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Chambers-Richards T, Su Y, Chireh B, D'Arcy C. Exposure to toxic occupations and their association with Parkinson's disease: a systematic review with meta-analysis. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2023; 38:65-83. [PMID: 34796708 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2021-0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Earlier longitudinal reviews on environmental and occupational toxins and Parkinson's disease (PD) risk have limitations. This study aimed to determine the strength of association between three types of toxic occupational exposures and the occurrence of PD by diagnostic methods. METHODS A search was conducted of EMBASE, PubMed/Medline, Toxnet, LILACS, and Cochrane Library databases for longitudinal studies that assessed toxic occupational exposure, Parkinsonian, or related disorders, diagnosed by International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes, medical records, or confirmation by a neurologist/nurse, and published in the English language from January 1990 to July 2021. Pooled risk ratios (RR) estimates were produced using random-effects models. Systematic review with meta-analysis synthesized the results. Study quality, heterogeneity, and publication bias were examined. High-quality articles that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. RESULTS Twenty-four articles were used in the analyses. The pooled RR for electromagnetic exposure and PD were (RR=1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91-1.16) while the pooled RR between PD and metal and pesticide exposure were (RR=1.07, 95% CI 0.92-1.24) and (RR=1.41, 95% CI 1.20-1.65), respectively. Pooled RR for methods of diagnosis and their associations with PD were: confirmation by a neurologist or nurse (RR=2.17, 95% CI 1.32-3.54); ICD codes (RR=1.14, 95% CI 1.03-1.26), and medical records (RR=1.06, 95% CI 0.92-1.21). CONCLUSIONS Our systematic review provides robust evidence that toxic occupational exposures are significant risk factors for PD especially those diagnosed by neurologists or nurses using standardized methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yingying Su
- School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | | | - Carl D'Arcy
- School of Public Health, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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2
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L Pall M. Low Intensity Electromagnetic Fields Act via Voltage-Gated Calcium Channel (VGCC) Activation to Cause Very Early Onset Alzheimer's Disease: 18 Distinct Types of Evidence. Curr Alzheimer Res 2022; 19:119-132. [PMID: 35114921 PMCID: PMC9189734 DOI: 10.2174/1567205019666220202114510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Electronically generated electromagnetic fields (EMFs) including those used in wireless communication such as cell phones, Wi-Fi and smart meters, are coherent, producing very high electric and magnetic forces which act on the voltage sensor of voltage-gated calcium channels to produce increases in intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i. The calcium hypothesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has shown that each of the important AD-specific and nonspecific causal elements are produced by excessive [Ca2+]i. [Ca2+]i acts in AD via excessive calcium signaling and the peroxynitrite/oxidative stress/inflammation pathway which are each elevated by EMFs. An apparent vicious cycle in AD involves amyloid-beta protein (A) and [Ca2+]i. Three types of epidemiology each suggest EMF causation of AD including early onset AD. Extensive animal model studies show that low intensity EMFs cause neurodegeneration including AD, with AD animals having elevated levels of A, amyloid precursor protein and BACE1. Rats exposed to pulsed EMFs every day are reported to develop universal or near universal very very very early onset neurodegeneration including AD; these findings are superficially similar to humans with digital dementia. EMFs producing modest increases in [Ca2+]i can also produce protective, therapeutic effects. The therapeutic pathway and peroxynitrite pathway inhibit each other. A summary of 18 different findings is provided, which collectively provide powerful evidence for EMF causation of AD. The author is concerned that smarter, more highly pulsed "smart" wireless communication may cause widespread very, very early onset AD in human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin L Pall
- Professor Emeritus of Biochemistry & Basic Medical Sciences Washington State University Mailing Address: 638 NE 41stst Ave., Portland OR 97232, USA
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3
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Agrawal N, Verma K, Baghel D, Chauhan A, Prasad DN, Sharma SK, Kohli E. Effects of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field on different developmental stages of Drosophila melanogaster. Int J Radiat Biol 2021; 97:1606-1616. [PMID: 34402374 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2021.1969465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The model biological organism Drosophila melanogaster has been utilized to assess the effect of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) on locomotion, longevity, developmental dynamics, cell viability and oxidative stress. MATERIALS AND METHOD Developmental stages of Drosophila melanogaster (Oregon R strain) individually exposed to ELF-EMF (75 Hz, 550 µT) for 6 h once for acute exposure. For chronic exposure, complete life cycle of fly, that is, egg to adult fly was exposed to ELF-EMF for 6 h daily. The effect of exposure on their crawling and climbing ability, longevity, development dynamics, cellular damage and oxidative stress (generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)) was evaluated. RESULTS The crawling ability of larvae was significantly (p < .05) reduced on acute (third stage instar larvae) as well as chronic exposure (F0 and F1 larvae). When locomotion of flies was tested using climbing assay, no alteration was observed in their climbing ability under both acute and chronic exposure; however, when their speed of climbing was compared, a significant decrease in speed of F1 flies was observed (p = .0027) on chronic exposure. The survivability of flies was significantly affected under chronic and acute exposure (at third stage instar larvae). In case of acute exposure of the third stage instar larvae, although all the flies were eclosed by the 17th day, there was a significant decline in the number of flies (p = .007) in comparison to control. While in case of chronic exposure apart from low number of flies eclosed in comparison to control, there was delay in eclosion by one day (p = .0004). Using trypan blue assay, the internal gut damage of third stage instar larvae was observed. Under acute exposure condition at third stage instar larvae, 30% larvae has taken up trypan blue, while only 10% larvae from acute exposure at adult stage. On chronic exposure, 50% larvae of the F1 generation have taken up trypan blue. On evaluation of oxidative stress, there is a significant rise in ROS in case of acute exposure at third stage instar larvae (p = .0004), adult fly stage (p = .0004) and chronic exposure (p = .0001). CONCLUSION ELF-EMF has maximum effects on acute exposure of third stage instar larvae and chronic exposure (egg to adult fly stage). These results suggest that electromagnetic radiations, though, have become indispensible part of our lives but they plausibly affect our health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Agrawal
- Department of Neurobiology, Defense Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences, DRDO, Delhi, India
| | - Kalyani Verma
- Department of Neurobiology, Defense Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences, DRDO, Delhi, India
| | - Doli Baghel
- Department of Neurobiology, Defense Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences, DRDO, Delhi, India
| | - Amitabh Chauhan
- Department of Neurobiology, Defense Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences, DRDO, Delhi, India
| | - Dipti N Prasad
- Department of Neurobiology, Defense Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences, DRDO, Delhi, India
| | - Sanjeev K Sharma
- Department of Biomedical Instrumentation, Defense Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences, DRDO, Delhi, India
| | - Ekta Kohli
- Department of Neurobiology, Defense Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences, DRDO, Delhi, India
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4
