Micronuclei, Pesticides, and Element Mixtures in Mining Contexts: The Hormetic Effect of Selenium.

The contexts where there are mining and agriculture activities are potential sources of risk to human health due to contamination by chemical mixtures. These contexts are frequent in several Colombian regions. This study explored the potential association between the frequency of micronuclei and pesticides and elements in regions with ferronickel (Montelibano, Córdoba) and gold (Nechí, Antioquia) mining, and a closed native mercury mine (Aranzazu, Caldas), with an emphasis in the potential effect of selenium as a potential chelator. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 247 individuals. Sociodemographic, occupational, and toxicological variables were ascertained. Blood and urine samples were taken for pesticide analysis (5 organophosphates, 4 organochlorines, and 3 carbamates), 68 elements were quantified in hair, and micronuclei were quantified in lymphocytes. The mixtures of elements were grouped through principal component analysis. Prevalence ratios were estimated with robust variance Poisson regressions to explore associations. Interactions of selenium with toxic elements were explored. The highest concentrations of elements were in the active mines. The potentially most toxic chemical mixture was observed in the ferronickel mine. Pesticides were detected in a low proportion of participants (<2.5%), except paraoxon-methyl in blood (27.55%) in Montelibano and paraoxon-ethyl in blood (18.81%) in Aranzazu. The frequency of micronuclei was similar in the three mining contexts, with means between 4 to 7 (p = 0.1298). There was great heterogeneity in the exposure to pesticides and elements. The "hormetic effect" of selenium was described, in which, at low doses, it acts as a chelator in Montelibano and Aranzazu, and at high doses, it can enhance the toxic effects of other elements, maybe as in Nechí. Selenium can serve as a protective agent, but it requires adaptation to the available concentrations in each region to avoid its toxic effects.

Micronuclei frequency and exposure to chemical mixtures in three Colombian mining populations.

The Colombian mining industry has witnessed significant growth. Depending on the scale and mineral extracted, complex chemical mixtures are generated, impacting the health of occupationally exposed populations and communities near mining projects. Increasing evidence suggests that chromosomal instability (CIN) is an important link between the development of certain diseases and exposure to complex mixtures. To better understand the effects of exposure to complex mixtures we performed a biomonitoring study on 407 healthy individuals from four areas: three located in municipalities exploiting different-scale mining systems and a reference area with no mining activity. Large, medium, and small-scale mining systems were analyzed in Montelibano (Córdoba), artisanal and small-scale mining (ASGM) in Nechí (Antioquia), and a closed mining system in Aranzazu (Caldas). The reference area with no mining activity was established in Montería (Córdoba). ICP-MS measured multi-elemental exposure in hair, and CIN was evaluated using the cytokinesis-block micronucleus technique (MNBN). Exposure to mixtures of chemical elements was comparable in workers and residents of the mining areas but significantly higher compared to reference individuals. In Montelibano, increased MNBN frequencies were associated with combined exposure to Se, Hg, Mn, Pb, and Mg. This distinct pattern significantly differed from other areas. Specifically, in Nechí, Cr, Ni, Hg, Se, and Mg emerged as the primary contributors to elevated frequencies of MNBN. In contrast, a combination of Hg and Ni played a role in increasing MNBN in Aranzazu. Interestingly, Se consistently correlated with increased MNBN frequencies across all active mining areas. Chemical elements in Montelibano exhibit a broader range compared to other mining zones, reflecting the characteristics of the high-impact and large-scale mining in the area. This research provides valuable insights into the effects of exposure to chemical mixtures, underscoring the importance of employing this approach in the risk assessment of communities, especially those from residential areas.

Does sulfuric acid have a 'protective' effect on battery recyclers exposed to lead?

Culturally significant interventions to prevent lead exposure of battery recyclers are required. Sulfuric acid used in batteries causes skin lesions and could facilitate the recognition of hazards. This study explored whether joint exposure to lead and sulfuric acid can be used in interventions to manage hazardous work conditions. Data were collected from 120 informal workers, and the blood lead level was measured. Predictors of blood lead levels were explored using a tobit model. The median blood lead level was 9.45 µg/dL (Q75-Q25: 48.9 µg/dL); when lead and sulfuric acid exposure occurred, the level increased to 11.44 µg/dL, and when exposure to lead and other substances occurred, the level was 11.50 µg/dL. Workers are unaware of the risks of obvious and acute silent chronic exposure. Future preventive interventions could confront the economic benefits of battery recycling with the recognition of susceptibility and severity related to lead and sulfuric acid exposure.

Biomarkers of susceptibility and effect in car painters exposed to organic solvents.

