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Jordan-Ward R, von Hippel FA, Sancho Santos ME, Wilson CA, Rodriguez Maldonado Z, Dillon D, Titus T, Gardell A, Salamova A, Postlethwait JH, Contreras E, Capozzi SL, Panuwet P, Parrocha C, Bremiller R, Guiguen Y, Gologergen J, Immingan T, Miller P, Carpenter D, Buck CL. Transcriptomic and developmental effects of persistent organic pollutants in sentinel fishes collected near an arctic formerly used defense site. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 356:124283. [PMID: 38823546 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Alaska contains over 600 formerly used defense (FUD) sites, many of which serve as point sources of pollution. These sites are often co-located with rural communities that depend upon traditional subsistence foods, especially lipid-rich animals that bioaccumulate and biomagnify persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Many POPs are carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting compounds that are associated with adverse health outcomes. Therefore, elevated exposure to POPs from point sources of pollution may contribute to disproportionate incidence of disease in arctic communities. We investigated PCB concentrations and the health implications of POP exposure in sentinel fishes collected near the Northeast Cape FUD site on Sivuqaq (St. Lawrence Island), Alaska. Sivuqaq residents are almost exclusively Yupik and rely on subsistence foods. At the request of the Sivuqaq community, we examined differential gene expression and developmental pathologies associated with exposure to POPs originating at the Northeast Cape FUD site. We found significantly higher levels of PCBs in Alaska blackfish (Dallia pectoralis) collected from contaminated sites downstream of the FUD site compared to fish collected from upstream reference sites. We compared transcriptomic profiles and histopathologies of these same blackfish. Blackfish from contaminated sites overexpressed genes involved in ribosomal and FoxO signaling pathways compared to blackfish from reference sites. Contaminated blackfish also had significantly fewer thyroid follicles and smaller pigmented macrophage aggregates. Conversely, we found that ninespine stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) from contaminated sites exhibited thyroid follicle hyperplasia. Despite our previous research reporting transcriptomic and endocrine differences in stickleback from contaminated vs. reference sites, we did not find significant differences in kidney or gonadal histomorphologies. Our results demonstrate that contaminants from the Northeast Cape FUD site are associated with altered gene expression and thyroid development in native fishes. These results are consistent with our prior work demonstrating disruption of the thyroid hormone axis in Sivuqaq residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee Jordan-Ward
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA
| | - Frank A von Hippel
- Department of Community, Environment and Policy, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, 1295 N. Martin Ave., P.O. Box 245210, Tucson, AZ, 85724, USA.
| | | | - Catherine A Wilson
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Zyled Rodriguez Maldonado
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA
| | - Danielle Dillon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA
| | - Tom Titus
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Alison Gardell
- School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, University of Washington Tacoma, 1900 Commerce Street, Tacoma, WA, 98402, USA
| | - Amina Salamova
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - John H Postlethwait
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | - Elise Contreras
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA
| | - Staci L Capozzi
- O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Parinya Panuwet
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Chelsea Parrocha
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ruth Bremiller
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA
| | | | - Jesse Gologergen
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 1225 E. International Airport Road, Suite 220, Anchorage, AK, 99518, USA
| | - Tiffany Immingan
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 1225 E. International Airport Road, Suite 220, Anchorage, AK, 99518, USA
| | - Pamela Miller
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 1225 E. International Airport Road, Suite 220, Anchorage, AK, 99518, USA
| | - David Carpenter
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, 5 University Place, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - C Loren Buck
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ, 86011, USA
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Beard S, Freeman K, Velasco ML, Boyd W, Chamberlain T, Latoni A, Lasko D, Lunn RM, O'Fallon L, Packenham J, Smarr MM, Arnette R, Cavalier-Keck C, Keck J, Muhammad N, Wilson O, Wilson B, Wilson A, Dixon D. Racism as a public health issue in environmental health disparities and environmental justice: working toward solutions. Environ Health 2024; 23:8. [PMID: 38254105 PMCID: PMC10802013 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-024-01052-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental health research in the US has shown that racial and ethnic minorities and members of low-socioeconomic groups, are disproportionately burdened by harmful environmental exposures, in their homes, workplace, and neighborhood environments that impact their overall health and well-being. Systemic racism is a fundamental cause of these disproportionate exposures and associated health effects. To invigorate and inform current efforts on environmental justice and to raise awareness of environmental racism, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) hosted a workshop where community leaders, academic researchers, and NIEHS staff shared perspectives and discussed ways to inform future work to address health disparities. OBJECTIVES To share best practices learned and experienced in partnerships between academic researchers and communities that are addressing environmental racism across the US; and to outline critical needs and future actions for NIEHS, other federal agencies, and anyone who is interested in conducting or funding research that addresses environmental racism and advances health equity for all communities. DISCUSSION Through this workshop with community leaders and researchers funded by NIEHS, we learned that partnerships between academics and communities hold great promise for addressing environmental racism; however, there are still profound obstacles. To overcome these barriers, translation of research into plain language and health-protective interventions is needed. Structural changes are also needed in current funding mechanisms and training programs across federal agencies. We also learned the importance of leveraging advances in technology to develop creative solutions that can protect public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Beard
