Organophosphate pesticide exposure and perinatal outcomes in Shanghai,China

Although pesticide use is widespread in China, little is known about levels of exposure to organophosphate pesticides in the population and its potential adverse health effects. We investigated levels of organophosphate exposure in pregnant women and the association between organophosphate exposure and perinatal outcomes in Shanghai, China, by enrolling 187 healthy pregnant women between September 2006 and January 2007. Pesticide exposure was assessed by a questionnaire administered to the mothers in the hospital after delivery as well as by analyses of maternal urinary nonspecific metabolites of organophosphate pesticides (dimethyl and diethyl phosphates). Information on birth weight and length was collected from medical records. Geometric means of metabolites were 25.75 μg/L for dimethylphosphate (DMP); 11.99 μg/L for dimethylthiophosphate (DMTP); 9.03 μg/L for diethylphosphate (DEP); and 9.45 μg/L for diethyldithiophosphate (DETP). We found that a log unit increase in urinary DEP was associated with a decrease in gestational duration in girls by 1.79 weeks. [ß_adjusted = − 1.79 weeks per log₁₀ unit increase; 95% confidence interval (CI), −2.82 to − 0.76; p = 0.001]. These data suggest that high pesticide level might adversely affect duration of gestation although this association was not present among boys. No associations for any of the organophosphate exposure measures were present for birth weight and length, suggesting that organophosphate pesticides may have no effects on fetal growth. Given that maternal urine pesticide levels in Shanghai were much higher than those reported in developed countries, more studies on the effects of in utero organophosphate exposure on fetal growth and child neurodevelopment are warranted.     

Persistent organic pollutants exposure during pregnancy,maternal gestational weight gain,and birth outcomes in the mother–child cohort in Crete,Greece (RHEA study)

BackgroundPersistent organic pollutants (POPs), including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and pesticides bioaccumulate through the food chain and cross the placenta. POPs are developmental toxicants in animals but the epidemiological evidence on pregnancy outcomes is inconsistent. Maternal gestational weight gain has been recently suggested as a key factor explaining the association between PCBs with lower birth weight.AimsWe examined whether in utero exposure to current low levels of different POPs is associated with fetal growth and gestational age in a mother–child cohort in Crete, Greece (Rhea study), and evaluated specifically whether maternal gestational weight gain may affect this association.MethodsWe included 1117 mothers and their newborns from the Rhea study. Mothers were interviewed and blood samples collected during the first trimester of pregnancy. Information on birth outcomes was retrieved from medical records. Concentrations of several PCBs, other organochlorine compounds (dichlorodiphenyl dichloroethene [DDE], dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane [DDT] and hexachlorobenzene [HCB]) and one polybrominated diphenyl ether congener (tetra-bromodiphenyl ether [BDE-47]), were determined in maternal serum by triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Multiple linear regression models were used to investigate the associations of birth weight, gestational age, and head circumference with each compound individually on the log₁₀ scale, and with combined exposures through the development of an exposure score.ResultsIn multivariate models, birth weight was negatively associated with increasing levels of HCB (β = − 161.1 g; 95% CI: − 296.6, − 25.7) and PCBs (β = − 174.1 g; 95% CI: − 332.4, − 15.9); after further adjustment for gestational weight gain these estimates were slightly reduced (β = − 154.3 g; 95% CI: − 300.8, − 7.9 for HCB and β = − 135.7 g; 95% CI: − 315.4, 43.9 for PCBs). Furthermore, in stratified analysis, the association between POPs and birth weight was only observed in women with inadequate or excessive gestational weight gain. Small, negative associations were observed with head circumference while no association was observed with gestational age.ConclusionsThe findings suggest that prenatal exposure to PCBs and HCB impairs fetal growth and adds to the growing literature that demonstrates an association between low-level environmental pollutant exposure and fetal growth. Furthermore our results suggest that the association of POPs, maternal gestational weight gain and birth weight is probably more complex than that previously hypothesized.     