INTRODUCTION: Car painters are routinely exposed to organic solvents classified as carcinogenic and mutagenic substances. OBJECTIVE: To characterize the population susceptibility and evaluate the genotoxic effects of exposure to organic solvents. METHODS: A cross-sectional study comparing a group of car painters exposed to organic solvents with a non-exposed group. CYP2E1 polymorphisms and the presence of micronuclei in lymphocytes were determined. RESULTS: One hundred twenty-two workers participated in the study: 62 who worked in car paint shops and were exposed to solvents, and 60 who were not exposed. There were statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding micronucleated cells and nucleoplasmic bridges frequencies (p= 0.042 and p= 0.046, respectively; exact likelihood ratio). Significant differences were found at the interaction between the CYP2E1 genotype c1c1 and occupational exposure to solvents, with higher frequencies of micronuclei (p= 0.013) and micronucleated cells (p= 0.015). However, when the frequencies of micronuclei, micronucleated cells and nucleoplasmic bridges in the exposure group were compared between the c1c1 and c2c2/c1c2 allele groups of the CYP2E1 polymorphism, statistically significant differences were found. CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms that when workers with CYP2E1 polymorphisms, specifically the c1c1 genotype, are exposed to organic solvents, they are more likely to have somatic cell mutations, a condition associated with increased susceptibility to diseases such as cancer.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Los pintores de vehículos automotores están rutinariamente expuestos a agentes como los solventes orgánicos, capaces de producir efectos mutágenos y carcinógenos. OBJETIVO: Caracterizar la susceptibilidad poblacional y evaluar los efectos genotóxicos debidos a la exposición a solventes orgánicos. MÉTODOS: Estudio de corte transversal que comparó a un grupo de pintores de carros expuestos a solventes orgánicos con un grupo de personas no expuestas. Fueron determinados tanto los polimorfismos de CYP2E1 como la presencia de micronúcleos en linfocitos. RESULTADOS: Participaron 122 personas, 62 trabajadores de talleres de pintura de autos expuestos a solventes y 60 personas no expuestas. Con relación al cuestionario Q 16, 32% de los expuestos refirieron síntomas sugestivos de neurotoxicidad. Las frecuencias de células micronucleadas y de puentes nucleoplásmicos fueron significativamente mayores en los expuestos que en los no expuestos: p= 0.042 y p= 0.046, respectivamente, Razón de verosimilitud exacta). Fueron halladas diferencias significativas en la interacción de CYP2E1 (c1c1) y la exposición ocupacional a solventes, con mayores frecuencias de micronúcleos (p= 0.013) y de células micronucleadas (p= 0.015). CONCLUSIONES: Este estudio reafirma que los trabajadores expuestos a solventes orgánicos con polimorfismos de CYP2E1, específicamente con genotipo c1c1, tienen mayor probabilidad de presentar mutaciones en las células somáticas, condición asociada con una mayor susceptibilidad a enfermedades como el cáncer.

Prevalencia de factores asociados a la enfermedad cardiovascular y su relación con el ausentismo laboral de los trabajadores de una entidad oficial / Prevalence of factors associated with cardiovascular disease and their relationship with work absenteeism in a government office

Resumen Introducción: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares constituyen la primera causa de muerte en el mundo. Este fenómeno se atribuye a estilos de vida, tales como sedentarismo, ingesta de alimentos con elevado valor calórico, consumo de alcohol y tabaco, que traen como resultado el aumento en frecuencias de obesidad, dislipidemias e hipertensión, convirtiéndose así en factores de riesgo que inciden directamente sobre la prevalencia de enfermedad y muerte de origen cardiovascular, que, por ende, representan una carga importante para la salud en población trabajadora. Objetivo: Determinar los factores asociados con la enfermedad cardiovascular y su relación con el ausentismo laboral de los trabajadores de una entidad oficial en la ciudad de Bogotá. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo en el que se emplearon registros de 214 trabajadores, incluidas variables sociodemográficas, clínicas-cardiovasculares y laborales. Se efectuó un análisis de las variables independientes y el desenlace, y se planteó un modelo de regresión logística, teniendo como variable dependiente el ausentismo laboral. Resultados: Las prevalencias de la muestra fueron: tabaquismo, 13.1%; consumo de alcohol, 35.1%; sedentarismo, 39.7%; trabajadores con sobrepeso u obesidad, 54.2% y colesterol total elevado, 43.9%. El 29.9% recibía tratamiento para la hipertensión, 4.7% para la diabetes y 21.5% para las dislipidemias. Conclusión: La prevalencia de factores de riesgo asociados a la enfermedad cardiovascular es similar a la encontrada en otros estudios de población trabajadora. El modelo de regresión logística encontró que las variables estado civil casado, obesidad, tratamiento para la hipertensión, estadio de presión arterial diastólica y tiempo de servicio se comportan como variables predictoras del ausentismo laboral.