- Division of Extramural Research and Training, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | - Windy Boyd
- Office of the Director, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Toccara Chamberlain
- Division of Extramural Research and Training, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alfonso Latoni
- Division of Extramural Research and Training, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Denise Lasko
- Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Mail Drop B3-06 Rall Bldg. 101, Rm. B341, P.O. Box 12233, Durham, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Ruth M Lunn
- Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Mail Drop B3-06 Rall Bldg. 101, Rm. B341, P.O. Box 12233, Durham, North Carolina, 27709, USA
| | - Liam O'Fallon
- Division of Extramural Research and Training, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joan Packenham
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Melissa M Smarr
- Division of Extramural Research and Training, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robin Arnette
- Office of Communications and Public Liaison, National Institute on Aging, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Jason Keck
- 7 Directions of Service, Mebane, North Carolina, USA
| | - Naeema Muhammad
- North Carolina Environmental Justice Network, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Omega Wilson
- West End Revitalization Association, Mebane, North Carolina, USA
| | - Brenda Wilson
- West End Revitalization Association, Mebane, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ayo Wilson
- West End Revitalization Association, Mebane, North Carolina, USA
| | - Darlene Dixon
- Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Mail Drop B3-06 Rall Bldg. 101, Rm. B341, P.O. Box 12233, Durham, North Carolina, 27709, USA.
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3
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Jordan-Ward R, von Hippel FA, Wilson CA, Rodriguez Maldonado Z, Dillon D, Contreras E, Gardell A, Minicozzi MR, Titus T, Ungwiluk B, Miller P, Carpenter D, Postlethwait JH, Byrne S, Buck CL. Differential gene expression and developmental pathologies associated with persistent organic pollutants in sentinel fish in Troutman Lake, Sivuqaq, Alaska. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 340:122765. [PMID: 37913975 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are lipophilic compounds that bioaccumulate in animals and biomagnify within food webs. Many POPs are endocrine disrupting compounds that impact vertebrate development. POPs accumulate in the Arctic via global distillation and thereby impact high trophic level vertebrates as well as people who live a subsistence lifestyle. The Arctic also contains thousands of point sources of pollution, such as formerly used defense (FUD) sites. Sivuqaq (St. Lawrence Island), Alaska was used by the U.S. military during the Cold War and FUD sites on the island remain point sources of POP contamination. We examined the effects of POP exposure on ninespine stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) collected from Troutman Lake in the village of Gambell as a model for human exposure and disease. During the Cold War, Troutman Lake was used as a dump site by the U.S. military. We found that PCB concentrations in stickleback exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's guideline for unlimited consumption despite these fish being low trophic level organisms. We examined effects at three levels of biological organization: gene expression, endocrinology, and histomorphology. We found that ninespine stickleback from Troutman Lake exhibited suppressed gonadal development compared to threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) studied elsewhere. Troutman Lake stickleback also displayed two distinct hepatic phenotypes, one with lipid accumulation and one with glycogen-type vacuolation. We compared the transcriptomic profiles of these liver phenotypes using RNA sequencing and found significant upregulation of genes involved in ribosomal and metabolic pathways in the lipid accumulation group. Additionally, stickleback displaying liver lipid accumulation had significantly fewer thyroid follicles than the vacuolated phenotype. Our study and previous work highlight health concerns for people and wildlife due to pollution hotspots in the Arctic, and the need for health-protective remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee Jordan-Ward
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
| | - Frank A von Hippel
- Department of Community, Environment and Policy, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, 1295 N. Martin Ave., P.O. Box 245210, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
| | - Catherine A Wilson
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Zyled Rodriguez Maldonado
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
| | - Danielle Dillon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
| | - Elise Contreras
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
| | - Alison Gardell
- School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, University of Washington Tacoma, 1900 Commerce Street, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA
| | - Michael R Minicozzi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Minnesota State University Mankato, 242 Trafton Science Center South, Mankato, MN, 56001, USA
| | - Tom Titus
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Bobby Ungwiluk
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 1225 E. International Airport Road, Suite 220, Anchorage, AK 99518, USA
| | - Pamela Miller
