Inuit children exposed to mercury. Neurotoxicology 2012; 33:1067-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2012.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Green RE, Pain DJ. Potential health risks to adults and children in the UK from exposure to dietary lead in gamebirds shot with lead ammunition. Food Chem Toxicol 2012; 50:4180-90. [PMID: 22939931 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2012.08.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2012] [Revised: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
We estimate potential risks to human health in the UK from dietary exposure to lead from wild gamebirds killed by shooting. The main source of exposure to lead in Europe is now dietary. We used data on lead concentrations in UK gamebirds, from which gunshot had been removed following cooking to simulate human exposure to lead. We used UK food consumption and lead concentration data to evaluate the number of gamebird meals consumed weekly that would be expected, based upon published studies, to result in changes, over and above those resulting from exposure to lead in the base diet, in intelligence quotient (IQ), Systolic Blood Pressure and chronic kidney disease (CKD) considered in a recent opinion of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to be significant at a population level and also in SAT test scores and in rates of spontaneous abortion. We found the consumption of <1 meal of game a week may be associated with a one point reduction in IQ in children and 1.2-6.5 gamebird meals per week may be associated with the other effects. These results should help to inform the development of appropriate responses to the risks from ingesting lead from ammunition in game in the UK and European Union (EU).
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Green
- Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, United Kingdom.
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Sheppard AJ, Hetherington R. A decade of research in Inuit children, youth, and maternal health in Canada: areas of concentrations and scarcities. Int J Circumpolar Health 2012; 71:18383. [PMID: 22868191 PMCID: PMC3417531 DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v71i0.18383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2012] [Revised: 06/12/2012] [Accepted: 06/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inuit Canadians are on average about 20 years younger and have a 10-year lower life expectancy than other Canadians. While there have been improvements in Inuit health status over time, significant health disparities still remain. This paper will review the peer-reviewed literature related to Inuit child, youth, and maternal health between 2000 and 2010, investigate which thematic areas were examined, and determine what proportion of the research is related to each group. Establishing areas of research concentrations and scarcities may help direct future research where it is needed. We followed a systematic literature review and employed peer-reviewed research literature on child, youth, and maternal health which were selected from 3 sources, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and the Circumpolar Health Bibliographic Database. The resulting references were read, and summarized according to population group and thematic area. The thematic areas that emerged by frequency were: infectious disease; environment/environmental exposures; nutrition; birth outcomes; tobacco; chronic disease; health care; policy, human resources; interventions/programming; social determinants of health; mental health and wellbeing; genetics; injury; and dental health. The 72 papers that met the inclusion criteria were not mutually exclusive with respect to group studied. Fifty-nine papers (82%) concerned child health, 24 papers (33%) youth health, and 58 papers (81%) maternal health. The review documented high incidences of illness and significant public health problems; however, in the context of these issues, opportunities to develop research that could directly enhance health outcomes are explored.
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Couture A, Levesque B, Dewailly É, Muckle G, Déry S, Proulx JF. Lead exposure in Nunavik: from research to action. Int J Circumpolar Health 2012; 71:18591. [PMID: 22818717 PMCID: PMC3417507 DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v71i0.18591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2011] [Revised: 04/12/2012] [Accepted: 04/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In 1999, the Government of Canada regulated the use of lead shot for hunting. Concurrently, the Nunavik Regional Board of Health and Social Services (NRBHSS) was informed of the results of an isotope study that pointed to lead ammunition as a likely source of lead exposure in Nunavik. Rapidly thereafter, a coalition for the banning of lead shot was implemented by the NRBHSS as well as by regional/local partners and by Inuit hunters in order to disseminate this information to the public. Objectives The purpose of this article is to describe the intervention conducted in the winter of 1999 by the NRBHSS and to assess the combined impact of national legislation and an awareness campaign on blood lead levels in Nunavik. Study design Impact assessment of the intervention for the banning of lead shot conducted in 1999 in Nunavik using blood lead levels data before and after the intervention. Methods Data on blood lead levels in Nunavik describing foetal exposure as well as during childhood and in adults published between 1992 and 2009 were compiled. Blood lead levels in Nunavik prior to and after the interventions were compared. To assess the current situation, the most recent blood lead levels were compared with those from surveys conducted during the same period in North America. Results Analysis of blood samples collected from umbilical cord and from adults show that blood lead levels in Nunavik significantly declined between 1992 and 2004. Nevertheless, lead exposure in Nunavik still remains higher in comparison to that observed in other North American surveys. Conclusions The current situation regarding lead exposure in Nunavik has significantly improved as a result of the implemented intervention. However, according to recent data, a gap still subsists relative to other North American populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Couture
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, Canada.