Abstract Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is the first cause of death in the world. This phenomenon is attributed to life styles, such a sedentarism, ingestion of high calorie foods, and alcohol and tobacco consumption. This leads to an increase in the rates of obesity, dyslipidaemia, and hypertension. These then become risk factors that directly affect the prevalence of disease and death of cardiovascular origin, which consequently represents a significant health problem in the working population. Objective: To determine the factors associated with cardiovascular disease and their relationship with work absenteeism in a government office in the City of Bogota, Colombia. Materials and methods: A descriptive study was carried out using the work records of 214 employees. Sociodemographic, clinical-cardiovascular, and work variables were also recorded. An analysis was performed on the independent variables and the outcome, and a logistic regression model was prepared using work absenteeism as a dependent variable. Results: The prevalences of the sample were: smoking, 13.1%; alcohol consumption, 35.1%; sedentarism, 39.7%; overweight or obese workers, 54.2%; and elevated total cholesterol, 43.9%. Treatment was being received for hypertension in 29.9%, with 4.7% for diabetes, and 21.5% for lipid disorders. Conclusion: The prevalence of risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease is similar to that found in other studies on the working population. The regression model showed that the variables marital status, obesity, treatment for hypertension, diastolic blood pressure level, and length of service, behaved as predictive variables of work absenteeism.

Biomarkers of susceptibility and effect in car painters exposed to organic solvents / Biomarcadores de susceptibilidad y efecto en pintores de carros expuestos a solventes orgánicos

Abstract Introduction: Car painters are routinely exposed to organic solvents classified as carcinogenic and mutagenic substances. Objective: To characterize the population susceptibility and evaluate the genotoxic effects of exposure to organic solvents. Methods: A cross-sectional study comparing a group of car painters exposed to organic solvents with a non-exposed group. CYP2E1 polymorphisms and the presence of micronuclei in lymphocytes were determined. Results: One hundred twenty-two workers participated in the study: 62 who worked in car paint shops and were exposed to solvents, and 60 who were not exposed. There were statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding micronucleated cells and nucleoplasmic bridges frequencies (p=0.042 and p=0.046, respectively; exact likelihood ratio). Significant differences were found at the interaction between the CYP2E1 genotype c1c1 and occupational exposure to solvents, with higher frequencies of micronuclei (p= 0.013) and micronucleated cells (p= 0.015). However, when the frequencies of micronuclei, micronucleated cells and nucleoplasmic bridges in the exposure group were compared between the c1c1 and c2c2/c1c2 allele groups of the CYP2E1 polymorphism, statistically significant differences were found. Conclusions: This study confirms that when workers with CYP2E1 polymorphisms, specifically the c1c1 genotype, are exposed to organic solvents, they are more likely to have somatic cell mutations, a condition associated with increased susceptibility to diseases such as cancer

Resumen Introducción: Los pintores de vehículos automotores están rutinariamente expuestos a agentes como los solventes orgánicos, capaces de producir efectos mutágenos y carcinógenos. Objetivo: Caracterizar la susceptibilidad poblacional y evaluar los efectos genotóxicos debidos a la exposición a solventes orgánicos. Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal que comparó a un grupo de pintores de carros expuestos a solven tes orgánicos con un grupo de personas no expuestas. Fueron determinados tanto los polimorfismos de CYP2E1 como la presencia de micronúcleos en linfocitos. Resultados: Participaron 122 personas, 62 trabajadores de talleres de pintura de autos expuestos a solventes y 60 personas no expuestas. Con relación al cuestionario Q 16, 32% de los expuestos refirieron síntomas sugestivos de neurotoxicidad. Las frecuencias de células micronucleadas y de puentes nucleoplásmicos fueron significativamente mayores en los expuestos que en los no expuestos: p= 0.042 y p= 0.046, respectivamente, Razón de verosimilitud exacta). Fueron halladas diferencias significativas en la interacción de CYP2E1 (c1c1) y la exposición ocupacional a solventes, con mayores frecuencias de micronúcleos (p= 0.013) y de células micronucleadas (p= 0.015). Conclusiones: Este estudio reafirma que los trabajadores expuestos a solventes orgánicos con polimorfismos de CYP2E1, específicamente con genotipo c1c1, tienen mayor probabilidad de presentar mutaciones en las células somáticas, condición asociada con una mayor susceptibilidad a enfermedades como el cáncer

Chronic pesticide mixture exposure including paraquat and respiratory outcomes among Colombian farmers.