Farm residence and reproductive health among boys in rural South Africa

BackgroundFew studies have investigated reproductive health effects of contemporary agricultural pesticides in boys.ObjectivesTo determine the association between pesticide exposure and reproductive health of boys.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study in rural South Africa of boys living on and off farms. The study included a questionnaire (demographics, general and reproductive health, phyto-estrogen intake, residential history, pesticide exposures, exposures during pregnancy); and a physical examination that included sexual maturity development ratings; testicular volume; height, weight, body mass index; and sex hormone concentrations.ResultsAmong the 269 boys recruited into the study, 177 (65.8%) were categorized as farm (high pesticide exposures) and 98 (34.2%) as non-farm residents (lower pesticide exposures). Median ages of the two groups were 11.3 vs 12.0 years, respectively (p < 0.05). After controlling for confounders that included socioeconomic status, farm boys were shorter (regression coefficient (RC) = − 3.42 cm; 95% confidence interval (CI): − 6.38 to − 0.45 cm) and weighed less (RC = − 2.26 kg; CI: − 4.44 to − 0.75 kg). The farm boys also had lower serum lutenizing hormone (RC = − 0.28 IU/L; CI: − 0.48 to − 0.08 IU/L), but higher serum oestradiol (RC = 8.07 pmol/L; CI: 2.34–13.81 pmol/L) and follicle stimulating hormone (RC = 0.63 IU/L; CI: 0.19–1.08 U/L).ConclusionsOur study provides evidence that farm residence is associated with adverse growth and reproductive health of pubertal boys which may be due to environmental exposures to hormonally active contemporary agricultural pesticides.     

Association between maternal exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) from electronic waste recycling and neonatal health outcomes

ObjectivePerfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) has applications in numerous industrial and consumer products. The widespread prevalence of PFOA in humans demonstrated in recent studies has drawn considerable interest from the public. We aimed to evaluate the exposure of mothers to PFOA and the potential hazards to neonates in a primitive electronic waste recycling area, Guiyu, China, and a control area, Chaonan, China.MethodsOur investigation included analyses of maternal serum samples, health effect examinations, and other relevant factors. Questionnaires were administered and maternal serum samples were collected for 167 pregnant women. Solid phase extraction method was used for all analytical sample preparation, and analyses were completed using high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method.ResultsThe PFOA concentration was higher in maternal serum samples from Guiyu than in samples from Chaonan (median 16.95, range 5.5–58.5 ng mL^− 1; vs. 8.7, range 4.4–30.0 ng mL^− 1; P < 0.001). Residence in Guiyu, involvement in e-waste recycling, husband's involvement in e-waste and use of the family residence as workshop were significant factors contributing to PFOA exposure. Maternal PFOA concentrations were significantly different between normal births and adverse birth outcomes including premature delivery, term low birth weight, and stillbirths. After adjusting for potential confounders, PFOA was negatively associated with gestational age [per lg-unit: β = − 15.99 days, 95% confidence interval (CI), − 27.72 to − 4.25], birth weight (per lg-unit: β = − 267.3 g, 95% CI, − 573.27 to − 37.18), birth length (per lg-unit: β = − 1.91 cm, 95% CI, − 3.31 to − 0.52), and Apgar scores (per lg-unit: β = − 1.37, 95% CI, − 2.42 to − 0.32), but not associated with ponderal index.ConclusionsMothers from Guiyu were exposed to higher levels of PFOA than those from control areas. Prenatal exposure to PFOA was associated with decreased neonatal physical development and adverse birth outcomes.     

Umbilical cord blood PBDEs concentrations are associated with placental DNA methylation

BackgroundIn utero polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) exposure has been associated with adverse fetal growth. Alterations in placental DNA methylation might mediate those adverse effects.ObjectivesTo examine the associations between in utero PBDEs exposure and DNA methylation in human placenta.MethodsEighty apparently healthy mother-newborn pairs delivering at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical College were enrolled in this study. Placental DNA methylation of LINE1, NR3C1 and IGF2 was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction-pyrosequencing. In utero PBDEs exposure was assessed by measuring umbilical cord blood PBDEs concentrations.ResultsFor LINE-1, higher levels of BDE-66 exposure were associated with decreased DNA methylation (β = − 0.9, 95% CI, − 1.8 to − 0.1); For NR3C1, BDE-153 concentrations was significantly inversely associated with DNA methylation (β = − 2.0, 95% CI, − 3.7 to − 0.2); For IGF2, elevated concentrations of both BDE-153 (β = − 1.7; 95% CI, − 3.0 to − 0.4) and BDE-209 (β = − 1.0; 95% CI, − 1. 9 to − 0.1) were significantly associated with decreased DNA methylation.ConclusionsWe found that placental DNA methylation is associated with in utero PBDEs exposure. Changes in placental DNA methylation might be part of the underlying biological pathway between in utero PBDEs exposure and adverse fetal growth.     