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Wolkin A, Hunt D, Martin C, Caldwell KL, McGeehin MA. Blood mercury levels among fish consumers residing in areas with high environmental burden. CHEMOSPHERE 2012; 86:967-971. [PMID: 22153999 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2011.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2011] [Revised: 11/03/2011] [Accepted: 11/13/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Mercury is a ubiquitous, persistent toxicant found in the environment. In water, mercury bioaccumulates up the food chain and leads to high concentrations in fish. Consumption of contaminated fish is the major source of exposure to mercury in the US. The objective of this study was to enroll persons living in areas selected by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to have high mercury concentrations and who consume at least 6o z of locally caught fish per week to determine the feasibility of monitoring future trends among a population identified as highly exposed. Blood samples were collected at time of interview and analyzed for mercury. Participants (n=287) were enrolled from North Carolina, Maryland, and South Dakota. Participants reported eating an average of five servings of fish per week. The overall geometric mean for total mercury was 0.75 μg L(-1), with North Carolina having the highest mean level (2.02 μg L(-1)). Overall, 42% of the study population had levels greater than the US geometric mean 0.83 μg L(-1). The number of servings of fish consumed was not found to be associated with blood mercury levels. We were able to identify some persons with elevated mercury concentrations living in areas identified by EPA; however, identifying and monitoring a highly exposed population over time would be challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Wolkin
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Valera B, Dewailly E, Poirier P. Impact of mercury exposure on blood pressure and cardiac autonomic activity among Cree adults (James Bay, Quebec, Canada). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2011; 111:1265-1270. [PMID: 21962568 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2011.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Revised: 08/15/2011] [Accepted: 09/01/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Aboriginal populations from Quebec (Canada) are exposed to higher mercury levels than southern regions since these populations consume high quantities of fish. Epidemiological evidence suggests a detrimental impact of mercury on cardiovascular risk factors such as heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure (BP). The objective of this study was to assess the impact of mercury exposure on BP, resting heart rate (HR) and HRV among Cree adults. Data were collected among 791 adults≥18 years old living in seven communities of the James Bay. Blood mercury and hair levels were used as biomarkers of recent and long-term exposure. BP was measured through a standardised protocol while HRV was derived from a 2-h Holter monitoring assessment. The relationship between mercury and the outcomes was studied using ANOVA and ANCOVA analysis. Geometric mean of blood mercury and hair mercury concentration was 17.0 nmol/L (95%CI: 6.1-44.0) and 2.36 nmol/g (95%CI: 2.09-2.65); respectively. After adjusting for confounders, blood mercury was associated with HRV parameters such as LF (β=0.21, P=0.0002), HF (β=0.15, P=0.004) and LF/HF (β=0.06, P=0.003). Similar associations were observed with hair mercury. In contrast, no significant association was observed between blood mercury or hair mercury and BP after adjusting for confounders. In conclusion, mercury exposure seems to affect HRV among Cree adults even after considering fish nutrients (n-3 fatty acids and selenium) and other contaminants (lead and polychlorinated biphenyls) that are also present in the traditional diet of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Valera
- Axe Santé des Populations et Environnement, Centre de Recherche du CHUQ, Quebec (QC), Canada
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Moura JFD, Cardozo M, Belo MSDSP, Hacon S, Siciliano S. A interface da saúde pública com a saúde dos oceanos: produção de doenças, impactos socioeconômicos e relações benéficas. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2011; 16:3469-80. [DOI: 10.1590/s1413-81232011000900015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2008] [Accepted: 04/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nas últimas décadas, as atividades humanas têm causado forte impacto sobre o ambiente marinho, provocando alterações no seu processo ecológico. A relação entre a saúde dos oceanos, as atividades antropogênicas e a saúde pública já é consenso, entretanto, seus mecanismos ainda estão sob os olhares da ciência. Essas relações incluem o foco sobre as mudanças climáticas, florações de algas tóxicas, contaminação microbiológica e química nas águas marinhas e bioinvasão de espécies exóticas. Além disso, existe a relação dos valores benéficos que os oceanos proporcionam à saúde e bem-estar da humanidade, tais como produtos naturais relevantes para a alimentação humana, o desenvolvimento da biomedicina, ou simplesmente, a satisfação humana derivada da recreação, esportes e outras interações dos seres humanos com os oceanos. A importância de se conhecer a relação entre saúde pública e a saúde dos oceanos dá-se, principalmente, devido ao crescente número de pessoas vivendo em zonas costeiras, nas regiões tropicais e subtropicais, tendo como pano de fundo as atividades antropogênicas produtoras de risco para a saúde do ambiente marinho, aumento da vulnerabilidade do homem, da biodiversidade e da iniquidade socioambiental.