This study explored the potential association between chronic exposure to pesticide mixtures including paraquat and respiratory outcomes among Colombian farmers. Sociodemographic and occupational data, respiratory symptoms and spirometric data were collected. Paraquat in spot urine samples were quantified with solid-phase extraction high-performance liquid chromatography. Multiple Poisson regressions with robust variance were used to determine factors associated with respiratory outcomes. Profiles of pesticide mixtures used were identified among 217 farmworkers, but profenofos and methamidophos-based mixtures were more frequent. Chronic paraquat exposure was slightly associated with self-reported asthma (PR: 1.06; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.13). Different pesticide mixtures were associated with flu, thoracic pain, allergic rhinitis, and obstructive pattern in spirometry. Although acute exposure to paraquat is low among Colombian farmers participating in the study, associations between respiratory outcomes and chronic pesticide mixtures exposure including profenofos, methamidophos or glyphosate require further specific studies.

Exposición a plomo y mercurio en poblaciones de la ribera del río Bogotá: estudio multi-método / Lead and mercury exposure in populations on the banks of the Bogotá River: a multi-method study

RESUMEN Objetivos Este estudio buscó comprender la problemática sanitaria asociada con la presencia de plomo y mercurio en el agua del río Bogotá. Materiales y Métodos Se realizó un estudio mixto con entrevistas, encuesta y mediciones de zinc protoporfirina (ZPP) y mercurio en sangre a 172 individuos. Se identificaron variables asociadas con las mayores concentraciones, y mediante análisis comparativo cualitativo los atributos de los casos con mayor exposición. Resultados Las entrevistas reportaron que la contaminación del río se asocia con enfermedades, pese a que la exposición directa al agua no es frecuente. El agua del río es usada ampliamente para riego de cultivos que se venden en otros municipios. Las comunidades con mayor exposición al agua del río son de Tocaima y Girardot. Los mayores niveles de ZPP se observaron entre quienes vivían en estos municipios, con ocupación hogar y que realizaban actividades extralaborales con metales. Los niveles elevados de ZPP se asociaron con depresión, sangrado nasal y pérdida del apetito. Las mayores concentraciones de mercurio se presentaron entre habitantes de Girardot. Estas se asociaron con sudoración, desorientación, náuseas y diarrea. Conclusión Se presentaron bajos niveles de plomo y mercurio en la población estudiada, aunque hay casos específicos con alta vulnerabilidad social que requieren atención especial.(AU)

ABSTRACT Objectives This study sought to understand the health problems associated with the presence of lead and mercury in the water of the Bogotá River. Materials and Methods A mixed methods study was conducted using interviews, surveys and measurements of zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) and mercury in blood from 172 individuals. Variables associated with the highest concentrations were identified, as well as the attributes of the cases with increased exposure by means of a qualitative comparative analysis. Results Interviews reported that river pollution is associated with diseases, although direct exposure to water is rare. River water is widely used for irrigation of crops that are sold in other municipalities. Communities with greater exposure to river water are Tocaima and Girardot. The highest levels of ZPP were observed among those living in these municipalities, did activities at home and performed non-work activities using metals. Increased ZPP levels were associated with depression, nasal bleeding and loss of appetite. The highest concentrations of mercury were found in the inhabitants of Girardot, and were associated with sweating, disorientation, nausea and diarrhea. Conclusion Low levels of lead and mercury were observed in the study population, although there are specific cases with high social vulnerability that require special attention.(AU)

[Lead and mercury exposure in populations on the banks of the Bogotá River: a multi-method study]. / Exposición a plomo y mercurio en poblaciones de la ribera del río Bogotá: estudio multi-método.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to understand the health problems associated with the presence of lead and mercury in the water of the Bogotá River. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A mixed methods study was conducted using interviews, surveys and measurements of zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) and mercury in blood from 172 individuals. Variables associated with the highest concentrations were identified, as well as the attributes of the cases with increased exposure by means of a qualitative comparative analysis. RESULTS: Interviews reported that river pollution is associated with diseases, although direct exposure to water is rare. River water is widely used for irrigation of crops that are sold in other municipalities. Communities with greater exposure to river water are Tocaima and Girardot. The highest levels of ZPP were observed among those living in these municipalities, did activities at home and performed non-work activities using metals. Increased ZPP levels were associated with depression, nasal bleeding and loss of appetite. The highest concentrations of mercury were found in the inhabitants of Girardot, and were associated with sweating, disorientation, nausea and diarrhea. CONCLUSION: Low levels of lead and mercury were observed in the study population, although there are specific cases with high social vulnerability that require special attention.