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 1225 E. International Airport Road, Suite 220, Anchorage, AK 99518, USA
| | - David Carpenter
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, 5 University Place, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - John H Postlethwait
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Samuel Byrne
- Middlebury College, Department of Biology and Global Health Program, 14 Old Chapel Rd, Middlebury, VT 05753, USA
| | - C Loren Buck
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
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4
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Bolnick J, Roubin S, Burr M, Byrne S. Assessing awareness and compliance with fish consumption advisories on the upper Hudson River: Implications for risk management of the Hudson River Superfund site. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 334:122125. [PMID: 37390914 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122125] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a common environmental contaminant. The NYS Department of Health (DOH) issues fish consumption advisories to limit consumption of PCB-contaminated fish. Fish consumption advisories are utilized as institutional controls within the Hudson River Superfund site to limit exposure to PCBs. There is a "Do Not Eat" advisory for all species caught in the upper Hudson River, from Glens Falls, NY to Troy, NY. The section of the river below Bakers Falls also has a catch-and-release regulation issued by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. There is limited research on the effectiveness of these advisories in preventing consumption of contaminated fish in the context of Superfund site risk management. We surveyed individuals actively fishing on the upper Hudson River in the area with a "Do Not Eat" advisory, specifically between Hudson Falls and the Federal Dam in Troy, NY. The goal of the survey was to assess knowledge of the consumption guidelines, and if the guidelines are effectively preventing exposure to PCBs. A subset of individuals continue to consume fish caught from the upper Hudson River Superfund site. Awareness of advisories was inversely related to fish consumption from the Superfund site. Age, race, and possession of a fishing license were associated with overall awareness of fish consumption guidelines; age and possession of a license were associated with awareness of the "Do Not Eat" advisory. While institutional controls appear to have a beneficial impact, there is incomplete awareness and compliance with advisories and regulations aimed at preventing exposure to PCBs from fish consumption. Risk assessment and management strategies for contaminated fisheries should consider imperfect adherence to fish consumption guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Bolnick
- Middlebury College, 14 Old Chapel Rd, Middlebury, VT, 05753, USA.
| | - Sam Roubin
- Middlebury College, 14 Old Chapel Rd, Middlebury, VT, 05753, USA
| | - Makenna Burr
- St. Lawrence University, 23 Ramoda Dr, Canton, NY, 13617, USA
| | - Sam Byrne
- Middlebury College, 14 Old Chapel Rd, Middlebury, VT, 05753, USA.
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5
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Moran IL, Tidwell L, Barton M, Kile M, Miller P, Rohlman D, Seguinot-Medina S, Ungwiluk B, Waghiyi V, Anderson K. Diffusive fluxes of persistent organic pollutants between Arctic atmosphere, surface waters and sediments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 892:164566. [PMID: 37270011 PMCID: PMC10330832 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Arctic communities are disproportionately exposed to pollutants from sources including global atmospheric transport and formerly used defense sites (FUDS). The effects of climate change and increasing development in the Arctic have the potential to exacerbate this problem. Yupik People of Sivuqaq, or St Lawrence Island, Alaska are one such community with documented exposures to pollutants from FUDS, and their traditional lipid-rich foods such as blubber and rendered oils of marine mammals. Troutman Lake, adjacent to the Yupik community of Gambell, Alaska, was used as a disposal site during the decommission of the adjacent FUDS, leading to community concern about exposure to military pollution and intrusion from historic local dump sites. In collaboration with a local community group, this study utilized passive sampling devices deployed in Troutman Lake. Air, water and sediment deployed samplers were analyzed for unsubstituted and alkylated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), brominated and organophosphate flame retardants and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). PAH concentrations were low and comparable to other remote/rural locations. PAHs were generally in deposition from the overlying atmosphere into Troutman Lake. Of the flame retardants, brominated diphenyl ether-47 was detected in all surface water samplers while triphenyl phosphate was detected in all environmental compartments. Both were at concentrations equivalent or lower than other remote locations. Of particular interest, we measured higher atmospheric concentrations of tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) (0.75-2.8 ng/m3) than previously reported in the literature for remote Arctic sites (<0.017-0.56 ng/m3). TCEP was found to be in deposition to Troutman Lake at magnitudes from 290 to 1300 ng/m2/day. No PCBs were detected in this study. Our findings demonstrate the relevance of both modern and legacy chemicals from local and global sources. These results help us to understand the fate of anthropogenic contaminants in dynamic Arctic systems providing valuable data for communities, policy makers and scientists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian L Moran
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Lane Tidwell
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Michael Barton
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Molly Kile
- College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Pamela Miller
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Diana Rohlman
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA; College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | | | | | - Vi Waghiyi
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Kim Anderson
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA.
