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Peprah P, Kwarteng MA, Asiedu K, Agyemang-Duah W, Morgan AK, Adjei Gyimah A. Self-reported symptoms of ocular allergy and its comorbid factors among residents living near a landfill site in Ghana. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:386-397. [PMID: 35114879 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2031912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Residents close to landfill sites may be exposed to long-term emitted toxic compounds that may have effects on their eyes. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of symptomatic ocular allergy and its comorbid factors among residents living near a landfill site in Ghana. An exploratory cross-sectional design involving 400 inhabitants living around a landfill site was employed. The prevalence of symptomatic ocular allergy was 59.3%. In a bivariate analysis, comorbid conditions including respiratory disease, coughing, flu, cholera, skin disease, diarrhoea, and hypertension predicted symptomatic ocular allergy. However, only cholera remained a significant predictor of symptomatic ocular allergy in the multivariate analysis. Symptomatic ocular allergy was high among inhabitants around the landfill site in Ghana. While proper design and management of landfills in Ghana is crucial, further longitudinal and clinical studies are required to clinically establish the link between landfill and ocular allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prince Peprah
- Social Policy Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Kofi Asiedu
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Anthony Kwame Morgan
- Department of Geography and Rural Development, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Duan Z, Scheutz C, Kjeldsen P. Trace gas emissions from municipal solid waste landfills: A review. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2021; 119:39-62. [PMID: 33039980 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2020.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Trace gas emissions from municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills have received increasing attention in recent years. This paper reviews literature published between 1983 and 2019, focusing on (i) the origin and fate of trace gas in MSW landfills, (ii) sampling and analytical techniques, (iii) quantitative emission measurement techniques, (iv) concentration and surface emission rates of common trace compounds at different landfill units and (v) the environmental and health concerns associated with trace gas emissions from MSW landfills. Trace gases can be produced from waste degradation, direct volatilisation of chemicals in waste products or from conversions/reactions between other compounds. Different chemical groups dominate the different waste decomposition stages. In general, organic sulphur compounds and oxygenated compounds are connected with fresh waste, while abundant hydrogen sulphide, aromatics and aliphatic hydrocarbons are usually found during the methane fermentation stage. Selection of different sampling, analytical and emission rate measurement techniques might generate different results when quantifying trace gas emission from landfills, and validation tests are needed to evaluate the reliability of current methods. The concentrations of trace gases and their surface emission rates vary largely from site to site, and fresh waste dumping areas and uncovered waste surfaces are the most important fugitive emission sources. The adverse effects of trace gas emission are not fully understood, and more emission data are required in future studies to assess quantitatively their environmental impacts as well as health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhan Duan
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Scheutz
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Peter Kjeldsen
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
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Ibor OR, Andem AB, Eni G, Arong GA, Adeougn AO, Arukwe A. Contaminant levels and endocrine disruptive effects in Clarias gariepinus exposed to simulated leachate from a solid waste dumpsite in Calabar, Nigeria. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2020; 219:105375. [PMID: 31812827 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2019.105375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Solid waste dumpsites (SWDs) and landfills are significant sources of emerging contaminants to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. We have studied the endocrine disruptive effects of simulated leachate from a solid waste dumpsite in Calabar, Nigeria. Juvenile C. gariepinus were exposed to simulated leachate, diluted to 0:0 (control), 1:10, 1:50, 1:100 for 3, 7 and 14 days. In addition, 17β-estradiol (E2: 100 μg/L)-exposed positive control group was included. Hepatic transcripts for the genes encoding vitellogenin (vtg), estrogen receptor-α (er-α), and aromatase (cyp19a1) were analyzed by real-time PCR. Protein expression for Vtg and Cyp19 were measured by immunoblotting and plasma steroid hormones (testosterone: T and E2) were measured using enzyme immunoassay (EIA). Soil samples from the dumpsite were analyzed for selected group of contaminants showing that DEHP was the only detected phthalate ester (PE) at 1300 ± 400 ng/g. Further, perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) such as PFBS, PFOS, PFHxA, PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, PFUnDA and PFDoDA were detected in the soil samples from the dumpsite. We observed significant and apparent concentration-dependent increases in mRNA (vtg, er-α, and cyp19a1) and their corresponding functional protein products, after exposure to the simulated leachates. Further, the simulated leachate produced concentration-specific changes in plasma E2 and T levels. In general, the estrogenic endocrine and reproductive alterations in the exposed fish may directly be attributed to the PFASs and DEHP detected at the dumpsites. However, in addition to PFASs and DEHP, there could be other estrogenic contaminants in the leachate. Given the rapid utilization, for residential purposes, and increases in human settlement in areas around the Lemna SWDs, this study provides a direct cause-and-effect evidence of the potential contaminants at the dumpsite with significant environmental and human health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oju R Ibor
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria; Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Høgskoleringen 5, N-7491, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Andem B Andem
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - George Eni
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Gabriel A Arong
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | | | - Augustine Arukwe
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Høgskoleringen 5, N-7491, Trondheim, Norway.
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Abbasov R, Cervantes de Blois CL, Sharov P, Temnikova A, Karimov R, Karimova G. Toxic Site Identification Program in Azerbaijan. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2019; 64:794-808. [PMID: 31748949 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-019-01215-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The need to protect communities from hazardous waste is an important agenda for any nation. Although pollutant management and policy development are attempted in many developing countries, it is not always successful due to limited funds, project resources, and access to trained experts to conduct toxic site identification projects. For this reason, Pure Earth created the Toxic Site Identification Program (TSIP). The goal of the TSIP program is to provide reliable information and data that identifies location of toxic sites and the level of toxic severity. TSIP is significant because it provides developing countries a database of ranked toxic sites identified as hazardous risk to human health. For example, Azerbaijan is one of the most polluted post-Soviet nations, but has limited resources to address and manage its polluted sites. The Azerbaijani TSIP database is the first reliable data source that identifies hazardous pollutants in the country. Our study is significant because it discusses how the TSIP labels and ranks the level of toxic severity to human health. It is also the first data source in Azerbaijan that identifies which Soviet legacy toxic sites are affecting local communities. Although our study is specific to Azerbaijan, the TSIP method can be applied to nations with similar data limitations and the need for a database that identifies country specific environmental and hazardous locations. The data sampling method and results are mapped and accompanied by tables of the collected pollutant types to identify communities at greatest health-risk to legacy toxic sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rovshan Abbasov
- Department of Geography and Environment, Khazar University, 41 Mehseti Str, AZ1008, Baku, Azerbaijan.