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Noisel N, Bouchard M, Carrier G, Plante M. Comparison of a toxicokinetic and a questionnaire-based approach to assess methylmercury intake in exposed individuals. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2011; 21:328-335. [PMID: 20502494 DOI: 10.1038/jes.2010.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2010] [Accepted: 04/16/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a neurotoxic contaminant and one of the main sources of exposure in humans is seafood consumption. It is thus of interest to assess precisely MeHg exposure. The objective of this study was to estimate MeHg daily intake in exposed individuals using two different approaches, a food questionnaire and toxicokinetic modeling, and compare the complementary and use of each method. For this purpose, a group of 23 fishermen from northern Quebec provided blood and hair samples and answered a standard food questionnaire focusing on seafood consumption. A published and validated toxicokinetic model was then used to reconstruct MeHg daily intakes from mercury (Hg) measurements in biological samples. These intakes were compared to those estimated using a standard food questionnaire on seafood consumption. Daily intakes of MeHg from seafood (mean/median (range)) estimated from hair concentrations with the toxicokinetic-based approach were 6.1/5.2 (0.0-19) μg/day. These intake values were on average six times lower than those estimated using a food questionnaire, that is, 49/32 (7.2-163) μg/day. No correlation was found between the toxicokinetic-based and the questionnaire estimates of MeHg daily intakes. Most of the MeHg intakes estimated with the food questionnaire (21/23) exceeded the US EPA RfD of 0.1 μg/kg bw/day, whereas only a small proportion (6/23) of modeled estimates exceeded the RfD. This study shows that human health risk estimates strongly depend on the chosen approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nolwenn Noisel
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, P.O. Box 6128, Main Station, Montreal, Quebec H3C3J7, Canada
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Ford JD, Beaumier M. Feeding the family during times of stress: experience and determinants of food insecurity in an Inuit community. THE GEOGRAPHICAL JOURNAL 2011; 177:44-61. [PMID: 21560272 DOI: 10.1111/j.1475-4959.2010.00374.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
This paper uses a mixed methods approach to characterise the experience of food insecurity among Inuit community members in Igloolik, Nunavut, and examine the conditions and processes that constrain access, availability, and quality of food. We conducted semi-structured interviews (n= 66) and focus groups (n= 10) with community members, and key informant interviews with local and territorial health professionals and policymakers (n= 19). The study indicates widespread experience of food insecurity. Even individuals and households who were food secure at the time of the research had experienced food insecurity in the recent past, with food insecurity largely transitory in nature. Multiple determinants of food insecurity operating over different spatial-temporal scales are identified, including food affordability and budgeting, food knowledge and preferences, food quality and availability, environmental stress, declining hunting activity, and the cost of harvesting. These determinants are operating in the context of changing livelihoods and climate change, which in many cases are exacerbating food insecurity, although high-order manifestations of food insecurity (that is, starvation) are no longer experienced.
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Potential hazard to human health from exposure to fragments of lead bullets and shot in the tissues of game animals. PLoS One 2010; 5:e10315. [PMID: 20436670 PMCID: PMC2859935 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0010315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2010] [Accepted: 03/25/2010] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lead is highly toxic to animals. Humans eating game killed using lead ammunition generally avoid swallowing shot or bullets and dietary lead exposure from this source has been considered low. Recent evidence illustrates that lead bullets fragment on impact, leaving small lead particles widely distributed in game tissues. Our paper asks whether lead gunshot pellets also fragment upon impact, and whether lead derived from spent gunshot and bullets in the tissues of game animals could pose a threat to human health. Methodology/Principal Findings Wild-shot gamebirds (6 species) obtained in the UK were X-rayed to determine the number of shot and shot fragments present, and cooked using typical methods. Shot were then removed to simulate realistic practice before consumption, and lead concentrations determined. Data from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate Statutory Surveillance Programme documenting lead levels in raw tissues of wild gamebirds and deer, without shot being removed, are also presented. Gamebirds containing ≥5 shot had high tissue lead concentrations, but some with fewer or no shot also had high lead concentrations, confirming X-ray results indicating that small lead fragments remain in the flesh of birds even when the shot exits the body. A high proportion of samples from both surveys had lead concentrations exceeding the European Union Maximum Level of 100 ppb w.w. (0.1 mg kg−1 w.w.) for meat from bovine animals, sheep, pigs and poultry (no level is set for game meat), some by several orders of magnitude. High, but feasible, levels of consumption of some species could result in the current FAO/WHO Provisional Weekly Tolerable Intake of lead being exceeded. Conclusions/Significance The potential health hazard from lead ingested in the meat of game animals may be larger than previous risk assessments indicated, especially for vulnerable groups, such as children, and those consuming large amounts of game.