Protective glove use and hygiene habits modify the associations of specific pesticides with Parkinson's disease

Pesticides have been associated with Parkinson's disease (PD), and protective gloves and workplace hygiene can reduce pesticide exposure. We assessed whether use of gloves and workplace hygiene modified associations between pesticides and PD. The Farming and Movement Evaluation (FAME) study is a nested case–control study within the Agricultural Health Study. Use of protective gloves, other PPE, and hygiene practices were determined by questionnaire (69 cases and 237 controls were included). We considered interactions of gloves and hygiene with ever-use of pesticides for all pesticides with ≥ 5 exposed and unexposed cases and controls in each glove-use stratum (paraquat, permethrin, rotenone, and trifluralin). 61% of respondents consistently used protective gloves and 87% consistently used ≥ 2 hygiene practices. Protective glove use modified the associations of paraquat and permethrin with PD: neither pesticide was associated with PD among protective glove users, while both pesticides were associated with PD among non-users (paraquat OR 3.9 [95% CI 1.3, 11.7], interaction p = 0.15; permethrin OR 4.3 [95% CI 1.2, 15.6] interaction p = 0.05). Rotenone was associated with PD regardless of glove use. Trifluralin was associated with PD among participants who used < 2 hygiene practices (OR 5.5 [95% CI 1.1, 27.1]) but was not associated with PD among participants who used 2 or more practices (interaction p = 0.02). Although sample size was limited in the FAME study, protective glove use and hygiene practices appeared to be important modifiers of the association between pesticides and PD and may reduce risk of PD associated with certain pesticides.     

Associations between maternal exposure to air pollution and traffic noise and newborn's size at birth: A cohort study

BackgroundMaternal exposure to air pollution and traffic noise has been suggested to impair fetal growth, but studies have reported inconsistent findings.ObjectiveTo investigate associations between residential air pollution and traffic noise during pregnancy and newborn's size at birth.MethodsFrom a national birth cohort we identified 75,166 live-born singletons born at term with information on the children's size at birth. Residential address history from conception until birth was collected and air pollution (NO₂ and NO_x) and road traffic noise was modeled at all addresses. Associations between exposures and indicators of newborn's size at birth: birth weight, placental weight and head and abdominal circumference were analyzed by linear and logistic regression, and adjusted for potential confounders.ResultsIn mutually adjusted models we found a 10 μg/m³ higher time-weighted mean exposure to NO₂ during pregnancy to be associated with a 0.35 mm smaller head circumference (95% confidence interval (CI): 95% CI: − 0.57; − 0.12); a 0.50 mm smaller abdominal circumference (95% CI: − 0.80; − 0.20) and a 5.02 g higher placental weight (95% CI: 2.93; 7.11). No associations were found between air pollution and birth weight. Exposure to residential road traffic noise was weakly associated with reduced head circumference, whereas none of the other newborn's size indicators were associated with noise, neither before nor after adjustment for air pollution.ConclusionsThis study indicates that air pollution may result in a small reduction in offspring's birth head and abdominal circumference, but not birth weight, whereas traffic noise seems not to affect newborn's size at birth.     

Maternal dietary intake of dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls and birth size in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa)

Maternal diet not only provides essential nutrients to the developing fetus but is also a source of prenatal exposure to environmental contaminants. We investigated the association between dietary intake of dioxins and PCBs during pregnancy and birth size. The study included 50,651 women from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa). Dietary information was collected by FFQs and intake estimates were calculated by combining food consumption and food concentration of dioxins, dioxin-like PCBs and non-dioxin-like PCBs. We used multivariable regression models to estimate the association between dietary intake of dioxins and PCBs and fetal growth. The contribution of fish and seafood intake during pregnancy was 41% for dietary dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs and 49% for dietary non-dioxin-like PCBs. Further stratified analysis by quartiles of seafood intake during pregnancy was conducted. We found an inverse dose–response association between dietary intake of dioxins and PCBs and fetal growth after adjustment for confounders. Newborns of mothers in the upper quartile of dioxin and dioxin-like PCBs intake had 62 g lower birth weight (95% CI: − 73, − 50), 0.26 cm shorter birth length (95% CI: − 0.31, − 0.20) and 0.10 cm shorter head circumference (95% CI: − 0.14, − 0.06) than newborns of mothers in the lowest quartile of intake. Similar negative associations for intake of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs were found after excluding women with intakes above the tolerable weekly intake (TWI = 14 pg TEQ/kg bw/week). The negative association of dietary dioxins and PCBs with fetal growth was weaker as seafood intake was increasing. No association was found between dietary dioxin and PCB intake and the risk for small-for-gestational age neonate. In conclusion, dietary intakes of dioxins and PCBs during pregnancy were negatively associated with fetal growth, even at intakes below the TWI.     