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Byrne S, Seguinot-Medina S, Waghiyi V, Apatiki E, Immingan T, Miller P, von Hippel FA, Buck CL, Carpenter DO. PFAS and PBDEs in traditional subsistence foods from Sivuqaq, Alaska. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:77145-77156. [PMID: 35672645 PMCID: PMC9588546 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20757-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The Arctic is a hemispheric sink for both legacy and current use persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Once in the Arctic, POPs biomagnify in food webs, potentially reaching concentrations in high trophic level animals that pose a health concern for people who subsist on those animals. Indigenous Peoples of the Arctic may be highly exposed to POPs through their traditional diets. The objective of this study was to assess concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in tissues of traditionally harvested foods from Sivuqaq (St. Lawrence Island), Alaska. Community health researchers identified volunteer households and local hunters to donate tissues from traditionally harvested animals. Target species included bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus), Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus), ringed seal (Pusa hispida), bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus), ribbon seal (Histriophoca fasciata), spotted seal (Phoca largha), and reindeer (Rangifer tarandus). PBDEs were frequently detected in all species and tissues. PBDE concentrations tended to be highest in lipid-rich tissues of seals. PFAS were infrequently detected and did not show obvious patterns among species or tissues. This and other studies demonstrate that POPs such as PBDEs are present in tissues of traditional food animals from Sivuqaq, as they are throughout the Arctic, and consumption of these animals likely contributes to exposure among Arctic Indigenous Peoples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Byrne
- Department of Biology, Global Health Program, Middlebury College, Bicentennial Hall, Bicentennial Way, VT, 05753, Middlebury, USA.
| | | | - Vi Waghiyi
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | | | | | - Pamela Miller
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Frank A von Hippel
- Department of Community, Environment & Policy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Charles Loren Buck
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - David O Carpenter
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
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7
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Jordan-Ward R, von Hippel FA, Zheng G, Salamova A, Dillon D, Gologergen J, Immingan T, Dominguez E, Miller P, Carpenter D, Postlethwait JH, Byrne S, Buck CL. Elevated mercury and PCB concentrations in Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma) collected near a formerly used defense site on Sivuqaq, Alaska. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 826:154067. [PMID: 35217049 PMCID: PMC9078153 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollution causes adverse health effects in many organisms and contributes to health disparities for Arctic communities that depend on subsistence foods, including the Yupik residents of Sivuqaq (St. Lawrence Island), Alaska. Sivuqaq's proximity to Russia made it a strategic location for U.S. military defense sites during the Cold War. Two radar surveillance stations were installed on Sivuqaq, including at the Northeast Cape. High levels of persistent organic pollutants and toxic metals continue to leach from the Northeast Cape formerly used defense (FUD) site despite remediation efforts. We quantified total mercury (Hg) and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations, and carbon and nitrogen stable isotope signatures, in skin and muscle samples from Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma), an important subsistence species. We found that Hg and PCB concentrations significantly differed across locations, with the highest concentrations found in fish collected near the FUD site. We found that 89% of fish collected from near the FUD site had Hg concentrations that exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) unlimited Hg-contaminated fish consumption screening level for subsistence fishers (0.049 μg/g). All fish sampled near the FUD site exceeded the EPA's PCB guidelines for cancer risk for unrestricted human consumption (0.0015 μg/g ww). Both Hg and PCB concentrations had a significant negative correlation with δ13C when sites receiving input from the FUD site were included in the analysis, but these relationships were insignificant when input sites were excluded. δ15N had a significant negative correlation with Hg concentration, but not with PCB concentration. These results suggest that the Northeast Cape FUD site remains a point source of Hg and PCB pollution and contributes to higher concentrations in resident fish, including subsistence species. Moreover, elevated Hg and PCB levels in fish near the FUD site may pose a health risk for Sivuqaq residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee Jordan-Ward
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
| | - Frank A von Hippel
- Department of Community, Environment and Policy, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, 1295 N. Martin Ave., P.O. Box 245210, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
| | - Guomao Zheng
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Amina Salamova
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Danielle Dillon
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
| | - Jesse Gologergen
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 1225 E. International Airport Road, Suite 220, Anchorage, AK 99518, USA
| | - Tiffany Immingan
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 1225 E. International Airport Road, Suite 220, Anchorage, AK 99518, USA
| | - Elliott Dominguez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
| | - Pamela Miller
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 1225 E. International Airport Road, Suite 220, Anchorage, AK 99518, USA
| | - David Carpenter
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, 5 University Place, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - John H Postlethwait
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Samuel Byrne
- Middlebury College, Department of Biology and Global Health Program, 14 Old Chapel Rd, Middlebury, VT 05753, USA
| | - C Loren Buck
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
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Using the Community Engagement Framework to Understand and Assess EJ-Related Research Efforts. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14052809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Within an environmental justice frame, capacity-building has been an important component of efforts to address health disparities at the policy, system, and environment levels. While the literature is replete with studies that discuss the necessity of collective action as a means to generate power to overcome inequities, limited attention has been given to the structure of these efforts to build capacity and challenge environmental injustices. This study applies the community engagement continuum as a framework for understanding the scope of capacity-building strategies and the manner in which research investigators engage with their intended target community. Paired teams of independent analysts screened articles for relevance (n = 8452), identified records for content abstraction (n = 163), and characterized relevant studies (n = 58). Many articles discussed community engagement as being either collaborative or shared leadership (n = 32, 55.2%). While the most commonly used capacity-building strategies were organizing/social action (58.6%) and CBPR (50%), few studies were able to make an environmental impact (n = 23; 39.7%), and fewer had a direct legislative policy-related outcome (n = 13; 22.4%). This review identifies levels of collaborative involvement and strategic approaches used for strengthening community capacity in efforts of making transformative policy, systems, and environmental change.