| | - Chelsea L Cervantes de Blois
- Twin Cities Department of Geography, Environment & Society, University of Minnesota, 414 Social Science Building, 267 19th Ave S., Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Petr Sharov
- Blacksmith Institute (Pure Earth), 475 Riverside Drive, Suit 860, New York, NY, 10115, USA
| | - Alena Temnikova
- Far Eastern Federal University, 8 Sukhanova St., Vladivostok, 690090, Russia
| | - Rovshan Karimov
- Geography Institute, National Academy of Sciences, H. Javid pr. 115, AZ1143, Baku, Azerbaijan
| | - Gunay Karimova
- Department of Geography and Environment, Khazar University, 41 Mehseti Str, AZ1008, Baku, Azerbaijan
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Le M, Ghazawi FM, Alakel A, Netchiporouk E, Rahme E, Zubarev A, Powell M, Moreau L, Roshdy O, Glassman SJ, Sasseville D, Popradi G, Litvinov IV. Incidence and mortality trends and geographic patterns of follicular lymphoma in Canada. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 26:e473-e481. [PMID: 31548815 DOI: 10.3747/co.26.4625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Background Follicular lymphoma (fl) is the most common indolent lymphoma and the 2nd most common non-Hodgkin lymphoma, accounting for 10%-20% of all lymphomas in the Western world. Epidemiologic and geographic trends of fl in Canada have not been investigated. Our study's objective was to analyze incidence and mortality rates and the geographic distribution of fl patients in Canada for 1992-2010. Methods Demographic and geographic patient data for fl cases were obtained using the Canadian Cancer Registry, the Registre québécois du cancer, and the Canadian Vital Statistics database. Incidence and mortality rates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated per year and per geographic area. Rates were plotted using linear regression models to assess trends over time. Overall data were mapped using Microsoft Excel mapping software (Redmond, WA, U.S.A.) to identify case clusters across Canada. Results Approximately 22,625 patients were diagnosed with fl during 1992-2010. The age-standardized incidence rate of this malignancy in Canada was 38.3 cases per million individuals per year. Geographic analysis demonstrated that a number of Maritime provinces and Manitoba had the highest incidence rates, and that the provinces of Nova Scotia and Quebec had the highest mortality rates in the nation. Regional data demonstrated clustering of fl within cities or regions with high herbicide use, primary mining, and a strong manufacturing presence. Conclusions Our study provides a comprehensive overview of the fl burden and its geographic distribution in Canada. Regional clustering of this disease in concentrated industrial zones strongly suggests that multiple environmental factors might play a crucial role in the development of this lymphoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Le
- Division of Dermatology, McGill University, Montreal, QC
| | - F M Ghazawi
- Division of Dermatology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON
| | - A Alakel
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON
| | - E Netchiporouk
- Division of Dermatology, McGill University, Montreal, QC
| | - E Rahme
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, McGill University, Montreal, QC
| | - A Zubarev
- Division of Dermatology, McGill University, Montreal, QC
| | - M Powell
- Division of Dermatology, McGill University, Montreal, QC
| | - L Moreau
- Division of Dermatology, McGill University, Montreal, QC
| | - O Roshdy
- Division of Dermatology, McGill University, Montreal, QC
| | - S J Glassman
- Division of Dermatology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON
| | - D Sasseville
- Division of Dermatology, McGill University, Montreal, QC
| | - G Popradi
- Division of Hematology, McGill University, Montreal, QC
| | - I V Litvinov
- Division of Dermatology, McGill University, Montreal, QC.,Division of Dermatology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON
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Detection and Geometrical Characterization of a Buried Landfill Site by Integrating Land Use Historical Analysis, Digital Photogrammetry and Airborne Lidar Data. GEOSCIENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/geosciences8090348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abandoned quarries are frequently used as sites of illegal dumping of solid urban waste. These sites often occur nearby or within urban areas so that their detection may turn out to be quite difficult from the surface. This study focuses on the detection and geometrical characterization of a hidden landfill site located along the coastline of the Campi Flegrei, near Naples, Italy. Our approach is based on the analysis of historical topographic maps and aerial photographs, coupled with quantitative comparison of multitemporal digital elevation models obtained by digital photogrammetry and lidar techniques. The comparative analysis of topographic maps and aerial photos clearly shows modifications of the landscape associated with the urban development and quarrying activity, as well as the later filling of the quarry. The change detection analysis reveals that remarkable elevation changes occurred in the study area between 1956 and 2008. The average thickness of the landfill deposits is ca. 8 m, whereas the average volume is ca. 100,000 m3. The results of this work confirm the suitability of the used methodological approach that combines both qualitative and quantitative techniques for the detection of buried landfill sites. The geometric characterization of a landfill represents a fitting starting point for the further planning of geophysical site surveys and direct investigations aimed at the assessment of environmental hazards.