Baseline blood trihalomethanes,semen parameters and serum total testosterone: A cross-sectional study in China

Toxicological studies showed that trihalomethanes (THMs), the most abundant classes of disinfection by-products (DBPs) in drinking water, impaired male reproductive health, but epidemiological evidence is limited and inconsistent. This study aimed to examine the associations of baseline blood THMs with semen parameters and serum total testosterone in a Chinese population. We recruited 401 men seeking semen examination from the Reproductive Center of Tongji Hospital in Wuhan, China between April 2011 and May 2012. Baseline blood concentrations of THMs, including chloroform (TCM), bromodichloromethane (BDCM), dibromochloromethane (DBCM), and bromoform (TBM) were measured using SPME-GC/ECD method. Semen quality and serum total testosterone were analyzed. Multivariable linear regressions were used to assess the associations of baseline blood THM concentrations with semen parameters and serum total testosterone levels. We found that baseline blood THM concentrations were not associated with decrements in sperm motility, sperm straight-line and curvilinear velocity. However, moderate levels of BDCM (β = − 0.13 million; 95% CI: − 0.22, − 0.03) and DBCM (β = − 4.74%; 95% CI: − 8.07, − 1.42) were associated with decreased sperm count and declined sperm linearity compared with low levels, respectively. Suggestive dose–response relationships were also observed between elevated blood TCM or ∑ THMs (sum of TCM, BDCM, DBCM and TBM) concentration and decreased sperm concentration (both p for trend = 0.07), and between elevated blood DBCM concentration and decreased serum total testosterone (p for trend = 0.07). Our results indicate that elevated THM exposure may lead to decreased sperm concentration and serum total testosterone. However, the effects of THM exposure on male reproductive health still warrant further studies in humans.     

Effects of cell phone use on semen parameters: Results from the MARHCS cohort study in Chongqing,China

Epidemiological and experimental evidence for detrimental effects of cell phone use on semen quality is still equivocal. And that recruiting participants from infertility clinic not from general population may raise the possibility of a selection bias. To investigate effects of cell phone use on semen parameters in a general population,We screened and documented the cell phone use information of 794 young men from the Male Reproductive Health in Chongqing College students (MARHCS) cohort study in 2013, followed by 666 and 568 in 2014 and 2015, respectively. In the univariate regression analyses, we found that the daily duration of talking on the cell phone was significantly associated with decreased semen parameters, including sperm concentration [β coefficient = − 6.32% per unit daily duration of talking on the cell phone (h); 95% confidence interval (CI), − 11.94, − 0.34] and total sperm count (− 8.23; 95% CI, − 14.38, − 1.63) in 2013; semen volume (− 8.37; 95% CI, − 15.93, − 0.13) and total sperm count (− 16.59; 95% CI, − 29.91, − 0.73) in 2015]. Internet use via cellular networks was also associated with decreased sperm concentration and total sperm counts in 2013 and decreased semen volume in 2015. Multivariate analyses were used to adjust for the effects of potential confounders, and significant negative associations between internet use and semen parameters remained. Consistent but nonsignificant negative associations between talking on the cell phone and semen parameters persisted throughout the three study years, and the negative association was statistically significant in a mixed model that considered all three years of data on talking on the cell phone and semen quality. Our results showed that certain aspects of cell phone use may negatively affect sperm quality in men by decreasing the semen volume, sperm concentration, or sperm count, thus impairing male fertility.     