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Valera B, Dewailly E, Poirier P. Environmental Mercury Exposure and Blood Pressure Among Nunavik Inuit Adults. Hypertension 2009; 54:981-6. [DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.109.135046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Valera
- From the Axe Santé des Populations et Environnement (B.V., É.D.), Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Quebec, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine (É.D.) and Faculty of Pharmacy (P.P.), Laval University, Quebec, Canada; Quebec Heart and Lung Institute (P.P.), Quebec, Canada
| | - Éric Dewailly
- From the Axe Santé des Populations et Environnement (B.V., É.D.), Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Quebec, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine (É.D.) and Faculty of Pharmacy (P.P.), Laval University, Quebec, Canada; Quebec Heart and Lung Institute (P.P.), Quebec, Canada
| | - Paul Poirier
- From the Axe Santé des Populations et Environnement (B.V., É.D.), Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec, Quebec, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine (É.D.) and Faculty of Pharmacy (P.P.), Laval University, Quebec, Canada; Quebec Heart and Lung Institute (P.P.), Quebec, Canada
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Iqbal S, Blumenthal W, Kennedy C, Yip FY, Pickard S, Flanders WD, Loringer K, Kruger K, Caldwell KL, Jean Brown M. Hunting with lead: association between blood lead levels and wild game consumption. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2009; 109:952-9. [PMID: 19747676 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2009.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2009] [Revised: 08/10/2009] [Accepted: 08/13/2009] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wild game hunting is a popular activity in many regions of the United States. Recently, the presence of lead fragments in wild game meat, presumably from the bullets or shot used for hunting, has raised concerns about health risks from meat consumption. OBJECTIVE This study examined the association between blood lead levels (PbB) and wild game consumption. METHODS We recruited 742 participants, aged 2-92 years, from six North Dakota cities. Blood lead samples were collected from 736 persons. Information on socio-demographic background, housing, lead exposure source, and types of wild game consumption (i.e., venison, other game such as moose, birds) was also collected. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to determine the association between PbB and wild game consumption. RESULTS Most participants reported consuming wild game (80.8%) obtained from hunting (98.8%). The geometric mean PbB were 1.27 and 0.84 microg/dl among persons who did and did not consume wild game, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, persons who consumed wild game had 0.30 microg/dl (95% confidence interval: 0.16-0.44 microg/dl) higher PbB than persons who did not. For all game types, recent (<1 month) wild game consumption was associated with higher PbB. PbB was also higher among those who consumed a larger serving size (> or = 2 oz vs. <2 oz); however, this association was significant for 'other game' consumption only. CONCLUSIONS Participants who consumed wild game had higher PbB than those who did not consume wild game. Careful review of butchering practices and monitoring of meat-packing processes may decrease lead exposure from wild game consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahed Iqbal
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Office of Workforce and Career Development, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Chamblee, GA 30341, USA.