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Davis LF, Ramírez-Andreotta MD. Participatory Research for Environmental Justice: A Critical Interpretive Synthesis. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2021; 129:26001. [PMID: 33591210 PMCID: PMC7885999 DOI: 10.1289/ehp6274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental health risks are disproportionately colocated with communities in poverty and communities of color. In some cases, participatory research projects have effectively addressed structural causes of health risk in environmental justice (EJ) communities. However, many such projects fail to catalyze change at a structural level. OBJECTIVES This review employs Critical Interpretive Synthesis (CIS) to theorize specific elements of participatory research for environmental health that effectively prompt structural change in EJ communities. METHODS Academic database search was used to identify peer-reviewed literature describing participatory research with EJ communities to address environmental health. Synthetic constructs were developed iteratively related to study characteristics, design elements, and outcomes; and data were extracted for included records. Statistical analyses were performed to assess correlations between study design elements and structural change outcomes. Through critical, comparative, and contextual analyses of the "structural change" case study group and "non- structural change" group, informed by relevant theoretical literature, a synthesizing argument was generated. RESULTS From 505 total records identified, eligibility screening produced 232 case study articles, representing 154 case studies, and 55 theoretical articles for synthesis. Twenty-six case studies resulted in a structural change outcome. The synthesizing argument states that participatory research with EJ communities may be more likely to result in structural change when a) community members hold formal leadership roles; b) project design includes decision-makers and policy goals; and c) long term partnerships are sustained through multiple funding mechanisms. The assumption of EJ community benefit through research participation is critically examined. DISCUSSION Recommended future directions include establishing structural change as a goal of participatory research, employing participatory assessment of community benefit, and increased hiring of faculty of color at research institutions. The power, privilege, and political influence that academic institutions are able to leverage in partnership with EJ communities may be as valuable as the research itself. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP6274.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leona F Davis
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Mónica D Ramírez-Andreotta
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- Division of Community, Environment & Policy, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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Williamson DHZ, Yu EX, Hunter CM, Kaufman JA, Komro K, Jelks NO, Johnson DA, Gribble MO, Kegler MC. A Scoping Review of Capacity-Building Efforts to Address Environmental Justice Concerns. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E3765. [PMID: 32466474 PMCID: PMC7312702 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17113765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Environmental justice (EJ) efforts aimed at capacity building are essential to addressing environmental health disparities; however, limited attention has been given to describing these efforts. This study reports findings from a scoping review of community-academic partnerships and community-led efforts to address environmental inequities related to air, water, and land pollution in the United States. Literature published in peer-reviewed journals from January 1986 through March 2018 were included, and community capacity theory was applied as a framework for understanding the scope of capacity-building and community change strategies to address EJ concerns. Paired teams of independent analysts conducted a search for relevant articles (n = 8452 citations identified), filtered records for content abstraction and possible inclusion (n = 163) and characterized selected studies (n = 58). Most articles implemented activities that were aligned with community capacity dimensions of citizen participation (96.4%, n = 53), community power (78%, n = 45), leadership (78%, n = 45), and networks (81%, n = 47); few articles identified a direct policy change (22%, n = 13), and many articles discussed the policy implications of findings for future work (62%, n = 36). This review synthesizes three decades of efforts to reduce environmental inequities and identifies strategic approaches used for strengthening community capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana H. Z. Williamson
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (K.K.); (M.C.K.)
| | - Emma X. Yu
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (E.X.Y.); (C.M.H.); (M.O.G.)
| | - Candis M. Hunter
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (E.X.Y.); (C.M.H.); (M.O.G.)
| | - John A. Kaufman
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (J.A.K.); (D.A.J.)
| | - Kelli Komro
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (K.K.); (M.C.K.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (J.A.K.); (D.A.J.)
| | | | - Dayna A. Johnson
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (J.A.K.); (D.A.J.)
| | - Matthew O. Gribble
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (E.X.Y.); (C.M.H.); (M.O.G.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (J.A.K.); (D.A.J.)
| | - Michelle C. Kegler
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (K.K.); (M.C.K.)