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Ewenighi CO, Dimkpa U, Onyeanusi JC, Babtunde A, Onoh LUM, Onoh GO, Ezeugwu U. Prostate-specific antigen and its derivatives in young adults occupationally exposed to quarry pollutants in southeastern Nigeria. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH 2017; 72:258-263. [PMID: 27362426 DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2016.1207593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
To evaluate the level of total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and effect of duration of exposure to pollutants in quarry workers, 5 mls of blood sample was collected from participants: 72 male quarry workers exposed to quarry pollutants and 72 unexposed controls. PSA estimations were done using the principle of ELISA. Mean total PSA, free PSA, and free-total PSA ratio levels of quarry workers did not differ from those of controls and was below the cutoff for the risk of prostate diseases. Higher mean total PSA and free PSA were observed in workers exposed for > 3 years compared to the unexposed control and workers exposed for ≤ 3 years. Age-adjusted linear regression indicated significant association (R = 0.515; p < .001) between the duration of exposure and total PSA level in quarry workers. This study suggests that longer duration of exposure to the quarry pollutants may elevate PSA level if precautions are not taken to minimize dose of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinwe O Ewenighi
- a Department of Medical Laboratory Science , Ebonyi State University , Abakaliki , Ebonyi State , Nigeria
| | - Uchechukwu Dimkpa
- b Department of Physiology , Nnewi Campus, Nnamdi Azikiwe University , Awka , Anambra State , Nigeria
| | - Joel C Onyeanusi
- a Department of Medical Laboratory Science , Ebonyi State University , Abakaliki , Ebonyi State , Nigeria
| | - Adejumo Babtunde
- c Department of Medical Laboratory Science , Faculty of Health Science, University of Benin , Benin City , Nigeria
| | - Linus U M Onoh
- d Department of Community Medicine , Enugu State University of Science and Technology , Enugu , Enugu State , Nigeria
| | - Gladys O Onoh
- e Department of Nursing Science , Ebonyi State University , Abakaliki , Ebonyi State , Nigeria
| | - Uchechukwu Ezeugwu
- f Department of Physiotherapy , University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital , Enugu , Enugu State , Nigeria
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Ncube F, Ncube EJ, Voyi K. A systematic critical review of epidemiological studies on public health concerns of municipal solid waste handling. Perspect Public Health 2016; 137:102-108. [PMID: 27013542 DOI: 10.1177/1757913916639077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The ultimate aim of this review was to summarise the epidemiological evidence on the association between municipal solid waste management operations and health risks to populations residing near landfills and incinerators, waste workers and recyclers. To accomplish this, the sub-aims of this review article were to (1) examine the health risks posed by municipal solid waste management activities, (2) determine the strengths and gaps of available literature on health risks from municipal waste management operations and (3) suggest possible research needs for future studies. METHODS The article reviewed epidemiological literature on public health concerns of municipal solid waste handling published in the period 1995-2014. The PubMed and MEDLINE computerised literature searches were employed to identify the relevant papers using the keywords solid waste, waste management, health risks, recycling, landfills and incinerators. Additionally, all references of potential papers were examined to determine more articles that met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS A total of 379 papers were identified, but after intensive screening only 72 met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Of these studies, 33 were on adverse health effects in communities living near waste dumpsites or incinerators, 24 on municipal solid waste workers and 15 on informal waste recyclers. Reviewed studies were unable to demonstrate a causal or non-causal relationship due to various limitations. CONCLUSION In light of the above findings, our review concludes that overall epidemiological evidence in reviewed articles is inadequate mainly due to methodological limitations and future research needs to develop tools capable of demonstrating causal or non-causal relationships between specific waste management operations and adverse health endpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- France Ncube
- University of Pretoria, Private Bag 323, Pretoria 0007, South Africa
| | | | - Kuku Voyi
- University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Marfe G, Di Stefano C. The evidence of toxic wastes dumping in Campania, Italy. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2016; 105:84-91. [PMID: 27424919 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2016.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The region of Campania (particularly Naples and Caserta) were subjected to extensive illegal dumping operations of toxic and radioactive wastes since the 1980s. The highly toxic wastes (HTW) dumping operations that have taken place both along the coast and the hinterland, have extremely adverse effects on health, livelihoods and the future prospect of sustainable development of the local population. The toxic wastes dumping in Campania is real and it has compromised (irreversibly) the human health, natural environment, food security and the long-term development prospects of the affected population. To reverse this tragic trend, it is necessery the identification, isolation and reclamation of the polluted sites and full assessment of the nature and the scale of the polluting chemicals and other hazardous wastes. The purpose of this review is to contribute significantly to the available evidence of the long-running toxic waste dumping in Campania and its negative impact on the health of population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Marfe
- Department of Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Second University of Naples, via Vivaldi 43, Caserta 81100, Italy.
| | - Carla Di Stefano
- Department of Hematology, "Tor Vergata" University, Viale Oxford 81, 00133 Rome, Italy.
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Mataloni F, Badaloni C, Golini MN, Bolignano A, Bucci S, Sozzi R, Forastiere F, Davoli M, Ancona C. Morbidity and mortality of people who live close to municipal waste landfills: a multisite cohort study. Int J Epidemiol 2016; 45:806-15. [PMID: 27222499 PMCID: PMC5005946 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyw052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The evidence on the health effects related to residing close to landfills is controversial. Nine landfills for municipal waste have been operating in the Lazio region (Central Italy) for several decades. We evaluated the potential health effects associated with contamination from landfills using the estimated concentration of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) as exposure. METHODS A cohort of residents within 5 km of landfills was enrolled (subjects resident on 1 January 1996 and those who subsequently moved into the areas until 2008) and followed for mortality and hospitalizations until 31 December 2012. Assessment of exposure to the landfill (H2S as a tracer) was performed for each subject at enrolment, using a Lagrangian dispersion model. Information on several confounders was available (gender, age, socioeconomic position, outdoor PM10 concentration, and distance from busy roads and industries). Cox regression analysis was performed [Hazard Ratios (HRs), 95% confidence intervals (CIs)]. RESULTS The cohort included 242 409 individuals. H2S exposure was associated with mortality from lung cancer and respiratory diseases (e.g. HR for increment of 1 ng/m(3) H2S: 1.10, 95% CI 1.02-1.19; HR 1.09, 95% CI 1.00-1.19, respectively). There were also associations between H2S and hospitalization for respiratory diseases (HR = 1.02, 95% CI 1.00-1.03), especially acute respiratory infections among children (0-14 years) (HR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.02-1.11). CONCLUSIONS Exposure to H2S, a tracer of airborne contamination from landfills, was associated with lung cancer mortality as well as with mortality and morbidity for respiratory diseases. The link with respiratory disease is plausible and coherent with previous studies, whereas the association with lung cancer deserves confirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Badaloni
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Simone Bucci
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Marina Davoli
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Ancona