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Goldsmith DF, Barlet G. Proportionate mortality study of unionized maintenance of way railroad workers. Occup Med (Lond) 2021; 71:41-47. [PMID: 33511406 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqaa218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Railroad maintenance of way (MOW) workers are exposed to many workplace hazards, including diesel fuel and exhaust, ballast (silica) dust, asbestos, solvents, herbicides, welding fumes, heavy rolling equipment, vibration and extreme weather. AIMS Due to the number of excess deaths we found in a companion standardized mortality ratio (SMR) study for union members <65 years, we hypothesized that these workers may have elevated mortality risks among all ages for many chronic conditions. METHODS Proportionate mortality ratios (PMRs) were calculated for 37 661 male MOW workers ages 20 and older who were members of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED). A data set was submitted to the National Death Index (NDI) to identify decedents and to determine cause of death for workers who died between 1979 and 2014. The CDC WONDER database was used to determine expected mortality for US males. RESULTS For certain diseases and cancers the SMR and PMR findings have parallel mortality excesses. Examples include septicaemia and anaemia; diabetes; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); nephritis; and transportation accidents. Among cancers, we found excess oesophageal, stomach, colorectal, lung, prostate, kidney and in situ cancers. Two excess SMR findings were not replicated in the PMR assessment-Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. CONCLUSIONS The PMR findings suggest that some of the mortality excesses from the SMR study are elevated, which adds support to their being consistently raised among BMWED members. The shared excess causes of death in the PMR and SMR studies should be focused on for future prevention and surveillance activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- D F Goldsmith
- Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - G Barlet
- Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics, CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training, Washington, DC, USA
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5
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Jalilian H, Najafi K, Khosravi Y, Röösli M. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, occupational exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields and electric shocks: a systematic review and meta-analysis. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2021; 36:129-142. [PMID: 32946420 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2020-0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) and electric shocks occurs in many workplaces and occupations but it is unclear whether any of these exposures cause Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to explore whether occupational exposure to ELF-MF and/or electric shocks are risk factor for ALS. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases up to the end of 2019. Pooled risk estimates were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis including exploration of the sources of heterogeneity between studies and publication bias. Twenty-seven publications fulfilled the inclusion criteria. We found a weak, significant, association between occupational exposure to ELF-MF and the risk of ALS (RRPooled estimate: 1.20; 95%CI: 1.05, 1.38) with moderate to high heterogeneity (I2=66.3%) and indication of publication bias (PEgger's test=0.03). No association was observed between occupational exposure to electric shocks and risk of ALS (RRPooled estimate: 0.97; 95%CI: 0.80, 1.17) with high heterogeneity (I2=80.5%), and little indication for publication bias (PEgger's test=0.24). The findings indicate that occupational exposure to ELF-MF, but not electric shocks, might be a risk factor for ALS. However, given the moderate to high heterogeneity and potential publication bias, the results should be interpreted with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Jalilian
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, Faculty of Health, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Kamran Najafi
- Student Research Committee, Hamedan University of Medical Sciences, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Yahya Khosravi
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety Engineering, School of Health, Research Center for Health, Safety and Environment, Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Martin Röösli
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Baaken D, Dechent D, Blettner M, Drießen S, Merzenich H. Occupational Exposure to Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields and Risk of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Results of a Feasibility Study for a Pooled Analysis of Original Data. Bioelectromagnetics 2021; 42:271-283. [PMID: 33764559 DOI: 10.1002/bem.22335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Previous meta-analyses have suggested an increased risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) associated with occupational exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF). However, results should be interpreted with caution since studies were methodologically heterogeneous. Here, we assessed the feasibility of a pooling study to harmonize and re-analyze available original data. A systematic literature search was conducted. Published epidemiological studies were identified in PubMed and EMF-Portal from literature databases' inception dates until January 2019. The characteristics of all studies were described, including exposure metrics, exposure categories, and confounders. A survey among the principal investigators (PI) was carried out to assess their willingness to provide their original data. The statistical power of a pooling study was evaluated. We identified 15 articles published between 1997 and 2019. Studies differed in terms of outcome, study population, exposure assessment, and exposure metrics. Most studies assessed ELF-MF as average magnetic flux density per working day; however, exposure categories varied widely. The pattern of adjustment for confounders was heterogeneous between studies, with age, sex, and socioeconomic status being most frequent. Eight PI expressed their willingness to provide original data. A relative risk of ≥1.14 for ALS and occupational exposure to ELF-MF can be detected with a power of more than 80% in a pooled study. The pooling of original data is recommended and could contribute to a better understanding of ELF-MF in the etiology of ALS based on a large database and reduced heterogeneity due to a standardized analysis protocol with harmonized exposure metrics and exposure categories. Bioelectromagnetics. © 2021 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Baaken
- Institute of Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (IMBEI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Dagmar Dechent
- Research Center for Bioelectromagnetic Interaction (femu), Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, University Hospital RWTH, Aachen, Germany
| | - Maria Blettner
- Institute of Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (IMBEI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Sarah Drießen
- Research Center for Bioelectromagnetic Interaction (femu), Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty, University Hospital RWTH, Aachen, Germany
| | - Hiltrud Merzenich
- Institute of Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (IMBEI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
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7
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Chen GX, Mannetje A', Douwes J, van den Berg LH, Pearce N, Kromhout H, Glass B, Brewer N, McLean DJ. Associations of Occupational Exposures to Electric Shocks and Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields With Motor Neurone Disease. Am J Epidemiol 2021; 190:393-402. [PMID: 33034341 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwaa214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In a New Zealand population-based case-control study we assessed associations with occupational exposure to electric shocks, extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) and motor neurone disease using job-exposure matrices to assess exposure. Participants were recruited between 2013 and 2016. Associations with ever/never, duration, and cumulative exposure were assessed using logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, education, smoking, alcohol consumption, sports, head or spine injury, and solvents, and was mutually adjusted for the other exposure. All analyses were repeated stratified by sex. An elevated risk was observed for having ever worked in a job with potential for electric shocks (odds ratio (OR) = 1.35, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.98, 1.86), with the strongest association for the highest level of exposure (OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.31, 3.09). Analysis by duration suggested a nonlinear association: Risk was increased for both short duration (<3 years; OR = 4.69, 95% CI: 2.25, 9.77) and long duration (>24 years; OR = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.05, 3.36) in a job with high level of electric shock exposure, with less pronounced associations for intermediate durations. No association with ELF-MF was found. Our findings provide support for an association between occupational exposure to electric shocks and motor neurone disease but did not show associations with exposure to work-related ELF-MF.