OBJETIVOS: Este estudio buscó comprender la problemática sanitaria asociada con la presencia de plomo y mercurio en el agua del río Bogotá. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se realizó un estudio mixto con entrevistas, encuesta y mediciones de zinc protoporfirina (ZPP) y mercurio en sangre a 172 individuos. Se identificaron variables asociadas con las mayores concentraciones, y mediante análisis comparativo cualitativo los atributos de los casos con mayor exposición. RESULTADOS: Las entrevistas reportaron que la contaminación del río se asocia con enfermedades, pese a que la exposición directa al agua no es frecuente. El agua del río es usada ampliamente para riego de cultivos que se venden en otros municipios. Las comunidades con mayor exposición al agua del río son de Tocaima y Girardot. Los mayores niveles de ZPP se observaron entre quienes vivían en estos municipios, con ocupación hogar y que realizaban actividades extralaborales con metales. Los niveles elevados de ZPP se asociaron con depresión, sangrado nasal y pérdida del apetito. Las mayores concentraciones de mercurio se presentaron entre habitantes de Girardot. Estas se asociaron con sudoración, desorientación, náuseas y diarrea. CONCLUSIÓN: Se presentaron bajos niveles de plomo y mercurio en la población estudiada, aunque hay casos específicos con alta vulnerabilidad social que requieren atención especial.

Quantification of cell-free DNA for evaluating genotoxic damage from occupational exposure to car paints.

BACKGROUND: For several years, cell-free DNA has been emerging as an important biomarker for non-invasive diagnostic in a wide range of clinical conditions and diseases. The limited information available on the genotoxic effects associated with occupational exposure to car paints, as well as the fact that up-to-date there are not reports about cell-free DNA measurements for assessing this condition, led us to evaluate the DNA damage caused by the occupational exposure to organic solvents contained in car paints, through the quantification of the cell-free DNA and the comet assay, in a sample of 33 individuals taken from 10 automobile paint shops located in Bogota DC, Colombia. RESULTS: By applying the two methods, cell-free DNA and comet assay, we found a significant increase in the extent of DNA damage in the exposed individuals compared with the non-exposed ones within the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide useful information about the cell-free DNA levels in this type of exposure and can be considered as a support tool that contributes to the diagnosis of genotoxic damage in individuals occupationally exposed to car paints.

Exposure to pesticide mixtures and DNA damage among rice field workers.

This study describes the use of pesticides mixtures and their potential association with comet assay results in 223 rice field workers in Colombia. Thirty-one pesticides were quantified in blood, serum, and urine (15 organochlorines, 10 organophosphorus, 5 carbamates, and ethylenethiourea), and the comet assay was performed. Twenty-four (77.42%) pesticides were present in the workers. The use of the maximum-likelihood factor analysis identified 8 different mixtures. Afterwards, robust regressions were used to explore associations between the factors identified and the comet assay. Two groups of mixtures--α-benzene hexachloride (α-BHC), hexachlorobenzene (HCB), and ß-BHC (ß: 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.33-2.10) and pirimiphos-methyl, malathion, bromophos-methyl, and bromophos-ethyl (ß: 11.97, 95% CI: 2.34-21.60)--were associated with a higher percentage of DNA damage and comet tail length, respectively. The findings suggest that exposure to pesticides varies greatly among rice field workers.

Underground Coal Mining: Relationship between Coal Dust Levels and Pneumoconiosis, in Two Regions of Colombia, 2014.

In Colombia, coal miner pneumoconiosis is considered a public health problem due to its irreversibility, high cost on diagnosis, and lack of data related to its prevalence in the country. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was carried out in order to determine the prevalence of pneumoconiosis in underground coal mining workers in two regions of Colombia. The results showed a 35.9% prevalence of pneumoconiosis in the study group (42.3% in region 1 and 29.9% in region 2). An association was found between a radiologic diagnosis of pneumoconiosis and a medium risk level of exposure to carbon dust (OR: 2.901, 95% CI: 0.937, 8.982), medium size companies (OR: 2.301, 95% CI: 1.260-4.201), length of mining work greater than 25 years (OR: 3.222, 95% CI: 1.806-5.748), and a history of smoking for more than one year (OR: 1.479, 95% CI: 0.938-2.334). These results establish the need to generate an intervention strategy aimed at preventing the identified factors, as well as a timely identification and effective treatment of pneumoconiosis in coal miners, in which the commitment of the General Health and Social Security System and the workers compensation system is ensured.

Servicios de medicina del trabajo en Colombia / Occupational medicine services in Colombia

Objetivo: Caracterizar la calidad técnica de los servicios que en el área de medicina del trabajo ofertan las instituciones prestadoras de servicios de salud ocupacional (IPSSO) en las principales ciudades del país. Métodos: Corresponde a un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal (2009-2010) de cobertura nacional (15 ciudades) en el que mediante la aplicación de una encuesta diagnóstica se obtuvo información de 192 Instituciones Prestadoras de Servicios de Salud Ocupacional (IPSSO). Resultados: El estudio evidenció que el 74,7 % de las IPSSO cuentan con licencia vigente para la prestación de servicios en el área de medicina del trabajo, que la oferta de servicios se realiza sobre la base de la subcontratación tanto de profesionales como de equipos y que el uso de las guías de atención integral en salud ocupacional basadas en la evidencia (GATISO), es muy incipiente. Conclusiones: Se identificaron, entre otras, deficiencias técnicas, administrativas, de gestión, de infraestructura y de personal, que afectan la calidad de los servicios de medicina del trabajo ofertados por las IPSSO, las cuales no permiten asegurar que se estén estudiando a profundidad y con suficiencia los efectos de los factores de riesgo en la salud de los trabajadores.