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Rome, Italy
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Di Ciaula A. Increased deaths from gastric cancer in communities living close to waste landfills. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2016; 26:281-90. [PMID: 26540187 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2015.1109069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Municipal waste landfills (MWLs) have been linked with some malignancies, but data about gastric cancer (GC) are still uncertain. METHODS Number of deaths from GC, death rates, and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated considering all residents in the 258 towns in the Apulia Region (4,099,547 subjects, years 2006-2009), living within 3 km from each of the 16 regional MWLs (n = 716,404) or in control areas (n = 3,383,143). RESULTS Males living close to MWLs showed a higher death rate for GC, a twofold higher mean number of GC deaths and higher adjusted ORs of GC, compared with controls areas. CONCLUSIONS In a large population and over a wide time period, an increased risk of death from GC has been shown in males living in communities close to MWLs. Primary prevention policies acting through more sustainable waste management might probably partially reduce deaths from GC in areas with MWLs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agostino Di Ciaula
- a Division of Internal Medicine, Hospital of Bisceglie (BAT) Italy ; International Society of Doctors for Environment (ISDE) , Arezzo , Italy
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12
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Czarnota J, Gennings C, Colt JS, De Roos AJ, Cerhan JR, Severson RK, Hartge P, Ward MH, Wheeler DC. Analysis of Environmental Chemical Mixtures and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Risk in the NCI-SEER NHL Study. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2015; 123:965-70. [PMID: 25748701 PMCID: PMC4590749 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1408630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are several suspected environmental risk factors for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). The associations between NHL and environmental chemical exposures have typically been evaluated for individual chemicals (i.e., one-by-one). OBJECTIVES We determined the association between a mixture of 27 correlated chemicals measured in house dust and NHL risk. METHODS We conducted a population-based case-control study of NHL in four National Cancer Institute-Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results centers--Detroit, Michigan; Iowa; Los Angeles County, California; and Seattle, Washington--from 1998 to 2000. We used weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression to model the association of a mixture of chemicals and risk of NHL. The WQS index was a sum of weighted quartiles for 5 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 7 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and 15 pesticides. We estimated chemical mixture weights and effects for study sites combined and for each site individually, and also for histologic subtypes of NHL. RESULTS The WQS index was statistically significantly associated with NHL overall [odds ratio (OR) = 1.30; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.56; p = 0.006; for one quartile increase] and in the study sites of Detroit (OR = 1.71; 95% CI: 1.02, 2.92; p = 0.045), Los Angeles (OR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.00, 2.08; p = 0.049), and Iowa (OR = 1.76; 95% CI: 1.23, 2.53; p = 0.002). The index was marginally statistically significant in Seattle (OR = 1.39; 95% CI: 0.97, 1.99; p = 0.071). The most highly weighted chemicals for predicting risk overall were PCB congener 180 and propoxur. Highly weighted chemicals varied by study site; PCBs were more highly weighted in Detroit, and pesticides were more highly weighted in Iowa. CONCLUSIONS An index of chemical mixtures was significantly associated with NHL. Our results show the importance of evaluating chemical mixtures when studying cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Czarnota
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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Ancona C, Badaloni C, Mataloni F, Bolignano A, Bucci S, Cesaroni G, Sozzi R, Davoli M, Forastiere F. Mortality and morbidity in a population exposed to multiple sources of air pollution: A retrospective cohort study using air dispersion models. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 137:467-74. [PMID: 25701728 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2014.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Revised: 10/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS A landfill, an incinerator, and a refinery plant have been operating since the early 1960s in a contaminated site located in the suburb of Rome (Italy). To evaluate their potential health effects, a population-based retrospective cohort study was conducted using dispersion modeling for exposure assessment. METHODS A fixed cohort was enrolled in the Rome Longitudinal Study in 2001, mortality and hospitalizations were followed-up until 2010. Exposure assessments to the landfill (H2S), the incinerator (PM10), and the refinery plant (SOX) were performed for each subject using a Lagrangian dispersion model. Individual and small-area variables were available (including exposures levels to NO2 from traffic and diesel trucks). Cox regression analysis was performed (hazard ratios, HRs, 95% CI) using linear terms for the exposures (5th-95th percentiles difference). Single and bi-pollutant models were run. RESULTS The cohort included 85,559 individuals. The estimated annual average exposures levels were correlated. H2S from the landfill was associated with cardiovascular hospital admissions in both genders (HR 1.04 95% CI 1.00-1.09 in women); PM10 from the incinerator was associated with pancreatic cancer mortality in both genders (HR 1.40 95% CI 1.03-1.90 in men, HR 1.47 95% CI 1.12-1.93 in women) and with breast morbidity in women (HR 1.13 95% CI 1.00-1.27). SOx from the refinery was associated with laryngeal cancer mortality in women (HR 4.99 95% CI 1.64-15.9) and respiratory hospital admissions (HR 1.13 95% CI 1.01-1.27). CONCLUSIONS We found an association of the pollution sources with some cancer forms and cardio-respiratory diseases. Although there was a high correlation between the estimated exposures, an indication of specific effects from the different sources emerged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Ancona
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Santa Costanza 53, 00198 Rome, Italy.
| | - Chiara Badaloni
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Santa Costanza 53, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Mataloni
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Santa Costanza 53, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Bolignano
- Lazio Environmental Protection Agency, Via Boncompagni 101, 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Bucci
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Santa Costanza 53, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Cesaroni
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Santa Costanza 53, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Sozzi
- Lazio Environmental Protection Agency, Via Boncompagni 101, 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Marina Davoli
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Santa Costanza 53, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Forastiere
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Via Santa Costanza 53, 00198 Rome, Italy
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Pukkala E. A follow-up of cancer incidence among former Finnish dump site residents: 1999-2011. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2014; 20:313-7. [PMID: 25224807 DOI: 10.1179/2049396714y.0000000080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In an analysis of the years 1976-1998, a 50% excess in cancer incidence was observed among residents in twelve blockhouses in Helsinki, Finland on a former dump area containing industrial and household waste. OBJECTIVE To assess cancer risk over a 13-year period 1999-2011 among residents formerly living in houses built on a dump area. METHODS All 1879 persons who ever lived in the former dump area were identified and the number of cancer cases in this population was obtained from the Finnish Cancer Registry. RESULTS After 5 years of residence at the dump site, the standardized incidence ratio of cancer (all sites combined) was 1·32 (95% CI: 0·94-1·79) in men and 0·53 (95% CI: 0·33-0·82) for women, in comparison with the general Helsinki population (1999-2011). No significant excess cancer risks were found. CONCLUSIONS Residing on a former dump area was not found to result in an increased risk of cancer.