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Valera B, Dewailly E, Poirier P. Cardiac autonomic activity and blood pressure among Nunavik Inuit adults exposed to environmental mercury: a cross-sectional study. Environ Health 2008; 7:29. [PMID: 18538022 PMCID: PMC2443124 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-7-29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2007] [Accepted: 06/06/2008] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mercury is a contaminant that reaches high levels in Nunavik (North of Quebec). It is transformed into methylmercury (MeHg) and accumulated in marine mammals and predator fish, an important part of the traditional Inuit diet. MeHg has been suggested to affect BP in adults and children while the influence on HRV has only been studied in children. We aimed to assess the impact of MeHg levels on HRV and BP in Inuit adults from Nunavik. METHODS In the fall of 2004, the <<Qanuippitaa?>> Health Survey was conducted in Nunavik (Quebec, Canada) and information on HRV was collected among 280 adults aged 40 years and older. Indicators of the time and frequency domains of HRV were derived from a 2-hour Holter recording. BP was measured according to the Canadian Coalition for High Blood Pressure technique. Pulse pressure (PP) was the difference between systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Blood mercury concentration was used as exposure biomarker. Statistical analysis was conducted through linear regression and multivariable linear regression was used to control for confounders. RESULTS Mercury was negatively correlated with low frequency (LF) (r = -0.18; p = 0.02), the standard deviation of RR intervals (SDNN) (r = -0.14; p = 0.047) and the coefficient of variation of RR intervals (CVRR) (r = -0.18; p = 0.011) while correlations with other HRV parameters did not reach statistical significance. After adjusting for confounders, the association with LF (beta = -0.006; p = 0.93) became non significant. However, the association with SDANN became statistically significant (beta = -0.086; p = 0.026) and CVRR tended to decrease with blood mercury concentrations (beta = -0.057; p = 0.056). Mercury was positively correlated with SBP (r = 0.25; p < 0.0001) and PP (r = 0.33; p < 0.0001). After adjusting for confounders, these associations remained statistically significant (beta SBP = 4.77; p = 0.01 and beta PP = 3.40; p = 0.0036). Moreover, most of the HRV parameters correlated well with BP although SBP the best before adjustment for mercury exposure. CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest a deleterious impact of mercury on BP and HRV in adults. SBP and PP increased with blood mercury concentrations while SDANN decreased with blood mercury concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Valera
- Public Health Research Unit, 2875 Boulevard Laurier, Édifice Delta 2, bureau 600, G1V 2M2, Quebec (Qc), Canada
| | - Eric Dewailly
- Public Health Research Unit, 2875 Boulevard Laurier, Édifice Delta 2, bureau 600, G1V 2M2, Quebec (Qc), Canada
| | - Paul Poirier
- Quebec Heart and Lung Institute, Laval Hospital Research Centre, 2725 Chemin Sainte-Foy, G1V 4G5, Québec (Qc), Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec (Qc), Canada
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Fontaine J, Dewailly É, Benedetti JL, Pereg D, Ayotte P, Déry S. Re-evaluation of blood mercury, lead and cadmium concentrations in the Inuit population of Nunavik (Québec): a cross-sectional study. Environ Health 2008; 7:25. [PMID: 18518986 PMCID: PMC2442064 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-7-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2007] [Accepted: 06/02/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arctic populations are exposed to mercury, lead and cadmium through their traditional diet. Studies have however shown that cadmium exposure is most often attributable to tobacco smoking. The aim of this study is to examine the trends in mercury, lead and cadmium exposure between 1992 and 2004 in the Inuit population of Nunavik (Northern Québec, Canada) using the data obtained from two broad scale health surveys, and to identify sources of exposure in 2004. METHODS In 2004, 917 adults aged between 18 and 74 were recruited in the 14 communities of Nunavik to participate to a broad scale health survey. Blood samples were collected and analysed for metals by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and dietary and life-style characteristics were documented by questionnaires. Results were compared with data obtained in 1992, where 492 people were recruited for a similar survey in the same population. RESULTS Mean blood concentration of mercury was 51.2 nmol/L, which represent a 32% decrease (p < 0.001) between 1992 and 2004. Mercury blood concentrations were mainly explained by age (partial r2 = 0.20; p < 0.0001), and the most important source of exposure to mercury was marine mammal meat consumption (partial r2 = 0.04; p < 0.0001). In 2004, mean blood concentration of lead was 0.19 mumol/L and showed a 55% decrease since 1992. No strong associations were observed with any dietary source, and lead concentrations were mainly explained by age (partial r2 = 0.20.; p < 0.001). Blood cadmium concentrations showed a 22% decrease (p < 0.001) between 1992 and 2004. Once stratified according to tobacco use, means varied between 5.3 nmol/L in never-smokers and 40.4 nmol/L in smokers. Blood cadmium concentrations were mainly associated with tobacco smoking (partial r2 = 0.56; p < 0.0001), while consumption of caribou liver and kidney remain a minor source of cadmium exposure among never-smokers. CONCLUSION Important decreases in mercury, lead and cadmium exposure were observed. Mercury decrease could be explained by dietary changes and the ban of lead cartridges use likely contributed to the decrease in lead exposure. Blood cadmium concentrations remain high and, underscoring the need for intensive tobacco smoking prevention campaigns in the Nunavik population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Fontaine