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Symanski E, An Han H, Hopkins L, Smith MA, McCurdy S, Han I, Jimenez M, Markham C, Richner D, James D, Flores J. Metal air pollution partnership solutions: building an academic-government-community-industry collaboration to improve air quality and health in environmental justice communities in Houston. Environ Health 2020; 19:39. [PMID: 32248802 PMCID: PMC7133016 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-020-00590-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND From 2006 to 2011, the City of Houston received nearly 200 community complaints about air pollution coming from some metal recycling facilities. The investigation by the Houston Health Department (HHD) found that while operating within legal limits, emissions from facilities that use torch cutting, a technique generating metal aerosols, may increase health risks for neighboring residents. Choosing to use collaborative problem solving over legislative rulemaking, HHD reached out to The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) to further evaluate and develop plans to mitigate, if necessary, health risks associated with metal emissions from these facilities. METHODS Utilizing a community-based participatory research approach, we constituted a research team from academia, HHD and an air quality advocacy group and a Community Advisory Board (CAB) to draw diverse stakeholders (i.e., frustrated and concerned residents and wary facility managers acting within their legal rights) into an equitable, trusting and respectful space to work together. Next, we investigated metal air pollution and inhalation health risks of adults living near metal recyclers and ascertained community views about environmental health using key informant interviews, focus groups and surveys. Finally, working collaboratively with the CAB, we developed neighborhood-specific public health action plans to address research findings. RESULTS After overcoming challenges, the CAB evolved into an effective partnership with greater trust, goodwill, representation and power among members. Working together to translate and share health risk assessment results increased accessibility of the information. These results, coupled to community survey findings, set the groundwork for developing and implementing a stakeholder-informed action plan, which included a voluntary framework to reduce metal emissions in the scrap yard, improved lines of communication and environmental health leadership training. Tangible outcomes of enhanced capacity of our community and governmental partners included trained residents to conduct door-to-door surveys, adaptation of our field training protocol and survey by our community partner and development of a successful HHD program to engage residents to improve environmental health in their neighborhood. CONCLUSIONS Academic-government-community-industry partnerships can reduce environmental health disparities in underserved neighborhoods near industrial facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Symanski
- Center for Precision Environmental Health and Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030-3411 USA
| | - Heyreoun An Han
- Southwest Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, 1200 Pressler, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Loren Hopkins
- Department of Statistics, MS 138, Rice University, Houston, TX 77251 USA
| | - Mary Ann Smith
- Southwest Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, 1200 Pressler, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Sheryl McCurdy
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Inkyu Han
- Southwest Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, 1200 Pressler, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Maria Jimenez
- Southwest Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, 1200 Pressler, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Christine Markham
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Donald Richner
- Bureau of Pollution Control and Prevention, Houston Health Department, 7411 Park Place Blvd, Houston, TX 77087 USA
| | - Daisy James
- Bureau of Pollution Control and Prevention, Houston Health Department, 7411 Park Place Blvd, Houston, TX 77087 USA
| | - Juan Flores
- Air Alliance Houston, 2520 Caroline, Houston, TX 77004 USA
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Isaac G, Finn S, Joe JR, Hoover E, Gone JP, Lefthand-Begay C, Hill S. Native American Perspectives on Health and Traditional Ecological Knowledge. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2018; 126:125002. [PMID: 30675814 PMCID: PMC6371761 DOI: 10.1289/ehp1944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is a conceptual framework that highlights Indigenous knowledge (IK) systems. Although scientific literature has noted the relevance of TEK for environmental research since the 1980s, little attention has been given to how Native American (NA) scholars engage with it to shape tribal-based research on health, nor how non-Native scholars can coordinate their approaches with TEK. This coordination is of particular importance for environmental health sciences (EHS) research exploring interdisciplinary approaches and the integration of environmental and human health. OBJECTIVE Our perspective on TEK arose from a series of Health and Culture Research Group (HCRG) workshops that identified gaps in existing EHS methodologies that are based on a reliance on Euro-American concepts for assessing environmental exposures in tribal communities. These prior methods neither take into account cultural behavior nor community responses to these. Our objective is to consider NA perspectives on TEK when analyzing relationships between health and the environment and to look at how these may be applied to address this gap. DISCUSSION The authors—the majority of whom are NA scholars—highlight two research areas that consider health from a TEK perspective: food systems and knowledge of medicinal plants. This research has yielded data, methods, and knowledge that have helped Indigenous communities better define and reduce health risks and protect local natural food resources, and this TEK approach may prove of value to EHS research. CONCLUSION NA perspectives on TEK resulting from the HCRG workshops provide an opportunity for developing more accurate Indigenous health indicators (IHI) reflecting the conceptualizations of health maintained in these communities. This approach has the potential to bridge the scientific study of exposure with methods addressing a tribal perspective on the sociocultural determinants of health, identifying potential new areas of inquiry in EHS that afford nuanced evaluations of exposures and outcomes in tribal communities. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP1944.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwyneira Isaac