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Health effects associated with the disposal of solid waste in landfills and incinerators in populations living in surrounding areas: a systematic review. Int J Public Health 2013; 58:725-35. [PMID: 23887611 DOI: 10.1007/s00038-013-0496-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2013] [Revised: 06/26/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Potential health hazards for the environment and people living nearby landfills and incinerators are claimed to be related to several methods of waste management. Independent systematic review of the scientific literature is a key procedure to support the lay public and policy makers to achieve informed decisions. METHODS The study design and potential biases of papers retrieved in this comprehensive literature search were analyzed. RESULTS The most consistent result is that the risks of congenital anomalies and hospitalization due to respiratory disease are likely to be real nearby special waste landfills. From the very little information on exclusively urban waste depots it is reasonable to say that correct management of landfill does not increase the risk of these health effects. It is confirmed that historically incinerators are an important source of pollution and harm for the health of populations living nearby; however, changes in technology are producing more reassuring results. CONCLUSIONS A moderate level of confidence is possible in limited areas of knowledge, implying the need to overcome the limitations of current studies about exposure assessment and to control confounders at the individual level.
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Gouveia N. [Solid urban waste: socio-environmental impacts and prospects for sustainable management with social inclusion]. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2012; 17:1503-10. [PMID: 22699641 DOI: 10.1590/s1413-81232012000600014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Accepted: 04/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Strategies to reconcile development with the protection of ecosystems will yet again be discussed at the forthcoming Rio +20 Summit. The management of solid urban waste is an issue which has barely been touched upon in such discussions. Given the institutionalization of the National Solid Waste Policy, this paper seeks to contribute to this debate and to single out alternatives to tackle this issue with an emphasis on social inclusion. For this purpose, specialized scientific literature was consulted as well as information on solid waste management. It is clearly seen that inadequate management of solid waste has immediate impacts on the environment and health, and contributes to climate change. Considering the limitations of the current options for waste disposal, it is essential to minimize the quantities produced by reducing, reusing and recycling. In this context, the role of independent waste gatherers who have been conducting work of great environmental importance is highlighted. Given the vulnerabilities of this population, it is necessary to devise public policies to ensure that waste gathering is a more respected and less risky activity that guarantees an income, so as to move towards more healthy, equitable and sustainable development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Gouveia
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, 01246-903 São Paulo, SP.
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Wheeler DC, De Roos AJ, Cerhan JR, Morton LM, Severson R, Cozen W, Ward MH. Spatial-temporal analysis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in the NCI-SEER NHL case-control study. Environ Health 2011; 10:63. [PMID: 21718483 PMCID: PMC3148953 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-10-63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2011] [Accepted: 06/30/2011] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exploring spatial-temporal patterns of disease incidence through cluster analysis identifies areas of significantly elevated or decreased risk, providing potential clues about disease risk factors. Little is known about the etiology of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), or the latency period that might be relevant for environmental exposures, and there are no published spatial-temporal cluster studies of NHL. METHODS We conducted a population-based case-control study of NHL in four National Cancer Institute (NCI)-Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) centers: Detroit, Iowa, Los Angeles, and Seattle during 1998-2000. Using 20-year residential histories, we used generalized additive models adjusted for known risk factors to model spatially the probability that an individual had NHL and to identify clusters of elevated or decreased NHL risk. We evaluated models at five different time periods to explore the presence of clusters in a time frame of etiologic relevance. RESULTS The best model fit was for residential locations 20 years prior to diagnosis in Detroit, Iowa, and Los Angeles. We found statistically significant areas of elevated risk of NHL in three of the four study areas (Detroit, Iowa, and Los Angeles) at a lag time of 20 years. The two areas of significantly elevated risk in the Los Angeles study area were detected only at a time lag of 20 years. Clusters in Detroit and Iowa were detected at several time points. CONCLUSIONS We found significant spatial clusters of NHL after allowing for disease latency and residential mobility. Our results show the importance of evaluating residential histories when studying spatial patterns of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Wheeler
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anneclaire J De Roos
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Lindsay M Morton
- Radiation Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, NCI, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Richard Severson
- Department of Family Medicine and Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Wendy Cozen
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Pathology, and Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, USC Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mary H Ward
- Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Bethesda, MD, USA
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Missohou A, Mbodj M, Zanga D, Niang S, Sylla KSB, Seydi M, Cissé O, Seck SW. Analysis of microbiological and chemical quality of poultry meat in the vicinity of the Mbeubeuss landfill in Malika (Senegal). Trop Anim Health Prod 2011; 43:983-8. [PMID: 21327860 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-011-9795-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A total of 100 samples of poultry meat were collected in poultry farms in the vicinity of the Mbeubeuss landfill in the Niayes (Senegal) for microbiological and chemical analysis. Fifty-four (54) samples were collected in farms located less than 1 km from the landfill and 46 samples were collected in farms located a bit further (more than 1 km from the landfill). Microbiological quality was determined using techniques recommended by Association Française de Normalisation (AFNOR). Lead and cadmium concentration in poultry meat was measured by flame spectrometry while total mercury was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Three percent (3%) of the samples' quality were unsatisfactory for E. coli, 1% for Staphylococci and 7% for Salmonella spp. Poor meat quality was found either in farms located less than 1 km of the landfill or in farms located at more than 1 km of the landfill. Except for Salmonella, only meat samples from poultry receiving drinking water from well showed unsatisfactory microbiological quality. The samples were free of cadmium and lead but were contaminated by mercury. Sixty-eight percent (68%) of the samples contained mercury with a high contamination level (>0.011 mg/kg) in 20% of the samples. No significant difference was found between the farms that were nearest to and further away from the landfill while the source of drinking water seemed to be the main cause of contamination of poultry meat by mercury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayao Missohou
- Service de Zootechnie-Alimentation, Ecole Inter-Etats des Sciences et Médecine Vétérinaires, Dakar, Sénégal.