Dietary benzo(a)pyrene intake during pregnancy and birth weight: Associations modified by vitamin C intakes in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa)

BackgroundMaternal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) during pregnancy has been associated with reduced fetal growth. However, the role of diet, the main source of PAH exposure among non-smokers, remains uncertain.ObjectiveTo assess associations between maternal exposure to dietary intake of the genotoxic PAH benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P] during pregnancy and birth weight, exploring potential effect modification by dietary intakes of vitamins C, E and A, hypothesized to influence PAH metabolism.MethodsThis study included 50,651 women in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa). Dietary B(a)P and nutrient intakes were estimated based on total consumption obtained from a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and estimated based on food composition data. Data on infant birth weight were obtained from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway (MBRN). Multivariate regression was used to assess associations between dietary B(a)P and birth weight, evaluating potential interactions with candidate nutrients.ResultsThe multivariate-adjusted coefficient (95%CI) for birth weight associated with maternal energy-adjusted B(a)P intake was − 20.5 g (− 31.1, − 10.0) in women in the third compared with the first tertile of B(a)P intake. Results were similar after excluding smokers. Significant interactions were found between elevated intakes of vitamin C (> 85 mg/day) and dietary B(a)P during pregnancy for birth weight (P < 0.05), but no interactions were found with other vitamins. The multivariate-adjusted coefficients (95%CI) for birth weight in women in the third compared with the first tertile of B(a)P intake were − 44.4 g (− 76.5, − 12.3) in the group with low vitamin C intakes vs. − 17.6 g (− 29.0, − 6.1) in the high vitamin C intake group.ConclusionThe results suggest that higher prenatal exposure to dietary B(a)P may reduce birth weight. Lowering maternal intake of B(a)P and increasing dietary vitamin C intake during pregnancy may help to reduce any adverse effects of B(a)P on birth weight.     

Occupational exposure to asthmagens and adult onset wheeze and lung function in people who did not have childhood wheeze: A 50-year cohort study

BackgroundThere are few prospective studies that relate the development of adult respiratory disease with exposure to occupational asthmagens.ObjectiveTo evaluate the risk of adult onset wheeze (AOW) and obstructive lung function associated with occupational exposures over 50 years.MethodsA population-based randomly selected cohort of children who had not had asthma or wheezing illness, recruited in 1964 at age 10–15 years, was followed-up in 1989, 1995, 2001 and 2014 by spirometry and respiratory questionnaire. Occupational histories were obtained in 2014 and occupational exposures determined with an asthma-specific job exposure matrix. The risk of AOW and lung function impairment was analysed in subjects without childhood wheeze using logistic regression and linear mixed effects models.ResultsAll 237 subjects (mean age: 61 years, 47% male, 52% ever smoked) who took part in the 2014 follow-up had completed spirometry. Among those who did not have childhood wheeze, spirometry was measured in 93 subjects in 1989, in 312 in 1995 and in 270 subjects in 2001 follow-up. For longitudinal analysis of changes in FEV₁ between 1989 and 2014 spirometry records were available on 191 subjects at three time points and on 45 subjects at two time points, with a total number of 663 records. AOW and FEV₁ < LLN were associated with occupational exposure to food-related asthmagens (adjusted odds ratios (adjORs) 95% CI: 2.7 [1.4, 5.1] and 2.9 [1.1, 7.7]) and biocides/fungicides (adjOR 95% CI: 1.8 [1.1, 3.1] and 3.4 [1.1, 10.8]), with evident dose-response effect (p-trends < 0.05). Exposure to food-related asthmagens was also associated with reduced FEV₁, FVC and FEF_25–75% (adjusted regression coefficients 95% CI: − 7.2 [− 12.0, − 2.4], − 6.2 [− 10.9, − 1.4], and − 13.3[− 23.4, − 3.3]). Exposure to wood dust was independently associated with AOW, obstructive lung function and reduced FEF_25–75%. Excess FEV₁ decline of 6-8ml/year was observed with occupational exposure to any asthmagen, biocides/fungicides and food-related asthmagens (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThis longitudinal study confirmed previous findings of increased risks of adult onset wheezing illness with occupational exposure to specific asthmagens. A novel finding was the identification of food-related asthmagens and biocides/fungicides as potential new occupational risk factors for lung function impairment in adults without childhood wheeze.     