- Department of Anthropology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Symma Finn
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jennie R. Joe
- Department of Family and Community Medicine in the College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Elizabeth Hoover
- Department of American Studies, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Joseph P. Gone
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Stewart Hill
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Manitoba, Manitoba, Canada
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Sawatzky A, Cunsolo A, Jones-Bitton A, Middleton J, Harper SL. Responding to Climate and Environmental Change Impacts on Human Health via Integrated Surveillance in the Circumpolar North: A Systematic Realist Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E2706. [PMID: 30513697 PMCID: PMC6313572 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15122706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Environments are shifting rapidly in the Circumpolar Arctic and Subarctic regions as a result of climate change and other external stressors, and this has a substantial impact on the health of northern populations. Thus, there is a need for integrated surveillance systems designed to monitor the impacts of climate change on human health outcomes as part of broader adaptation strategies in these regions. This review aimed to identify, describe, and synthesize literature on integrated surveillance systems in Circumpolar Arctic and Subarctic regions, that are used for research or practice. Following a systematic realist review approach, relevant articles were identified using search strings developed for MEDLINE® and Web of Science™ databases, and screened by two independent reviewers. Articles that met the inclusion criteria were retained for descriptive quantitative analysis, as well as thematic qualitative analysis, using a realist lens. Of the 3431 articles retrieved in the database searches, 85 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Thematic analysis identified components of integrated surveillance systems that were categorized into three main groups: structural, processual, and relational components. These components were linked to surveillance attributes and activities that supported the operations and management of integrated surveillance. This review advances understandings of the distinct contributions of integrated surveillance systems and data to discerning the nature of changes in climate and environmental conditions that affect population health outcomes and determinants in the Circumpolar North. Findings from this review can be used to inform the planning, design, and evaluation of integrated surveillance systems that support evidence-based public health research and practice in the context of increasing climate change and the need for adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Sawatzky
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Ashlee Cunsolo
- Labrador Institute of Memorial University, 219 Hamilton River Road, P.O. Box 490, Stn. B, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL A0P 1E0, Canada.
| | - Andria Jones-Bitton
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Jacqueline Middleton
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Sherilee L Harper
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 116 St. and 85 Ave., Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada.
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Young A, Nicholas DB, Chamberlain SP, Suapa N, Gale N, Bailey AJ. Exploring and building autism service capacity in rural and remote regions: Participatory action research in rural Alberta and British Columbia, Canada. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2018; 23:1143-1151. [DOI: 10.1177/1362361318801340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Nancy Gale
- Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre, Canada
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Byrne SC, Miller P, Seguinot-Medina S, Waghiyi V, Buck CL, von Hippel FA, Carpenter DO. Exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances and associations with serum thyroid hormones in a remote population of Alaska Natives. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 166:537-543. [PMID: 29958161 PMCID: PMC6932630 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/09/2018] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are known to accumulate in traditional food animals of the Arctic, and arctic indigenous peoples may be exposed via consumption of subsistence-harvested animals. PFASs are suspected of disrupting thyroid hormone homeostasis in humans. The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between serum PFASs and thyroid function in a remote population of Alaska Natives. Serum samples were collected from 85 individuals from St. Lawrence Island, Alaska. The concentrations of 13 PFASs, as well as free and total thyroxine (T4), free and total triiodothyronine (T3), and thyrotropin (TSH) were quantified in serum samples. The relationships between circulating concentrations of PFASs and thyroid hormones were assessed using multiple linear regression fit with generalized estimating equations. Several PFASs, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), were positively associated with TSH concentrations when modeled individually. PFOS and PFNA were significantly associated with free T3 and PFNA was significantly associated with total T3 in models with PFAS*sex interactive terms; these associations suggested negative associations in men and positive associations in women. PFASs were not significantly associated with concentrations of free or total T4. Serum PFASs are associated with circulating thyroid hormone concentrations in a remote population of Alaska Natives. The effects of PFAS exposure on thyroid hormone homeostasis may differ between sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel C Byrne
- Environmental Studies, St. Lawrence University, 23 Romoda Drive, Canton, NY, USA.