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8
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Riancho J, Sanchez de la Torre JR, Paz-Fajardo L, Limia C, Santurtun A, Cifra M, Kourtidis K, Fdez-Arroyabe P. The role of magnetic fields in neurodegenerative diseases. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2021; 65:107-117. [PMID: 32198562 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-020-01896-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The term neurodegenerative diseases include a long list of diseases affecting the nervous system that are characterized by the degeneration of different neurological structures. Among them, Alzheimer disease (AD), Parkinson disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are the most representative ones. The vast majority of cases are sporadic and results from the interaction of genes and environmental factors in genetically predisposed individuals. Among environmental conditions, electromagnetic field exposure has begun to be assessed as a potential risk factor for neurodegeneration. In this review, we discuss the existing literature regarding electromagnetic fields and neurodegenerative diseases. Epidemiological studies in AD, PD, and ALS have shown discordant results; thus, a clear correlation between electromagnetic exposure and neurodegeneration has not been demonstrated. In addition, we discuss the role of electromagnetic radiation as a potential non-invasive therapeutic strategy for some neurodegenerative diseases, particularly for PD and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Riancho
- Service of Neurology, Hospital Sierrallana-IDIVAL, Barrio Ganzo s/n, 39300, Torrelavega, Spain.
- CIBERNED, Barcelona, Spain.
- Medicine and Psychiatry Department, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain.
| | | | - Lucía Paz-Fajardo
- Service of Internal Medicine, Hospital Sierrallana, Torrelavega, Spain
| | - Cristina Limia
- Service of Internal Medicine, Hospital Sierrallana, Torrelavega, Spain
| | - Ana Santurtun
- Legal Medicine and Toxicology Unit, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - Michal Cifra
- Institute of Photonics and Electronics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Chaberská 1014/57, 182 51, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kostas Kourtidis
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Democritus University of Thrace, 67100, Xanthi, Greece
- Environmental and Networking Technologies and Applications Unit (ENTA), Athena Research and Innovation Center, 67100, Xanthi, Greece
| | - Pablo Fdez-Arroyabe
- Geography and Planning Department, Geobiomet Research Group, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
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Affiliation(s)
- Omer Dasdag
- Pre-Graduate Internship Department, Medical School, Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nur Adalier
- Pre-Graduate Internship Department, Medical School, Medical School, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Suleyman Dasdag
- Biophysics Department, Medical School, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Su L, Jin Y, Lou H, Chen G. RE: "ASSOCIATIONS OF ELECTRIC SHOCK AND EXTREMELY LOW-FREQUENCY MAGNETIC FIELD EXPOSURE WITH THE RISK OF AMYOTROPHIC LATERAL SCLEROSIS: THE EURO-MOTOR PROJECT". Am J Epidemiol 2019; 188:1753-1759. [PMID: 31150043 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwz122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Liling Su
- Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, China
| | - Yumin Jin
- Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haifeng Lou
- Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guangdi Chen
- Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology of Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Gunnarsson LG, Bodin L. Occupational Exposures and Neurodegenerative Diseases-A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analyses. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16030337. [PMID: 30691095 PMCID: PMC6388365 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16030337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To carry out an integrated and stratified meta-analysis on occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs), metals and pesticides and its effects on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, and investigate the possibility of publication bias. Methods: In the current study, we updated our recently published meta-analyses on occupational exposures in relation to ALS, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Based on 66 original publications of good scientific epidemiological standard, according to the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) guidelines, we analysed subgroups by carrying out stratified meta-analyses on publication year, statistical precision of the relative risk (RR) estimates, inspection of the funnel plots and test of bias. Results: Based on 19 studies the weighted RR for occupational exposure to EMFs was 1.26 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.07⁻1.50) for ALS, 1.33 (95% CI 1.07⁻1.64) for Alzheimer's disease and 1.02 (95% CI 0.83⁻1.26) for Parkinson's disease. Thirty-one studies concerned occupational exposure to pesticides and the weighted RR was 1.35 (95% CI 1.02⁻1.79) for ALS, 1.50 (95% CI 0.98⁻2.29) for Alzheimer's disease and 1.66 (95% CI 1.42⁻1.94) for Parkinson's disease. Finally, 14 studies concerned occupational exposure to metals and only exposure to lead (five studies) involved an elevated risk for ALS or Parkinson's disease and the weighted RR was 1.57 (95% CI 1.11⁻2.20). The weighted RR for all the non-lead exposures was 0.97 (95% CI 0.88⁻1.06). Conclusions: Exposure to pesticides increased the risk of getting the mentioned neurodegenerative diseases by at least 50%. Exposure to lead was only studied for ALS and Parkinson's disease and involved 50% increased risk. Occupational exposure to EMFs seemed to involve some 10% increase in risk for ALS and Alzheimer's disease only.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars-Gunnar Gunnarsson
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, Örebro University, 701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Lennart Bodin
- Department of Statistics, Örebro University, 701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, SE 177 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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12
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Occupational exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields and risk of Alzheimer disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurotoxicology 2018; 69:242-252. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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13
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Gunnarsson LG, Bodin L. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Occupational Exposures: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analyses. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15112371. [PMID: 30373166 PMCID: PMC6265680 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15112371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: We conducted a systematic literature review to identify studies fulfilling good scientific epidemiological standards for use in meta-analyses of occupational risk factors for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Methods: We identified 79 original publications on associations between work and ALS. The MOOSE (Meta-analysis Of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations) guidelines were used to ensure high scientific quality, and reliable protocols were applied to classify the articles. Thirty-seven articles fulfilled good scientific standards, while 42 were methodologically deficient and thus were excluded from our meta-analyses. Results: The weighted relative risks for the various occupational exposures were respectively; 1.29 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.97–1.72; six articles) for heavy physical work, 3.98 (95% CI: 2.04–7.77; three articles) for professional sports, 1.45 (95% CI: 1.07–1.96; six articles) for metals, 1.19 (95% CI: 1.07–1.33; 10 articles) for chemicals, 1.18 (95% CI: 1.07–1.31; 16 articles) for electromagnetic fields or working with electricity, and 1.18 (95% CI: 1.05–1.34; four articles) for working as a nurse or physician. Conclusions: Meta-analyses based only on epidemiologic publications of good scientific quality show that the risk of ALS is statistically significantly elevated for occupational exposures to excessive physical work, chemicals (especially pesticides), metals (especially lead), and possibly also to electromagnetic fields and health care work. These results are not explained by publication bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars-Gunnar Gunnarsson