Objective: Characterizing the technical quality of occupational medicine services being provided by occupational health supply providing institutions (OHSPI) in Colombia’s main cities. Materials and Methods: This was a national descriptive cross-sectional study (2009- 2010) in which a diagnostic survey was used for obtaining data regarding 192 OHSPI. Results: The study demonstrated that 76 % of the OHSPI had a license for offering occupational medicine services. Institutions provide services by subcontracting professionals and the necessary equipment. It also revealed infrequent use of integral attention for evidence-based occupational health guidelines (EBOHG). Conclusion: Deficiencies affecting the quality of occupational medicine services were identified. Such deficiencies hampered in-depth studies about the effects of the risk factors on workers’ health, meaning that monitoring and controlling occupational health care services offered by the OHSPI must be reinforced to assure the availability of resources and the execution of disease prevention programs to maintain and improve workers’ state of health.

Exposición a plaguicidas en los habitantes de la ribera del río Bogotá (Suesca) y en el pez Capitán / Exposure to Pesticides in Residents or the Banks of the Río Bogotá (Suesca) and the Capitán Fish / Exposição a praguicidas nos habitantes da ribeira do rio Bogotá (Suesca) e no peixe "Capitán de la sabana"

Objetivo: considerando el elevado uso de plaguicidas en Colombia y los efectos nocivos que produce la exposición a estas sustancias para la salud humana y el ambiente, se realizó un estudio para la determinación de biomarcadores de exposición y efecto de plaguicidas en la población de Suesca que habita en la ribera del río Bogotá, de los niveles de plaguicidas en muestras de agua del río tomadas en el mismo municipio y en muestras de pez "Capitán de la sabana" (Eremophylus mutisii) capturado en dicha zona. Materiales y métodos: se realizaron determinaciones para organofosforados, carbamatos, ditiocarbamatos y organoclorados También se exploró, mediante una encuesta, la exposición ocupacional a plaguicidas y el conocimiento y utilización de medidas de protección personal en su actividad laboral. Adicionalmente, se examinó el hábito de la pesca de pez Capitán y su consumo en la dieta de los habitantes de esta zona del río. Resultados: los resultados muestran la presencia de plaguicidas organoclorados y organofosforados en el río y en el tejido de los peces y organoclorados y etilentiourea en las muestras biológicas humanas. En el estudio participaron trabajadores directamente expuestos a plaguicidas, quienes manipulan productos de alta toxicidad; en su mayoría conocen y emplean las medidas de protección personal e higiene industrial. Conclusiones: existe contaminación por plaguicidas en la cuenca alta del río Bogotá que afecta a la fauna y a las poblaciones ribereñas. Es necesario promover mejores medidas para el cuidado del ambiente, para la protección y para el autocuidado de las personas que manipulan plaguicidas en la zona.

Objective: Considering the high use of pesticides in Colombia and the harmful effects resulting from exposure to these substances on human health and the environment, a study for the determination of biomarkers of exposure and effect of pesticides in population of the banks of the Río Bogotá in Suesca, the levels of pesticides in river water samples taken in the same city and in samples of fish, "Capitán de la Sabana" (Eremophylus mutisii) caught in this area. Materials and methods: We measured for organophosphates, carbamates, dithiocarbamates and organochlorines. We also explored through a survey of occupational exposure to pesticides in the population and knowledge and use of personal protective measures in their work. Additionally, we explored the habit of fishing for captain and consumption in the diet of the inhabitants of the riverbank. Results: The results show the presence of organochlorine and organophosphorus pesticides in the river and in fish tissue and organochlorine and ethylene thiourea in human biological samples. Participated in the study workers directly exposed to pesticides, highly toxic handlers, most know and use personal protective measures and industrial hygiene. Conclusions: Pollution such as pesticides in the upper basin of Bogotá that affects wildlife and coastal populations. Best action is necessary to promote environmental care, protection and self-care of persons using pesticides in the area.