Perinatal exposure to dioxins and dioxin-like compounds and infant growth and body mass index at seven years: A pooled analysis of three European birth cohorts

BackgroundDioxins and dioxin-like compounds are endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Experimental studies suggest perinatal exposure to EDCs results in later obesity. However, the few epidemiological investigations on dioxins are inconclusive. We investigated perinatal exposure to dioxins and dioxin-like compounds, infant growth and body mass index (BMI) in childhood.MethodsWe pooled data from 3 European birth cohorts (Belgian, Norwegian, Slovak) with exposure assessment in cord blood or breast milk. Two cohorts had dioxin-like toxicity assessed using dioxin-responsive chemical-activated luciferase expression (DR-CALUX) bioassay and one cohort had measured concentrations of dioxins, furans and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenols with CALUX relative potency values applied. Growth was cohort- and sex-specific change in weight-for-age z-score between birth and 24 months (N = 367). BMI was calculated at around 7 years (median 7.17, interquartile range [IQR] 7.00–7.37 years, N = 251), and overweight defined according to international standards for children equivalent to adult BMI > 25 kg/m² (Cole and Lobstein, 2012). We fitted multivariate models using generalized estimating equations, and tested effect modification by sex, breastfeeding and cohort. Results per 10 pg CALUX TEQ/g lipid increase in exposure.ResultsDioxin exposure was highest in the Belgian and lowest in the Norwegian cohort; median (IQR) of the pooled sample 13 (12.0) pg CALUX TEQ/g lipid. Perinatal exposure to dioxins and dioxin-like compounds appeared associated with increased growth between 0 and 24 months (adjusted estimate for change in z-score: β = 0.07, 95% CI: − 0.01, 0.14). At 7 years, dioxins exposure was associated with a statistically significant increase in BMI in girls (adjusted estimate for BMI units β = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.91) but not in boys (β = − 0.03, 95% CI: − 0.55, 0.49) (p-interaction = 0.044). Furthermore, girls had a 54% (− 6%, 151%) increased risk of overweight at 7 years (p-interaction = 0.023).ConclusionPerinatal exposure to dioxin and dioxin-like compounds was associated with increased early infant growth, and increased BMI in school age girls. Studies in larger sample sizes are required to confirm these sex-specific effects.     

Boron exposure through drinking water during pregnancy and birth size

BackgroundBoron is a metalloid found at highly varying concentrations in soil and water. Experimental data indicate that boron is a developmental toxicant, but the few human toxicity data available concern mostly male reproduction.ObjectivesTo evaluate potential effects of boron exposure through drinking water on pregnancy outcomes.MethodsIn a mother-child cohort in northern Argentina (n = 194), 1–3 samples of serum, whole blood and urine were collected per woman during pregnancy and analyzed for boron and other elements to which exposure occurred, using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Infant weight, length and head circumference were measured at birth.ResultsDrinking water boron ranged 377–10,929 μg/L. The serum boron concentrations during pregnancy ranged 0.73–605 μg/L (median 133 μg/L) and correlated strongly with whole-blood and urinary boron, and, to a lesser extent, with water boron. In multivariable-adjusted linear spline regression analysis (non-linear association), we found that serum boron concentrations above 80 μg/L were inversely associated with birth length (B − 0.69 cm, 95% CI − 1.4; − 0.024, p = 0.043, per 100 μg/L increase in serum boron). The impact of boron appeared stronger when we restricted the exposure to the third trimester, when the serum boron concentrations were the highest (0.73–447 μg/L). An increase in serum boron of 100 μg/L in the third trimester corresponded to 0.9 cm shorter and 120 g lighter newborns (p = 0.001 and 0.021, respectively).ConclusionsConsidering that elevated boron concentrations in drinking water are common in many areas of the world, although more screening is warranted, our novel findings warrant additional research on early-life exposure in other populations.     

Male specific association between xenoestrogen levels in placenta and birthweight