- School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, SE 701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Örebro University, SE 701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Lennart Bodin
- Department of Statistics, Örebro University, SE 701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, SE 177 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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14
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Huss A, Peters S, Vermeulen R. Occupational exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields and the risk of ALS: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Bioelectromagnetics 2018; 39:156-163. [DOI: 10.1002/bem.22104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anke Huss
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Susan Peters
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology; University Medical Centre Utrecht; Utrecht The Netherlands
| | - Roel Vermeulen
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences; Utrecht University; Utrecht The Netherlands
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care; University Medical Center Utrecht; Utrecht The Netherlands
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Pedersen C, Poulsen AH, Rod NH, Frei P, Hansen J, Grell K, Raaschou-Nielsen O, Schüz J, Johansen C. Occupational exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields and risk for central nervous system disease: an update of a Danish cohort study among utility workers. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2017; 90:619-628. [PMID: 28429106 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-017-1224-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Evidence of whether exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) is related to central nervous system diseases is inconsistent. This study updates a previous study of the incidence of such diseases in a large cohort of Danish utility workers by almost doubling the period of follow-up. METHODS We investigated the risks for dementia, motor neurone disease, Parkinson disease, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy among 32,006 men employed at the 99 utility companies that supplied Denmark with electricity during the period 1900-1993. Cases were identified in the Danish National Patient Registry and the cohort was followed during 1982-2010. Exposure was estimated from a job-exposure matrix based on company records of job title and area of work and cohort members were allocated to one of three categories (<0.1, 0.1-0.99 and ≥1.0 µT). RESULTS For dementia, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy the incidence rate ratios (IRR) were close to unity, but higher for motor neurone disease [IRR 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.86-1.79] and lower for Parkinson disease (IRR 0.81, 95% CI 0.67-0.97) among workers exposed to ≥0.1 µT compared with the Danish population. For the highest level of exposure (≥1.0 µT), IRRs of 1.44, 1.78, 1.40 and 1.34 were observed for dementia, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy, respectively. CONCLUSIONS We observed elevated risks of dementia, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy and lower risks of Parkinson disease in relation to exposure to ELF-MF in a large cohort of utility employees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Pedersen
- Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| | - Aslak Harbo Poulsen
- Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Naja Hulvej Rod
- Social Medicine Section, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1014, Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - Patrizia Frei
- Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Johnni Hansen
- Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Kathrine Grell
- Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Ole Raaschou-Nielsen
- Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Joachim Schüz
- Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
- International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Section of Environment and Radiation, 150 Cours Albert Thomas, 69372, Lyon Cedex 08, France
| | - Christoffer Johansen
- Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Strandboulevarden 49, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
- Oncology Clinic, Finsen Centre, Rigshospitalet 5073, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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Vinceti M, Malagoli C, Fabbi S, Kheifets L, Violi F, Poli M, Caldara S, Sesti D, Violanti S, Zanichelli P, Notari B, Fava R, Arena A, Calzolari R, Filippini T, Iacuzio L, Arcolin E, Mandrioli J, Fini N, Odone A, Signorelli C, Patti F, Zappia M, Pietrini V, Oleari P, Teggi S, Ghermandi G, Dimartino A, Ledda C, Mauceri C, Sciacca S, Fiore M, Ferrante M. Magnetic fields exposure from high-voltage power lines and risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in two Italian populations. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2017; 18:583-589. [PMID: 28569083 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2017.1332078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The aetiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a rare and extremely severe neurodegenerative disease, has been associated with magnetic fields exposure. However, evidence for such a relation in the general population is weak, although the previous null results might also be due to exposure misclassification, or a relationship might exist only for selected subgroups. To test such a hypothesis we carried out a population-based case-control study in two Northern and Southern Italy regions, including 703 ALS cases newly diagnosed from 1998 to 2011 and 2737 controls randomly selected from the residents in the study provinces. Overall, we found that a residence near high-voltage power lines, within the corridors yielding a magnetic fields of ≥0.1 μT, was not associated with an excess disease risk, nor did we identify a dose-response relationship after splitting the exposed corridor according to the 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 μT cut-points of exposure. These results were confirmed taking into account age at onset, period of diagnosis, sex, geographical area, and length of exposure. Overall, despite the residual possibility of unmeasured confounding or small susceptible subgroups not identified in our study, these results appear to confirm that the exposure to magnetic fields from power lines occurring in the general population is not associated with increased ALS risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Vinceti
- a Environmental, Genetic, and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center - CREAGEN, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy.,b Department of Epidemiology , Boston University School of Public Health , Boston , MA , USA
| | - Carlotta Malagoli
- a Environmental, Genetic, and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center - CREAGEN, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Sara Fabbi