Objetivos: Considerando o elevado uso de praguicidas na Colômbia e os efeitos nocivos que produz a exposição a estas sustancias para a saúde humana e o ambiente, se realizou um estudo para a determinação de biomarcadores de exposição e efeito de praguicidas na população de Suesca que habita na ribeira do rio Bogotá, dos níveis de praguicidas em amostras de água do rio tomadas no mesmo município e em amostras do peixe "Capitan de la sabana" (Eremophylus mutisii) caçado nesta zona. Materiais e métodos: se realizaram determinações para organofosforados, carbamates, ditiocarbamatos e organoclorados. Também explorou-se, mediante uma pesquisa, a exposição ocupacional a praguicidas e o conhecimento e utilização de medidas de proteção pessoal em sua atividade laboral. Adicionalmente, examinou-se o hábito da pesca de peixe "Capitan de la sabana" e seu consumo na dieta dos habitantes desta zona do rio. Resultados: os resultados mostram a presencia de praguicidas organoclorados e organofosforados no rio e no tecido dos peixes e organoclorados e etilentiouréia nas amostras biológicas humanas. No estudo participaram trabalhadores diretamente expostos a praguicidas, os quais manipulam produtos de alta toxicidade; na sua maioria conhecem e empregam as medidas de proteção pessoal e higiene industrial. Conclusões: existe contaminação por praguicidas na bacia alta do rio Bogotá que afeita à fauna e às populações da ribeira. É necessário promover melhores medidas para o cuidado do ambiente, para a proteção e para o autocuidado das pessoas que manipulam praguicidas na zona.

[Occupational medicine services in Colombia]. / Servicios de medicina del trabajo en Colombia.

OBJECTIVE: Characterizing the technical quality of occupational medicine services being provided by occupational health supply providing institutions (OHSPI) in Colombia's main cities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a national descriptive cross-sectional study (2009- 2010) in which a diagnostic survey was used for obtaining data regarding 192 OHSPI. RESULTS: The study demonstrated that 76 % of the OHSPI had a license for offering occupational medicine services. Institutions provide services by subcontracting professionals and the necessary equipment. It also revealed infrequent use of integral attention for evidence-based occupational health guidelines (EBOHG). CONCLUSION: Deficiencies affecting the quality of occupational medicine services were identified. Such deficiencies hampered in-depth studies about the effects of the risk factors on workers' health, meaning that monitoring and controlling occupational health care services offered by the OHSPI must be reinforced to assure the availability of resources and the execution of disease prevention programs to maintain and improve workers' state of health.

Impacto en la salud y el medio ambiente por exposición a plaguicidas e implementación de buenas prácticas agrícolas en el cultivo de tomate, Colombia, 2011 / Impact on health and environment of exposure to pesticides and implementation of best agricultural practices in tomato production, Colombia, 2011

Objetivo: describir los posibles efectos adversos en salud y medio ambiente por el uso de plaguicidas en zonas productoras de Colombia e implementar las buenas prácticas agrícolas (BPA) en el cultivo de tomate. Material y método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo en el municipio de La Merced-Caldas con tres fases: una de diagnóstico, donde se seleccionaron 132 trabajadores del sector agrícola y se recolectaron muestras biológicas y ambientales. Una segunda fase de intervención en la cual se incluyeron 5 parcelas, en estas se implementaron las (BPA) y una fase de evaluación de estas parcelas. Se llevó a cabo análisis simple de las variables y se exploraron posibles asociaciones. Resultados: el tiempo de exposición a plaguicidas en promedio fue de nueve años. Con mayor frecuencia el sistema nervioso central (95,5 por ciento) fue el más afectado; seguido por órganos de los sentidos (46,2 por ciento); sistema digestivo (33,3 por ciento ); piel (21,2 por ciento) y otros (19,7 por ciento). Se encontraron niveles de organoclorados en el 97,0 por ciento (128), inhibición de la enzima acetilcolinesterasa en el 34,1 por ciento (45) de los participantes y ningún nivel del metabolito etilentiourea. En las muestras ambientales se hallaron niveles de organofosforados en tomate y suelo. En el agua y lodo se detectaron niveles de organoclorados. La producción de tomate, mostró una diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre las parcelas con BPA y las tradicionales (p=0,020). Conclusiones: se evidenciaron los riesgos por uso de plaguicidas y la necesidad de fortalecer la vigilancia sobre los potenciales efectos para la salud que pueden producir los plaguicidas y mediante el empleo de las BPA.

Objective: Describe the possible adverse effects on population health and environment due to pesticide use in agricultural zones in Colombia, and implement the best agricultural practices (BAP) in tomato production. Materials and methods: A descript intoxicative study was carried out in the municipality of Merced-Caldas, consisting in three phases: a diagnostic phase, in which environmental and biological samples were collected, using a sample of 132 agricultural workers. In a second phase, BAP were implemented, and in the third phase, the results were evaluated. A univariate analysis was completed and posible associations were explored. Results: Average length of exposure to pesticides was 9 years. The central nervous system was the most affected (95.5 percent), followed by sensory organs (46.2 percent ), the digestive system (33.3 percent ), skin (21.2 percent) and others (19.7 percent). Organoclorides were found in 97.0 percent (128), inhibition of acetylcholinesterase enzyme was found in 43.1 percent (45); no metabolite ethylenethiourea was found. In the environmental samples, presence of organophosphates was found in tomatoes and soil. In water and mud samples, organochlorides were found. There was a statistically significant difference between BPA farms and traditional farms. (p=0,020). Conclusions: Risks due to pesticide use were demonstrated, and the need to strengthen vigilance on the potential effects of pesticide use.