BackgroundFetal exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals may increase the risk for adverse health effects at birth or later in life.ObjectivesThe objective of this study is to analyze the combined effect of xenoestrogens on reproductive and perinatal growth outcomes (child birthweight, early rapid growth and body mass index (BMI) at 14 months) using the biomarker total effective xenoestrogen burden (TEXB).Methods490 placentas were randomly collected in the Spanish prospective birth cohort Environment and Childhood (INMA) project. TEXB was used to assess the estrogenicity of placental samples in two fractions: that largely attributable to environmental organohalogenated xenoestrogens (TEXB-alpha), and that mostly due to endogenous estrogens (TEXB-beta), both expressed in estrogen equivalent units (Eeq) per gram of tissue. Linear or logistic regression models were performed adjusting for cohort and confounders. Sex interactions were investigated.ResultsThe median TEXB-alpha level was 0.76 pM Eeq/g (interquartile range (iqr): 1.14). In multivariate models, higher TEXB-alpha levels (third tertile, > 1.22 pM Eeq/g; iqr: 1.73) were associated with increased birthweight in boys but not in girls (β = 148.2 g, 95% CI: 14.01, 282.53, p_int = 0.057). Additionally, higher TEXB-alpha values in boys were related with a lower risk of early rapid growth (OR = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.15, 0.88) and with a non significant association with larger BMI z-scores at 14 months of age (β = 0.29; 95% CI: − 0.11, 0.69).ConclusionsThese findings suggest that prenatal exposure to xenoestrogens may increase birthweight in boys, which might have an impact on child obesity and other later health outcomes.     

A novel model to characterize postnatal exposure to lipophilic environmental toxicants and application in the study of hexachlorobenzene and infant growth

BackgroundInfants are exposed to persistent environmental contaminants through breast milk, yet studies assessing the health effects of postnatal exposure are lacking. Existing postnatal exposure assessment is either too simple (lactation exposure model, LEM) or requires complex physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models.ObjectivesWe present equations for postnatal exposure calculations. We applied these equations to study the effect of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) on infant growth in the two first years of life.MethodsHCB was measured in breast milk samples in 449 mother-child pairs participating in the Norwegian birth cohort study HUMIS. We used these concentrations, mother's weight, height and age, together with child's weight at 8 age points, and proportion of milk consumed each month, to calculate HCB concentrations in the infant over age. We then estimated the association between HCB and infant growth using a linear mixed model.ResultsChildren exposed to HCB via mother's milk reached concentrations 1–5 times higher than the mother. HCB was associated with lower weight gain in the first 2 years (− 33 g per unit HCB and month, 95% CI: − 38, − 27 at 6 months). Associations were stronger during the first 3 months (− 57 g per unit HCB and month, 95% CI: − 67, − 49 at 1 month), indicating a critical window of effect. Our equations gave more precise estimates than the LEM.ConclusionOur equations for postnatal exposure of lipophilic environmental toxicants give better results than the LEM and are easier to implement than the complex PBPK models. HCB exposure, especially during the first three months of life, has a negative effect on infant growth up to 2 years.     

Route-specific daily uptake of organochlorine pesticides in food,dust, and air by Shanghai residents,China

Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) are widely detected in the environment, although they have been banned in China since 1980s. To better understand the route-specific daily uptake of the pesticides by humans, a total of 322 food, dust, and air samples were collected in Shanghai, China, during 2008–2011. The median concentrations were 0.2–126.6 and 0.03–1.6 ng/g wet weight for DDTs (DDT and its metabolites) and HCHs, respectively, in different types of foods. The values in dust (indoors and outdoors) were 5.7–29.8 and 1.3–5.4 ng/g, and 13.9 × 10^− 3 and 2.6 × 10^− 3 ng/m³ in air (gas + particle) for DDTs and HCHs, respectively. The daily uptake of a pesticide by humans was calculated via the pesticide intake multiplied by its uptake efficiency. The uptake efficiencies of DDTs and HCHs in food through human intestines were estimated using bioaccessibility measured via an in vitro method simulating the human gastrointestinal digestion process. The total daily uptakes of DDTs and HCHs through three routes (i.e., ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact) were 79.4 and 4.9 ng/day, respectively, for children, and 131.1 and 8.0 ng/day, respectively, for adults. Ingestion via food and dust was the main route of human exposure to the pesticides, and the daily uptake of the pesticides via food consumption accounted for 95.0–99.2% of the total.     