| | - Pamela Miller
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | | | - Vi Waghiyi
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - C Loren Buck
- Department of Biological Sciences & Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Frank A von Hippel
- Department of Biological Sciences & Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - David O Carpenter
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY, USA
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von Hippel FA, Miller PK, Carpenter DO, Dillon D, Smayda L, Katsiadaki I, Titus TA, Batzel P, Postlethwait JH, Buck CL. Endocrine disruption and differential gene expression in sentinel fish on St. Lawrence Island, Alaska: Health implications for indigenous residents. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 234:279-287. [PMID: 29182972 PMCID: PMC5809177 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.11.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
People living a subsistence lifestyle in the Arctic are highly exposed to persistent organic pollutants, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Formerly Used Defense (FUD) sites are point sources of PCB pollution; the Arctic contains thousands of FUD sites, many co-located with indigenous villages. We investigated PCB profiles and biological effects in freshwater fish (Alaska blackfish [Dallia pectoralis] and ninespine stickleback [Pungitius pungitius]) living upstream and downstream of the Northeast Cape FUD site on St. Lawrence Island in the Bering Sea. Despite extensive site remediation, fish remained contaminated with PCBs. Vitellogenin concentrations in males indicated exposure to estrogenic contaminants, and some fish were hypothyroid. Downstream fish showed altered DNA methylation in gonads and altered gene expression related to DNA replication, response to DNA damage, and cell signaling. This study demonstrates that, even after site remediation, contaminants from Cold War FUD sites in remote regions of the Arctic remain a potential health threat to local residents - in this case, Yupik people who had no influence over site selection and use by the United States military.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank A von Hippel
- Department of Biological Sciences & Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., PO Box 5640, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA.
| | - Pamela K Miller
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 505 W. Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 205, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA
| | - David O Carpenter
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, 5 University Place, Room A217, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - Danielle Dillon
- Department of Biological Sciences & Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., PO Box 5640, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
| | - Lauren Smayda
- Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, 4000 Ambassador Dr., Anchorage, AK 99508, USA
| | - Ioanna Katsiadaki
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences (Cefas), The Nothe, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Tom A Titus
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, 222 Huestis Hall, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Peter Batzel
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, 222 Huestis Hall, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - John H Postlethwait
- Institute of Neuroscience, University of Oregon, 1254 University of Oregon, 222 Huestis Hall, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - C Loren Buck
- Department of Biological Sciences & Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona University, 617 S. Beaver St., PO Box 5640, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
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Byrne S, Miller P, Waghiyi V, Buck CL, von Hippel FA, Carpenter DO. Persistent Organochlorine Pesticide Exposure Related to a Formerly Used Defense Site on St. Lawrence Island, Alaska: Data from Sentinel Fish and Human Sera. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2015; 78:976-92. [PMID: 26262441 PMCID: PMC4547524 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2015.1037412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
St. Lawrence Island, Alaska, is the largest island in the Bering Sea, located 60 km from Siberia. The island is home to approximately 1600 St. Lawrence Island Yupik residents who live a subsistence way of life. Two formerly used defense sites (FUDS) exist on the island, one of which, Northeast Cape, has been the subject of a $123 million cleanup effort. Environmental monitoring demonstrates localized soil and watershed contamination with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), organochlorine (OC) pesticides, mercury, and arsenic. This study examined whether the Northeast Cape FUDS is a source of exposure to OC pesticides. In total, 71 serum samples were collected during site remediation from volunteers who represented three geographic regions of the island. In addition, ninespine stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) and Alaska blackfish (Dallia pectoralis) were collected from Northeast Cape after remediation to assess continuing presence of OC pesticides. Chlordane compounds, DDT compounds, mirex, and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) were the most prevalent and present at the highest concentrations in both fish tissues and human serum samples. After controlling for age and gender, activities near the Northeast Cape FUDS were associated with an increase in serum HCB as compared to residents of the farthest village from the site. Positive but nonsignificant relationships for sum-chlordane and sum-DDT were also found. Organochlorine concentrations in fish samples did not show clear geographic trends, but appear elevated compared to other sites in Alaska. Taken together, data suggest that contamination of the local environment at the Northeast Cape FUDS may increase exposure to select persistent OC pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Byrne
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, 5 University Place, Rm 217A, Rensselaer, NY, 12144 () ()
| | - Pamela Miller
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 505 West Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 205, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA () ()
| | - Viola Waghiyi
- Alaska Community Action on Toxics, 505 West Northern Lights Blvd., Suite 205, Anchorage, AK 99503, USA () ()
| | - C. Loren Buck
- Department of Biological Sciences, 3211 Providence Dr, University of Alaska, Anchorage, AK 99508, USA () ()
| | - Frank A. von Hippel
- Department of Biological Sciences, 3211 Providence Dr, University of Alaska, Anchorage, AK 99508, USA () ()
| | - David O. Carpenter
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, 5 University Place, Rm 217A, Rensselaer, NY, 12144 () ()
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