- Unité de recherche en Santé publique, Centre de recherche du CHUL-CHUQ, 2875 boul. Laurier, Bureau 600, Québec (Québec), G1V 2M2, Canada
| | - Éric Dewailly
- Unité de recherche en Santé publique, Centre de recherche du CHUL-CHUQ, 2875 boul. Laurier, Bureau 600, Québec (Québec), G1V 2M2, Canada
| | - Jean-Louis Benedetti
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec, 945, avenue Wolfe, Québec (Québec), G1V 5B3, Canada
| | - Daria Pereg
- Unité de recherche en Santé publique, Centre de recherche du CHUL-CHUQ, 2875 boul. Laurier, Bureau 600, Québec (Québec), G1V 2M2, Canada
| | - Pierre Ayotte
- Unité de recherche en Santé publique, Centre de recherche du CHUL-CHUQ, 2875 boul. Laurier, Bureau 600, Québec (Québec), G1V 2M2, Canada
| | - Serge Déry
- Regional Board of Health and Social Services of Nunavik, C.P. 900, Kuujjuaq (Québec), J0M 1C0, Canada
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Abstract
In many developed nations, the state of publicly administered health care is increasingly precarious as a result of escalating numbers of chronically ill patients, inadequate medical personnel and hospital facilities, as well as sparse funding for ongoing upgrades to state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic technology - an increased emphasis on aetiology-centred medicine should be considered in order to achieve improved health for patients and populations. Medical practice patterns which are designed to provide quick and effective amelioration of signs and symptoms are frequently not an enduring solution to many health afflictions and chronic disease states. Recent scientific discovery has rendered the drug-oriented algorithmic paradigm commonly found in contemporary evidence-based medicine to be a reductionist approach to clinical practice. Unfolding evidence appears to support a genetic predisposition model of health and illness rather than a fatalistic predestination construct - modifiable epigenetic and environmental factors have enormous potential to influence clinical outcomes. By understanding and applying fundamental clinical principles relating to the emerging fields of molecular medicine, nutrigenomics and human exposure assessment, doctors will be empowered to address causality of affliction when possible and achieve sustained reprieve for many suffering patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Genuis
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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Tsuji LJS, Wainman BC, Martin ID, Weber JP, Sutherland C, Liberda EN, Nieboer E. Elevated blood-lead levels in first nation people of Northern Ontario Canada: policy implications. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2008; 80:14-18. [PMID: 17917695 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-007-9281-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2007] [Accepted: 09/05/2007] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the preliminary impact of the Canadian "non-toxic" shotshell policy, for the hunting of migratory game birds, by examining blood-lead levels of First Nations people living in sub-arctic Canada. If the use of lead shotshell was the major source of lead exposure as has been postulated and the ban on the use of lead shotshell for hunting migratory birds was immediately effective, we would expect that blood-lead levels would be typical of a geographic area remote from industrialization. Our findings present some concern in that approximately 18% of the 196 First Nations people examined had blood-lead levels > or =100 microg/L.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J S Tsuji
- Department of Environment and Resource Studies, 200 University Ave. West, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada.
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Healey GK, Meadows LM. Inuit women's health in Nunavut, Canada: a review of the literature. Int J Circumpolar Health 2007; 66:199-214. [PMID: 17655061 DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v66i3.18256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Inuit women face challenging health and wellness issues in Northern communities. Literature examining these contexts and the processes through which health is affected is virtually non-existent. The objective [corrected] of this review is to examine and consolidate the available literature on Inuit women's health issues from the last decade in order to identify priorities for future research. STUDY DESIGN This study is a review of literature from the last decade. Inuit women's health issues that have been raised in the literature and in various reports are examined within a health-determinants framework. METHODS Government reports and statistics, publications by Inuit organizations and publications available on MEDLINE were examined for this review. RESULTS Inuit women's health is a crucial part of the health of their communities. Inuit women face serious health issues related to reproductive and sexual health, such as high rates of sexually transmitted infections and challenging circumstances surrounding childbirth. Wellness, suicide and stress are more significant issues for Inuit women compared with non-Inuit women. Food security and accessibility is an issue for all Northerners. Alcohol and substance abuse and exposure to violent situations endanger both the health and safety of Inuit women in many Northern communities. CONCLUSIONS There exists an urgent need to better understand the mechanisms through which determinants of health affect Inuit women. As well as adding to the body of knowledge on health determinants in Canada, further examining these issues will provide valuable information for health policy decision-makers and program development in the North and facilitate the direction of resources to the necessary areas of health services provision in Nunavut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwen K Healey
- Arctic Health Research Network, Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada.
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