- c Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari" , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Leeka Kheifets
- d Department of Epidemiology , UCLA Fielding School of Public Health , Los Angeles , CA , USA
| | - Federica Violi
- a Environmental, Genetic, and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center - CREAGEN, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Maurizio Poli
- e Emilia-Romagna Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Energy (ARPAE) , Emilia-Romagna Region , Italy
| | - Salvatore Caldara
- f Sicilia Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention (ARPA) , Palermo , Italy
| | - Daniela Sesti
- e Emilia-Romagna Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Energy (ARPAE) , Emilia-Romagna Region , Italy
| | - Silvia Violanti
- e Emilia-Romagna Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Energy (ARPAE) , Emilia-Romagna Region , Italy
| | - Paolo Zanichelli
- e Emilia-Romagna Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Energy (ARPAE) , Emilia-Romagna Region , Italy
| | - Barbara Notari
- e Emilia-Romagna Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Energy (ARPAE) , Emilia-Romagna Region , Italy
| | - Roberto Fava
- e Emilia-Romagna Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Energy (ARPAE) , Emilia-Romagna Region , Italy
| | - Alessia Arena
- f Sicilia Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention (ARPA) , Palermo , Italy
| | - Roberta Calzolari
- f Sicilia Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention (ARPA) , Palermo , Italy
| | - Tommaso Filippini
- a Environmental, Genetic, and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center - CREAGEN, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Laura Iacuzio
- a Environmental, Genetic, and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center - CREAGEN, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Elisa Arcolin
- a Environmental, Genetic, and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center - CREAGEN, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Jessica Mandrioli
- g Department of Neuroscience , S.Agostino-Estense Hospital, Policlinico University Hospital , Modena , Italy
| | - Nicola Fini
- g Department of Neuroscience , S.Agostino-Estense Hospital, Policlinico University Hospital , Modena , Italy
| | - Anna Odone
- h Department of Biomedical , Biotechnological, and Translational Sciences, University of Parma , Parma , Italy
| | - Carlo Signorelli
- h Department of Biomedical , Biotechnological, and Translational Sciences, University of Parma , Parma , Italy.,i University 'Vita-Salute' San Raffaele , Milan , Italy
| | - Francesco Patti
- j Department of Medical , Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Mario Zappia
- j Department of Medical , Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Vladimiro Pietrini
- k Department of Neuroscience , University of Parma , Parma , Italy , and
| | - Paola Oleari
- l Information and Communication Technology Department , Local Health Unit of Reggio Emilia and IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova , Reggio Emilia , Italy
| | - Sergio Teggi
- c Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari" , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Grazia Ghermandi
- c Department of Engineering "Enzo Ferrari" , University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
| | - Angela Dimartino
- j Department of Medical , Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Caterina Ledda
- j Department of Medical , Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Cristina Mauceri
- j Department of Medical , Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Salvatore Sciacca
- j Department of Medical , Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Maria Fiore
- j Department of Medical , Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Margherita Ferrante
- j Department of Medical , Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", University of Catania , Catania , Italy
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Koeman T, Slottje P, Schouten LJ, Peters S, Huss A, Veldink JH, Kromhout H, van den Brandt PA, Vermeulen R. Occupational exposure and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in a prospective cohort. Occup Environ Med 2017; 74:578-585. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2016-103780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2016] [Revised: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Zhang ZY, Zhang J, Yang CJ, Lian HY, Yu H, Huang XM, Cai P. Coupling Mechanism of Electromagnetic Field and Thermal Stress on Drosophila melanogaster. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0162675. [PMID: 27611438 PMCID: PMC5017647 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Temperature is an important factor in research on the biological effects of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF), but interactions between ELF-EMF and temperature remain unknown. The effects of ELF-EMF (50 Hz, 3 mT) on the lifespan, locomotion, heat shock response (HSR), and oxidative stress (OS) of Canton-Special (CS) and mutant w1118 flies were investigated at 25°C and 35°C (thermal stress). Results showed that thermal stress accelerated the death rates of CS and w1118 flies, shortened their lifespan, and influenced their locomotion rhythm and activity. The upregulated expression levels of heat shock protein (HSP) 22, HSP26, and HSP70 indicated that HSR was enhanced. Thermal stress-induced OS response increased malondialdehyde content, enhanced superoxide dismutase activity, and decreased reactive oxygen species level. The effects of thermal stress on the death rates, lifespan, locomotion, and HSP gene expression of flies, especially w1118 line, were also enhanced by ELF-EMF. In conclusion, thermal stress weakened the physiological function and promoted the HSR and OS of flies. ELF-EMF aggravated damages and enhanced thermal stress-induced HSP and OS response. Therefore, thermal stress and ELF-EMF elicited a synergistic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Yan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, P. R. China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Jing Zhang
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P. R. China
- Xiamen University, Xiamen, P. R. China
| | - Chuan-Jun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, P. R. China
| | - Hui-Yong Lian
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, P. R. China
| | - Hui Yu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Mei Huang
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P. R. China
| | - Peng Cai
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, P. R. China
- * E-mail:
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Huss A, Koeman T, Kromhout H, Vermeulen R. Extremely Low Frequency Magnetic Field Exposure and Parkinson's Disease--A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Data. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:7348-56. [PMID: 26133127 PMCID: PMC4515660 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120707348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To examine the association between occupational exposure to extremely-low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) and Parkinson’s disease. Methods: We systematically searched publications reporting risk estimates of Parkinson’s disease in workers exposed to ELF-MF. Summary relative risks were obtained with random effects meta-analysis. Results: We included 11 studies. To assign exposure, four studies evaluated occupational records, four used census, interview or questionnaire information and three used death certificates. Risk of Parkinson’s disease was not elevated in workers exposed to ELF-MF with a summary relative risk of 1.05, 95% CI 0.98–1.13. Conclusions: Overall, there was no evidence that the exposure to ELF-MF increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Huss
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584CM, The Netherlands.
