Differential fat accumulation in early adulthood according to adolescent-BMI and heavy metal exposure.

INTRODUCTION: Heavy metals such as Lead (Pb) and Mercury (Hg) can affect adipose tissue mass and function. Considering the high prevalence of exposure to heavy metals and obesity in Mexico, we aim to examine if exposure to Pb and Hg in adolescence can modify how fat is accumulated in early adulthood. METHODS: This study included 100 participants from the ELEMENT cohort in Mexico. Adolescent Pb and Hg blood levels were determined at 14-16 years. Age- and sex-specific adolescent BMI Z-scores were calculated. At early adulthood (21-22 years), fat accumulation measurements were performed (abdominal, subcutaneous, visceral, hepatic, and pancreatic fat). Linear regression models with an interaction between adolescent BMI Z-score and Pb or Hg levels were run for each adulthood fat accumulation outcome with normal BMI as reference. RESULTS: In adolescents with obesity compared to normal BMI, as Pb exposure increased, subcutaneous (p-interaction = 0.088) and visceral (p-interaction < 0.0001) fat accumulation increases. Meanwhile, Hg was associated with subcutaneous (p-interaction = 0.027) and abdominal (p-interaction = 0.022) fat deposition among adolescents with obesity. CONCLUSIONS: Heavy metal exposure in adolescence may alter how fat is accumulated in later periods of life.

Prevention-intervention strategies to reduce exposure to e-waste.

As one of the largest waste streams, electronic waste (e-waste) production continues to grow in response to global demand for consumer electronics. This waste is often shipped to developing countries where it is disassembled and recycled. In many cases, e-waste recycling activities are conducted in informal settings with very few controls or protections in place for workers. These activities involve exposure to hazardous substances such as cadmium, lead, and brominated flame retardants and are frequently performed by women and children. Although recycling practices and exposures vary by scale and geographic region, we present case studies of e-waste recycling scenarios and intervention approaches to reduce or prevent exposures to the hazardous substances in e-waste that may be broadly applicable to diverse situations. Drawing on parallels identified in these cases, we discuss the future prevention and intervention strategies that recognize the difficult economic realities of informal e-waste recycling.