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Gouveia N, Prado RRD. Health risks in areas close to urban solid waste landfill sites. Rev Saude Publica 2010; 44:859-66. [PMID: 20882262 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89102010005000029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2009] [Accepted: 04/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between living close to solid waste landfill sites and occurrences of cancer and congenital malformations among populations in their vicinity. METHODS Deaths among people living in the municipality of São Paulo, Southeastern Brazil, between 1998 and 2002 were selected and geocoded, according to selected causes. Over the period evaluated, there were 351 deaths due to liver cancer, 160 due to bladder cancer and 224 due to leukemia, among adults, 25 due to childhood leukemia and 299 due to congenital malformation, in areas close to landfill sites. Buffer zones of radius 2 km around the 15 sites delimited the areas exposed. Standardized mortality ratios for each outcome were analyzed in Bayesian spatial models. RESULTS In a general manner, the highest values for the standardized mortality ratios were found in more central areas of the municipality, while the landfill sites were located in more peripheral areas. The standardized mortality ratios did not indicate any excess risk for people living in areas close to solid waste landfill sites in the municipality of São Paulo. For landfill sites in operation, there was a greater risk of bladder and liver cancer, and death due to congenital malformation, but without statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS No increase in the risk of cancer or congenital malformations was found in areas in the vicinity of urban waste dumps in the municipality of São Paulo. The weak associations and the imprecision of the estimates obtained did not allow any causal relationship to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Gouveia
- Departamento de Medicina, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.
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Porta D, Milani S, Lazzarino AI, Perucci CA, Forastiere F. Systematic review of epidemiological studies on health effects associated with management of solid waste. Environ Health 2009; 8:60. [PMID: 20030820 PMCID: PMC2805622 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-8-60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2009] [Accepted: 12/23/2009] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Management of solid waste (mainly landfills and incineration) releases a number of toxic substances, most in small quantities and at extremely low levels. Because of the wide range of pollutants, the different pathways of exposure, long-term low-level exposure, and the potential for synergism among the pollutants, concerns remain about potential health effects but there are many uncertainties involved in the assessment. Our aim was to systematically review the available epidemiological literature on the health effects in the vicinity of landfills and incinerators and among workers at waste processing plants to derive usable excess risk estimates for health impact assessment. METHODS We examined the published, peer-reviewed literature addressing health effects of waste management between 1983 and 2008. For each paper, we examined the study design and assessed potential biases in the effect estimates. We evaluated the overall evidence and graded the associated uncertainties. RESULTS In most cases the overall evidence was inadequate to establish a relationship between a specific waste process and health effects; the evidence from occupational studies was not sufficient to make an overall assessment. For community studies, at least for some processes, there was limited evidence of a causal relationship and a few studies were selected for a quantitative evaluation. In particular, for populations living within two kilometres of landfills there was limited evidence of congenital anomalies and low birth weight with excess risk of 2 percent and 6 percent, respectively. The excess risk tended to be higher when sites dealing with toxic wastes were considered. For populations living within three kilometres of old incinerators, there was limited evidence of an increased risk of cancer, with an estimated excess risk of 3.5 percent. The confidence in the evaluation and in the estimated excess risk tended to be higher for specific cancer forms such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and soft tissue sarcoma than for other cancers. CONCLUSIONS The studies we have reviewed suffer from many limitations due to poor exposure assessment, ecological level of analysis, and lack of information on relevant confounders. With a moderate level confidence, however, we have derived some effect estimates that could be used for health impact assessment of old landfill and incineration plants. The uncertainties surrounding these numbers should be considered carefully when health effects are estimated. It is clear that future research into the health risks of waste management needs to overcome current limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Porta
- Department of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service Lazio Region, Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Milani
- Department of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service Lazio Region, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio I Lazzarino
- Department of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service Lazio Region, Rome, Italy
- Division of Epidemiology, Public Health and Primary Care, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Carlo A Perucci
- Department of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service Lazio Region, Rome, Italy
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Guerriero C, Cairns J. The potential monetary benefits of reclaiming hazardous waste sites in the Campania region: an economic evaluation. Environ Health 2009; 8:28. [PMID: 19552811 PMCID: PMC2711922 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-8-28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2009] [Accepted: 06/24/2009] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evaluating the economic benefit of reducing negative health outcomes resulting from waste management is of pivotal importance for designing an effective waste policy that takes into account the health consequences for the populations exposed to environmental hazards. Despite the high level of Italian and international media interest in the problem of hazardous waste in Campania little has been done to reclaim the land and the waterways contaminated by hazardous waste. OBJECTIVE This study aims to reduce the uncertainty about health damage due to waste exposure by providing for the first time a monetary valuation of health benefits arising from the reclamation of hazardous waste dumps in Campania. METHODS First the criteria by which the landfills in the Campania region, in particular in the two provinces of Naples and Caserta, have been classified are described. Then, the annual cases of premature death and fatal cases of cancers attributable to waste exposure are quantified. Finally, the present value of the health benefits from the reclamation of polluted land is estimated for each of the health outcomes (premature mortality, fatal cancer and premature mortality adjusted for the cancer premium). Due to the uncertainty about the time frame of the benefits arising from reclamation, the latency of the effects of toxic waste on human health and the lack of context specific estimates of the Value of Preventing a Fatality (VPF), extensive sensitivity analyses are performed. RESULTS There are estimated to be 848 cases of premature mortality and 403 cases of fatal cancer per year as a consequence of exposure to toxic waste. The present value of the benefit of reducing the number of waste associated deaths after adjusting for a cancer premium is euro11.6 billion. This value ranges from euro5.4 to euro20.0 billion assuming a time frame for benefits of 10 and 50 years respectively. CONCLUSION This study suggests that there is a strong economic argument for both reclaiming the land contaminated with hazardous waste in the two provinces of Naples and Caserta and increasing the control of the territory in order to avoid the creation of new illegal dump sites.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John Cairns