Associations between short/medium-term variations in black smoke air pollution and mortality in the Glasgow conurbation,UK

ObjectivesTo examine associations between short/medium-term variations in black smoke air pollution and mortality in the population of Glasgow and the adjacent towns of Renfrew and Paisley over a 25-year period at different time lags (0–30 days).MethodsGeneralised linear (Poisson) models were used to investigate the relationship between lagged black smoke concentrations and daily mortality, with allowance for confounding by cold temperature, between 1974 and 1998.ResultsWhen a range of lag periods were investigated significant associations were noted between temperature-adjusted black smoke exposure and all-cause mortality at lag periods of 13–18 and 19–24 days, and respiratory mortality at lag periods of 1–6, 7–12, and 13–18 days. Significant associations between cardiovascular mortality and temperature-adjusted black smoke were not observed. After adjusting for the effects of temperature a 10 μg m^− 3 increase in black smoke concentration on a given day was associated with a 0.9% [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.3–1.5%] increase in all cause mortality and a 3.1% [95% CI: 1.4–4.9%] increase in respiratory mortality over the ensuing 30-day period. In contrast for a 10 μg m^− 3 increase in black smoke concentration over 0–3 day lag period, the temperature adjusted exposure mortality associations were substantially lower (0.2% [95% CI: − 0.0–0.4%] and 0.3% [95% CI: − 0.2–0.8%] increases for all-cause and respiratory mortality respectively).ConclusionsThis study has provided evidence of association between black smoke exposure and mortality at longer lag periods than have been investigated in the majority of time series analyses.     

Biomarkers of pesticide exposure and diabetes in the 1999–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

The associations of 8 pesticides and pesticide metabolites with total diabetes (diagnosed and undiagnosed) and pre-diabetes (glycohemoglobin 5.7–6.4%) were evaluated using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 1999–2004. Six of the pesticides were found to be associated with total diabetes in separate adjusted logistic regressions. These pesticides and pesticide metabolites were beta-hexachlorocyclohexane, p,p′-DDE, p,p′-DDT, oxychlordane, trans-nonachlor, and heptachlor epoxide. When the number of compounds elevated was tested, 4 or more, of the 6, elevated had an odds ratio of 4.99 (95% CI 1.97–12.61) compared to none elevated. When the 6 compounds were tested together in a single combined adjusted logistic regression only oxychlordane, a metabolite of chlordane, and heptachlor epoxide, a metabolite of heptachlor, were significantly associated with total diabetes. In the combined adjusted logistic regression, oxychlordane ≥ 14.5 ng/g lipid adjusted had an odds ratios of 1.90 (95% CI 1.09–3.32) compared to oxychlordane < 14.5 ng/g lipid adjusted, and heptachlor epoxide ≥ 14.6 ng/g lipid adjusted had an odds ratio of 1.70 (95% CI 1.16–2.49) compared to heptachlor epoxide < 14.6 ng/g lipid adjusted. Heptachlor epoxide and p,p′-DDT were significantly associated with pre-diabetes in separate adjusted logistic regressions. When these 2 compounds were tested together only heptachlor epoxide remained significantly associated with pre-diabetes. The evidence supporting the relationship between pesticides and pesticide metabolites, with diabetes, was strongest for heptachlor epoxide and oxychlordane, intermediate for p,p′-DDT, and least for beta-hexachlorocyclohexane, p,p′-DDE, and trans-nonachlor. Mirex and dieldrin were not associated with total diabetes or pre-diabetes.     

Health impact and damage cost assessment of pesticides in Europe

Health impacts from pesticide use are of continuous concern in the European population, requiring a constant evaluation of European pesticide policy. However, health impacts have never been quantified accounting for specific crops contributing differently to overall human exposure as well as accounting for individual substances showing distinct environmental behavior and toxicity. We quantify health impacts and related damage costs from exposure to 133 pesticides applied in 24 European countries in 2003 adding up to almost 50% of the total pesticide mass applied in that year. Only 13 substances applied to 3 crop classes (grapes/vines, fruit trees, vegetables) contribute to 90% of the overall health impacts of about 2000 disability-adjusted life years in Europe per year corresponding to annual damage costs of 78 million Euro. Considering uncertainties along the full impact pathway mainly attributable to non-cancer dose–response relationships and residues in treated crops, we obtain an average burden of lifetime lost per person of 2.6 hours (95% confidence interval between 22 seconds and 45.3 days) or costs per person over lifetime of 12 Euro (95% confidence interval between 0.03 Euro and 5142 Euro), respectively. 33 of the 133 assessed substances accounting for 20% of health impacts in 2003 are now banned from the European market according to current legislation. The main limitation in assessing human health impacts from pesticides is related to the lack of systematic application data for all used substances. Since health impacts can be substantially influenced by the choice of pesticides, the need for more information about substance application becomes evident.