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Tom Koeman
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584CM, The Netherlands.
| | - Hans Kromhout
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584CM, The Netherlands.
| | - Roel Vermeulen
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584CM, The Netherlands.
- Julius Centre for Public Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Centre, Utrecht 3584CG, The Netherlands.
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Koeman T, Schouten LJ, van den Brandt PA, Slottje P, Huss A, Peters S, Kromhout H, Vermeulen R. Occupational exposures and risk of dementia-related mortality in the prospective Netherlands Cohort Study. Am J Ind Med 2015; 58:625-35. [PMID: 25943788 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupational exposures may be associated with non-vascular dementia. METHODS We analyzed the effects of occupational exposures to solvents, pesticides, metals, extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF), electrical shocks, and diesel motor exhaust on non-vascular dementia related mortality in the Netherlands Cohort Study (NLCS). Exposures were assigned using job-exposure matrices. After 17.3 years of follow-up, 682 male and 870 female cases were available. Analyses were performed using Cox regression. RESULTS Occupational exposure to metals, chlorinated solvents and ELF-MF showed positive associations with non-vascular dementia among men, which seemed driven by metals (hazard ratio ever high vs. background exposure: 1.35 [0.98-1.86]). Pesticide exposure showed statistically significant, inverse associations with non-vascular dementia among men. We found no associations for shocks, aromatic solvents, and diesel motor exhaust. CONCLUSIONS Consistent positive associations were found between occupational exposure to metals and non-vascular dementia. The finding on pesticides is not supported in the overall literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Koeman
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences; Division of Environmental Epidemiology; Utrecht University; Utrecht
| | - Leo J. Schouten
- Department of Epidemiology; GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology; Maastricht University Medical Centre; Maastricht
| | - Piet A. van den Brandt
- Department of Epidemiology; GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology; Maastricht University Medical Centre; Maastricht
| | - Pauline Slottje
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences; Division of Environmental Epidemiology; Utrecht University; Utrecht
| | - Anke Huss
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences; Division of Environmental Epidemiology; Utrecht University; Utrecht
| | - Susan Peters
- Occupational Respiratory Epidemiology; School of Population Health; University of Western Australia; Perth Australia
| | - Hans Kromhout
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences; Division of Environmental Epidemiology; Utrecht University; Utrecht
| | - Roel Vermeulen
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences; Division of Environmental Epidemiology; Utrecht University; Utrecht
- Julius Centre for Public Health Sciences and Primary Care; University Medical Center; Utrecht
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Huss A, Spoerri A, Egger M, Kromhout H, Vermeulen R. Occupational exposure to magnetic fields and electric shocks and risk of ALS: The Swiss National Cohort. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2014; 16:80-5. [DOI: 10.3109/21678421.2014.954588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Influence of electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields on the circadian system: current stage of knowledge. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:169459. [PMID: 25136557 PMCID: PMC4130204 DOI: 10.1155/2014/169459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2014] [Revised: 05/26/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
One of the side effects of each electrical device work is the electromagnetic field generated near its workplace. All organisms, including humans, are exposed daily to the influence of different types of this field, characterized by various physical parameters. Therefore, it is important to accurately determine the effects of an electromagnetic field on the physiological and pathological processes occurring in cells, tissues, and organs. Numerous epidemiological and experimental data suggest that the extremely low frequency magnetic field generated by electrical transmission lines and electrically powered devices and the high frequencies electromagnetic radiation emitted by electronic devices have a potentially negative impact on the circadian system. On the other hand, several studies have found no influence of these fields on chronobiological parameters. According to the current state of knowledge, some previously proposed hypotheses, including one concerning the key role of melatonin secretion disruption in pathogenesis of electromagnetic field induced diseases, need to be revised. This paper reviews the data on the effect of electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields on melatonin and cortisol rhythms—two major markers of the circadian system as well as on sleep. It also provides the basic information about the nature, classification, parameters, and sources of these fields.