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Marconato L, Leo C, Girelli R, Salvi S, Abramo F, Bettini G, Comazzi S, Nardi P, Albanese F, Zini E. Association between Waste Management and Cancer in Companion Animals. J Vet Intern Med 2009; 23:564-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2009.0278.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Russi MB, Borak JB, Cullen MR. An examination of cancer epidemiology studies among populations living close to toxic waste sites. Environ Health 2008; 7:32. [PMID: 18578889 PMCID: PMC2443363 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-7-32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2007] [Accepted: 06/26/2008] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxic waste sites contain a broad range of suspected or confirmed human carcinogens, and remain a source of concern to many people, particularly those living in the vicinity of a site. Despite years of study, a consensus has not emerged regarding the cancer risk associated with such sites. METHODS We examined the published, peer-reviewed literature addressing cancer incidence or mortality in the vicinity of toxic waste sites between 1980 and 2006, and catalogued the methods employed by such studies. RESULTS Nineteen studies are described with respect to eight methodological criteria. Most were ecological, with minimal utilization of hydrogeological or air pathway modeling. Many did not catalogue whether a potable water supply was contaminated, and very few included contaminant measurements at waste sites or in subjects' homes. Most studies did not appear to be responses to a recognized cancer mortality cluster. Studies were highly variable with respect to handling of competing risk factors and multiple comparisons. CONCLUSION We conclude that studies to date have generated hypotheses, but have been of limited utility in determining whether populations living near toxic waste sites are at increased cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark B Russi
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine Program, Yale University School of Medicine, 135 College Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Jonathan B Borak
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine Program, Yale University School of Medicine, 135 College Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Mark R Cullen
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine Program, Yale University School of Medicine, 135 College Street, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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Norton JM, Wing S, Lipscomb HJ, Kaufman JS, Marshall SW, Cravey AJ. Race, wealth, and solid waste facilities in North Carolina. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2007; 115:1344-50. [PMID: 17805426 PMCID: PMC1964896 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.10161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2007] [Accepted: 07/06/2007] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concern has been expressed in North Carolina that solid waste facilities may be disproportionately located in poor communities and in communities of color, that this represents an environmental injustice, and that solid waste facilities negatively impact the health of host communities. OBJECTIVE Our goal in this study was to conduct a statewide analysis of the location of solid waste facilities in relation to community race and wealth. METHODS We used census block groups to obtain racial and economic characteristics, and information on solid waste facilities was abstracted from solid waste facility permit records. We used logistic regression to compute prevalence odds ratios for 2003, and Cox regression to compute hazard ratios of facilities issued permits between 1990 and 2003. RESULTS The adjusted prevalence odds of a solid waste facility was 2.8 times greater in block groups with > or = 50% people of color compared with block groups with < 10% people of color, and 1.5 times greater in block groups with median house values < 60,000 dollars compared with block groups with median house values > or = 100,000 dollars. Among block groups that did not have a previously permitted solid waste facility, the adjusted hazard of a new permitted facility was 2.7 times higher in block groups with > or = 50% people of color compared with block groups with < 10% people of color. CONCLUSION Solid waste facilities present numerous public health concerns. In North Carolina solid waste facilities are disproportionately located in communities of color and low wealth. In the absence of action to promote environmental justice, the continued need for new facilities could exacerbate this environmental injustice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Norton
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
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Comba P, Bianchi F, Fazzo L, Martina L, Menegozzo M, Minichilli F, Mitis F, Musmeci L, Pizzuti R, Santoro M, Trinca S, Martuzzi M. Cancer mortality in an area of Campania (Italy) characterized by multiple toxic dumping sites. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2006; 1076:449-61. [PMID: 17119224 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1371.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Several recent studies have documented that a widespread practice of dumping toxic wastes has taken place for many years in the Provinces of Naples and Caserta. Extensive programs of environmental monitoring are currently ongoing in the area. In this frame, the Department of Civil Defence of the Italian Government has appointed an ad hoc study group in order to assess the health status of the population resident in the area of interest. The first investigation performed by the study group has been a geographic study on cancer mortality and occurrence of malformations in 196 municipalities constituting the two Provinces. The study detected an area located in the southeastern part of the Province of Caserta and in the northwestern part of the Province of Naples, where cancer mortality and congenital malformations show significantly increased rates with respect to expected figures derived from the regional population. The area highlighted by the study is, in general terms, overlapping with the area where most illegal dumping of toxic wastes took place. It is now recommended that mortality studies be extended to take into account other health outcomes, to search for correlations with environmental exposures, and consider possible confounding factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Comba
- Department of Environment and Primary Prevention, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Roma, Italy.