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Extremely low-frequency magnetic field exposure, electrical shocks and risk of Parkinson’s disease. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2014; 88:227-34. [DOI: 10.1007/s00420-014-0949-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Davanipour Z, Tseng CC, Lee PJ, Markides KS, Sobel E. Severe Cognitive Dysfunction and Occupational Extremely Low Frequency Magnetic Field Exposure among Elderly Mexican Americans. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 4:1641-1662. [PMID: 24839595 PMCID: PMC4020120 DOI: 10.9734/bjmmr/2014/7317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Aims This report is the first study of the possible relationship between extremely low frequency (50–60 Hz, ELF) magnetic field (MF) exposure and severe cognitive dysfunction. Earlier studies investigated the relationships between MF occupational exposure and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or dementia. These studies had mixed results, depending upon whether the diagnosis of AD or dementia was performed by experts and upon the methodology used to classify MF exposure. Study Design Population-based case-control. Place and Duration of Study Neurology and Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 2 years. Methodology The study population consisted of 3050 Mexican Americans, aged 65+, enrolled in Phase 1 of the Hispanic Established Population for the Epidemiologic Study of the Elderly (H-EPESE) study. Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) results, primary occupational history, and other data were collected. Severe cognitive dysfunction was defined as an MMSE score below 10. The MF exposure methodology developed and used in earlier studies was used. Results Univariate odds ratios (OR) were 3.4 (P< .03; 95% CI: 1.3–8.9) for high and 1.7 (P=.27; 95% CI: 0.7–4.1) for medium or high (M/H) MF occupations. In multivariate main effects models, the results were similar. When interaction terms were allowed in the models, the interactions between M/H or high occupational MF exposure and smoking history or age group were statistically significant, depending upon whether two (65–74, 75+) or three (65–74, 75–84, 85+) age groups were considered, respectively. When the analyses were limited to subjects aged 75+, the interactions between M/H or high MF occupations and a positive smoking history were statistically significant. Conclusion The results of this study indicate that working in an occupation with high or M/H MF exposure may increase the risk of severe cognitive dysfunction. Smoking and older age may increase the deleterious effect of MF exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoreh Davanipour
- Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Chiu-Chen Tseng
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Pey-Jiuan Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Kyriakos S Markides
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555-1153, USA
| | - Eugene Sobel
- Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA ; Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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Fazzo L, Tancioni V, Polichetti A, Iavarone I, Vanacore N, Papini P, Farchi S, Bruno C, Pasetto R, Borgia P, Comba P. Morbidity Experience in Populations Residentially Exposed to 50 Hz Magnetic Fields: Methodology and Preliminary Findings of a Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2013; 15:133-42. [DOI: 10.1179/oeh.2009.15.2.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Occupational Exposure to Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields and Neurodegenerative Disease. J Occup Environ Med 2013; 55:135-46. [DOI: 10.1097/jom.0b013e31827f37f8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Zhou H, Chen G, Chen C, Yu Y, Xu Z. Association between extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields occupations and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a meta-analysis. PLoS One 2012. [PMID: 23189129 PMCID: PMC3506624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0048354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To estimate the relationship between exposure to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) and the risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by a meta-analysis. Methods Through searching PubMed databases (or manual searching) up to April 2012 using the following keywords: “occupational exposure”, “electromagnetic fields” and “amyotrophic lateral sclerosis” or “motor neuron disease”, seventeen studies were identified as eligible for this meta-analysis. The associations between ELF-EMF exposure and the ALS risk were estimated based on study design (case-control or cohort study), and ELF-EMF exposure level assessment (job title or job-exposure matrix). The heterogeneity across the studies was tested, as was publication bias. Results Occupational exposure to ELF-EMF was significantly associated with increased risk of ALS in pooled studies (RR = 1.29, 95%CI = 1.02–1.62), and case-control studies (OR = 1.39, 95%CI = 1.05–1.84), but not cohort studies (RR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.80–1.69). In sub-analyses, similar significant associations were found when the exposure level was defined by the job title, but not the job-exposure matrix. In addition, significant associations between occupational exposure to ELF-EMF and increased risk of ALS were found in studies of subjects who were clinically diagnosed but not those based on the death certificate. Moderate heterogeneity was observed in all analyses. Conclusions Our data suggest a slight but significant ALS risk increase among those with job titles related to relatively high levels of ELF-EMF exposure. Since the magnitude of estimated RR was relatively small, we cannot deny the possibility of potential biases at work. Electrical shocks or other unidentified variables associated with electrical occupations, rather than magnetic-field exposure, may be responsible for the observed associations with ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjie Zhou
- Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guangdi Chen
- Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chunjing Chen
- Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yunxian Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- * E-mail: (YY); (ZX)
| | - Zhengping Xu
- Bioelectromagnetics Laboratory, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- * E-mail: (YY); (ZX)
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de Graaff M(B, Bröer C. ‘We are the canary in a coal mine’: Establishing a disease category and a new health risk. HEALTH RISK & SOCIETY 2012. [DOI: 10.1080/13698575.2012.661040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Maaroufi K, Save E, Poucet B, Sakly M, Abdelmelek H, Had-Aissouni L. Oxidative stress and prevention of the adaptive response to chronic iron overload in the brain of young adult rats exposed to a 150 kilohertz electromagnetic field. Neuroscience 2011; 186:39-47. [PMID: 21497179 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2010] [Revised: 03/14/2011] [Accepted: 04/02/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Iron surcharge may induce an oxidative stress-based decline in several neurological functions. In addition, electromagnetic fields (EMF) of frequencies up to about 100 kHz, emitted by electric/electronic devices, have been suggested to enhance free radical production through an iron dependent pathway. The purpose of this study was therefore to determine a possible relationship between iron status, exposure to EMF, and brain oxidative stress in young adult rats. Samples were micro-dissected from prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum, and cerebellum after chronic saline or iron overload (IO) as well as after chronic sham exposure or exposure to a 150 kHz EMF or after combining EMF exposure with IO. The brain samples were used to monitor oxidative stress-induced lipid peroxidation and activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and catalase. While IO did not induce any oxidative stress in young adult rats, it stimulated antioxidant defenses in the cerebellum and prefrontal cortex in particular. On the contrary, EMF exposure stimulated lipid peroxidation mainly in the cerebellum, without affecting antioxidant defenses. When EMF was coapplied with IO, lipid peroxidation was further increased as compared to EMF alone while the increase in antioxidant defenses triggered by the sole IO was abolished. These data suggest that EMF exposure may be harmful in young adults by impairing the antioxidant defenses directed at preventing iron-induced oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Maaroufi
- Unité Mixte de Recherche 6155 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique-Université de Provence, Marseille cedex 3, France
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Maslanyj M, Lightfoot T, Schüz J, Sienkiewicz Z, McKinlay A. A precautionary public health protection strategy for the possible risk of childhood leukaemia from exposure to power frequency magnetic fields. BMC Public Health 2010; 10:673. [PMID: 21054823 PMCID: PMC3091578 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-10-673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2010] [Accepted: 11/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Epidemiological evidence showing a consistent association between the risk of childhood leukaemia and exposure to power frequency magnetic fields has been accumulating. This debate considers the additional precautionary intervention needed to manage this risk, when it exceeds the protection afforded by the exposure guidelines as recommended by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. Methods The Bradford-Hill Criteria are guidelines for evaluating the scientific evidence that low frequency magnetic fields cause childhood leukaemia. The criteria are used for assessing the strength of scientific evidence and here have been applied to considering the strength of evidence that exposures to extremely low frequency magnetic fields may increase the risk of childhood leukaemia. The applicability of precaution is considered using the risk management framework outlined in a European Commission (EC) communication on the Precautionary Principle. That communication advises that measures should be proportionate, non-discriminatory, consistent with similar measures already taken, based on an examination of the benefits and costs of action and inaction, and subject to review in the light of new scientific findings. Results The main evidence for a risk is an epidemiological association observed in several studies and meta-analyses; however, the number of highly exposed children is small and the association could be due to a combination of selection bias, confounding and chance. Corroborating experimental evidence is limited insofar as there is no clear indication of harm at the field levels implicated; however, the aetiology of childhood leukaemia is poorly understood. Taking a precautionary approach suggests that low-cost intervention to reduce exposure is appropriate. This assumes that if the risk is real, its impact is likely to be small. It also recognises the consequential cost of any major intervention. The recommendation is controversial in that other interpretations of the data are possible, and low-cost intervention may not fully alleviate the risk. Conclusions The debate shows how the EC risk management framework can be used to apply the Precautionary Principle to small and uncertain public health risks. However, despite the need for evidence-based policy making, many of the decisions remain value driven and therefore subjective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myron Maslanyj
- Health Protection Agency, Chilton, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX110RQ, UK.
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Huss A, Spoerri A, Egger M, Röösli M. Residence near power lines and mortality from neurodegenerative diseases: longitudinal study of the Swiss population. Am J Epidemiol 2009; 169:167-75. [PMID: 18990717 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwn297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The relation between residential magnetic field exposure from power lines and mortality from neurodegenerative conditions was analyzed among 4.7 million persons of the Swiss National Cohort (linking mortality and census data), covering the period 2000-2005. Cox proportional hazard models were used to analyze the relation of living in the proximity of 220-380 kV power lines and the risk of death from neurodegenerative diseases, with adjustment for a range of potential confounders. Overall, the adjusted hazard ratio for Alzheimer's disease in persons living within 50 m of a 220-380 kV power line was 1.24 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.80, 1.92) compared with persons who lived at a distance of 600 m or more. There was a dose-response relation with respect to years of residence in the immediate vicinity of power lines and Alzheimer's disease: Persons living at least 5 years within 50 m had an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.51 (95% CI: 0.91, 2.51), increasing to 1.78 (95% CI: 1.07, 2.96) with at least 10 years and to 2.00 (95% CI: 1.21, 3.33) with at least 15 years. The pattern was similar for senile dementia. There was little evidence for an increased risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Huss
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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Röösli M, Egger M, Pfluger D, Minder C. Cardiovascular mortality and exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields: a cohort study of Swiss railway workers. Environ Health 2008; 7:35. [PMID: 18593477 PMCID: PMC2483270 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-7-35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2008] [Accepted: 07/01/2008] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to intermittent magnetic fields of 16 Hz has been shown to reduce heart rate variability, and decreased heart rate variability predicts cardiovascular mortality. We examined mortality from cardiovascular causes in railway workers exposed to varying degrees to intermittent 16.7 Hz magnetic fields. METHODS We studied a cohort of 20,141 Swiss railway employees between 1972 and 2002, including highly exposed train drivers (median lifetime exposure 120.5 muT-years), and less or little exposed shunting yard engineers (42.1 muT-years), train attendants (13.3 muT-years) and station masters (5.7 muT-years). During 464,129 person-years of follow up, 5,413 deaths were recorded and 3,594 deaths were attributed to cardio-vascular diseases. We analyzed data using Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS For all cardiovascular mortality the hazard ratio compared to station masters was 0.99 (95%CI: 0.91, 1.08) in train drivers, 1.13 (95%CI: 0.98, 1.30) in shunting yard engineers, and 1.09 (95%CI: 1.00, 1.19) in train attendants. Corresponding hazard ratios for arrhythmia related deaths were 1.04 (95%CI: 0.68, 1.59), 0.58 (95%CI: 0.24, 1.37) and 10 (95%CI: 0.87, 1.93) and for acute myocardial infarction 1.00 (95%CI: 0.73, 1.36), 1.56 (95%CI: 1.04, 2.32), and 1.14 (95%CI: 0.85, 1.53). The hazard ratio for arrhythmia related deaths per 100 muT-years of cumulative exposure was 0.94 (95%CI: 0.71, 1.24) and 0.91 (95%CI: 0.75, 1.11) for acute myocardial infarction. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence against an association between long-term occupational exposure to intermittent 16.7 Hz magnetic fields and cardiovascular mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Röösli
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM), University of Bern, Finkenhubelweg 11, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Egger
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM), University of Bern, Finkenhubelweg 11, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Social Medicine, University of Bristol, Whiteladies Road, Bristol, BS8 2PR, UK
| | - Dominik Pfluger
- datametrix AG, Zürich, Technoparkstrasse 1, 8005 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Minder
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM), University of Bern, Finkenhubelweg 11, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Horten Zentrum, Medical Faculty, University of Zürich, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland
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Röösli M. Commentary: Epidemiological research on extremely low frequency magnetic fields and Alzheimer's disease--biased or informative? Int J Epidemiol 2008; 37:341-3. [PMID: 18276625 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyn024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Röösli
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland.
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