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Mirabelli MC, Wing S, Marshall SW, Wilcosky TC. Asthma symptoms among adolescents who attend public schools that are located near confined swine feeding operations. Pediatrics 2006; 118:e66-75. [PMID: 16818539 PMCID: PMC4517575 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2005-2812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Little is known about the health effects of living in close proximity to industrial swine operations. We assessed the relationship between estimated exposure to airborne effluent from confined swine feeding operations and asthma symptoms among adolescents who were aged 12 to 14 years. METHODS During the 1999-2000 school year, 58169 adolescents in North Carolina answered questions about their respiratory symptoms, allergies, medications, socioeconomic status, and household environments. To estimate the extent to which these students may have been exposed during the school day to air pollution from confined swine feeding operations, we used publicly available data about schools (n = 265) and swine operations (n = 2343) to generate estimates of exposure for each public school. Prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals for wheezing within the past year were estimated using random-intercepts binary regression models, adjusting for potential confounders, including age, race, socioeconomic status, smoking, school exposures, and household exposures. RESULTS The prevalence of wheezing during the past year was slightly higher at schools that were estimated to be exposed to airborne effluent from confined swine feeding operations. For students who reported allergies, the prevalence of wheezing within the past year was 5% higher at schools that were located within 3 miles of an operation relative to those beyond 3 miles and 24% higher at schools in which livestock odor was noticeable indoors twice per month or more relative to those with no odor. CONCLUSIONS Estimated exposure to airborne pollution from confined swine feeding operations is associated with adolescents' wheezing symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Mirabelli
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
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Mirabelli MC, Wing S, Marshall SW, Wilcosky TC. Race, poverty, and potential exposure of middle-school students to air emissions from confined swine feeding operations. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2006; 114:591-6. [PMID: 16581551 PMCID: PMC1440786 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.8586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies suggest that airborne effluent from swine confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs) may affect the health and quality of life of adults and the prevalence of asthma symptoms among children. To investigate the extent to which public school students may be exposed to airborne effluent from swine CAFOs and to evaluate the association between schools' demographic characteristics and swine CAFO exposures, we assessed the proximity of 226 schools to the nearest swine CAFO and conducted a survey of school employees to identify schools with noticeable livestock odor. We used publicly available information describing the enrollment of each school to assess the association between race and socioeconomic status (SES) and swine CAFO exposure. Odor from livestock was noticeable outside (n = 47, 21%) and inside (n = 19, 8%) school buildings. Schools with < 63% enrollment of white students and > or = 47% of students receiving subsidized lunches at school were located closer to swine CAFOs (mean = 4.9 miles) than were the remaining schools (mean = 10.8 miles) and were more likely to be located within 3 miles of an operation than were schools with high-white/high-SES enrollment (prevalence ratio = 2.63; 95% confidence interval, 1.59-4.33). The prevalence of reported livestock odor varied with SES (low SES, 25%; high SES, 17%). These analyses indicate that the potential for in-school exposure to pollution arising from swine CAFOs in North Carolina and the environmental health risks associated with such exposures vary according to the racial and economic characteristics of enrolled students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Mirabelli
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27705, USA.
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Rego RF, Moraes LRS, Dourado I. Diarrhoea and garbage disposal in Salvador, Brazil. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2005; 99:48-54. [PMID: 15550261 DOI: 10.1016/j.trstmh.2004.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2003] [Revised: 01/02/2004] [Accepted: 02/06/2004] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The association of infantile diarrhoea with the presence of garbage in the environment was investigated in Canabrava, a peripheral neighbourhood of Salvador, northeast of Brazil. A cross-sectional study was conducted with all the 184 children aged less than two years residing in Canabrava, which is located close to the city garbage dump. Variables selected for study included the method used for the disposal of excrement, type of floor, mother's education, unemployment of the head of the family, regularity of the water supply, presence of toilet, storage of garbage inside the house, age, gender, duration of breastfeeding, and the number of people per room. The estimated prevalence of diarrhoea was 21.2%. Exposure to garbage in the environment was found to be the most important factor associated with diarrhoea (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.98, 95% CI 1.56-10.13). Other important variables were the mother's education (AOR = 2.79, 95% CI 1.09-7.13), maternal breastfeeding (AOR = 2.30, 95% CI 1.05-5.04), and unemployment of the head of the family (AOR = 2.09, 95% CI 0.93-4.69). These findings indicate the necessity of adopting solutions in the public domain and of intersectorial policies for the reduction of diarrhoea.
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Affiliation(s)
- R F Rego
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva da Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Av. Reitor Miguel Calmon, s/n, Vale do Canela, Salvador, BA, CEP 40110-100, Brazil.
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30
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Abstract
Different methods of waste management emit a large number of substances, most in small quantities and at extremely low levels. Raised incidence of low birth weight births has been related to residence near landfill sites, as has the occurrence of various congenital malformations. There is little evidence for an association with reproductive or developmental effects with proximity to incinerators. Studies of cancer incidence and mortality in populations around landfill sites or incinerators have been equivocal, with varying results for different cancer sites. Many of these studies lack good individual exposure information and data on potential confounders, such as socio-economic status. The inherent latency of diseases and migration of populations are often ignored. Waste management workers have been shown to have increased incidence of accidents and musculoskeletal problems. The health impacts of new waste management technologies and the increasing use of recycling and composting will require assessment and monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Rushton
- MRC Institute for Environment and Health, Leicester, UK.
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Jarup L, Briggs D, de Hoogh C, Morris S, Hurt C, Lewin A, Maitland I, Richardson S, Wakefield J, Elliott P. Cancer risks in populations living near landfill sites in Great Britain. Br J Cancer 2002; 86:1732-6. [PMID: 12087458 PMCID: PMC2375392 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6600311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2001] [Revised: 03/18/2002] [Accepted: 03/25/2002] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have raised concerns about possible excess risks of bladder, brain and hepatobiliary cancers and leukaemias near landfill sites. Several cancers have been implicated, but no consistent pattern has emerged. We present a large nationwide analysis of selected cancers near landfill sites in Great Britain. The base population comprised people living within 2 km of 9565 (from a total of 19 196) landfill sites that were operational at some time from 1982 to 1997, with populations living more than 2 km from a landfill as reference. Risks of cancers at the above sites were computed with adjustment for age, sex, year of diagnosis, region and deprivation. National post-coded registers provided a total of 341 856 640 person-years for the adult cancer analyses and 113 631 443 person-years for childhood leukaemia. There were 89 786 cases of bladder cancer, 36 802 cases of brain cancer, 21 773 cases of hepatobiliary cancer, 37 812 cases of adult leukaemia and 3973 cases of childhood leukaemia. In spite of the very large scale of this national study, we found no excess risks of cancers of the bladder and brain, hepatobiliary cancer or leukaemia, in populations living within 2 km of landfill sites. The results were similar if the analysis were restricted to landfill sites licensed to carry special (hazardous) waste. Our results do not support suggestions of excess risks of cancer associated with landfill sites reported in other studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Jarup
- The Small Area Health Statistics Unit, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Imperial College, St Mary's Campus, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK.
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