[Bogotá paint-industry workers exposure to organic solvents and genotoxic effects]. / Exposición a Solventes Orgánicos y Efectos Genotóxicos en Trabajadores de Fábricas de Pinturas en Bogotá

OBJECTIVE: Investigating the degree of exposure to organic solvents and related genotoxic consequences in paint-factory workers by using cytogenetic monitoring and determining micronuclei frequency in lymphocytes and DNA damage as assessed by comet assays. METHODOLOGY: Excretion of phenol and hippuric and methylhippuric acids in urine was investigated as biomarkers for benzene, toluene and xylene exposure. Urine samples were taken in two paint-factories in Bogotá and in a non-exposed control group. Benzene, toluene and xylene concentrations in air were measured in the work setting. Micronuclei and simple DNA chain breakage frequency were evaluated in peripheral blood sample mononuclear cells to assess early genetic effects. RESULTS: Hippuric acid concentration was found to be within normal values; by contrast, phenol and methylhippuric acid sample concentrations were above normal values by 3,3 % and 50,8 %, respectively. Benzene concentration in air was above permissible limits in one of the factories. There were no statistical differences regarding genetic biomarkers between exposed and non-exposed workers. CONCLUSIONS: Organic solvent levels in the samples were apparently low, which is consistent with the absence of genotoxicity in cells. This study represents a step forward in research in occupational health surveillance.

Exposición a Solventes Orgánicos y Efectos Genotóxicos en Trabajadores de Fábricas de Pinturas en Bogotá / Bogotá paint-industry workers´ exposure to organic solvents and genotoxic effects

Objetivo: Investigar la exposición a solventes orgánicos y los efectos genotóxicos mediante monitoreo citogenético determinando la frecuencia de micronúcleos en linfocitos y el daño del ADN por el ensayo del cometa, en trabajadores de fábricas de pinturas en Bogotá. Metodología: Como biomarcadores de exposición a benceno, tolueno y xileno, la excreción de fenol, ácido hipúrico y ácido metilhipúrico fue investigada en muestras de orina provenientes de trabajadores en dos fábricas de pinturas en Bogotá y de un grupo control. También se realizó monitoreo de la concentración de benceno, tolueno y xileno en el ambiente de trabajo. Como biomarcadores de efectos genéticos tempranos, la frecuencia de micronúcleos y rompimiento de cadenas simples de ADN fueron evaluadas en células mononucleares a partir de muestras de sangre periférica. Resultados: Las concentraciones de ácido hipúrico en orina post-exposición se encontraron dentro de los rangos normales, mientras que para fenol el 3,3 por ciento y para ácido metilhipúrico el 50,8 por ciento de las muestras presentaron niveles por encima de los valores de referencia. En una de las fábricas la concentración de benceno en aire estaba por encima de los valores límites permisibles. No hubo diferencias estadísticas entre los trabajadores expuestos y los no expuestos con relación a los biomarcadores genéticos examinados. Conclusiones: En este estudio los niveles de solventes orgánicos internamente efectivos parecen ser bajos lo cual se explica con la ausencia de efectos genotóxicos en las células examinadas. Este trabajo constituye un aporte para continuar investigando sobre el tema y a la vez hacer seguimiento por medio del programa de vigilancia epidemiológica.

Objective: Investigating the degree of exposure to organic solvents and related genotoxic consequences in paint-factory workers by using cytogenetic monitoring and determining micronuclei frequency in lymphocytes and DNA damage as assessed by comet assays. Methodology: Excretion of phenol and hippuric and methylhippuric acids in urine was investigated as biomarkers for benzene, toluene and xylene exposure. Urine samples were taken in two paint-factories in Bogotá and in a non-exposed control group. Benzene, toluene and xylene concentrations in air were measured in the work setting. Micronuclei and simple DNA chain breakage frequency were evaluated in peripheral blood sample mononuclear cells to assess early genetic effects. Results: Hippuric acid concentration was found to be within normal values; by contrast, phenol and methylhippuric acid sample concentrations were above normal values by 3,3 percent and 50,8 percent, respectively. Benzene concentration in air was above permissible limits in one of the factories. There were no statistical differences regarding genetic biomarkers between exposed and non-exposed workers. Conclusions: Organic solvent levels in the samples were apparently low, which is consistent with the absence of genotoxicity in cells. This study represents a step forward in research in occupational health surveillance.

Correlación de protoporfirina zinc y plomo en sangre en trabajadores de fábricas de baterías, de Bogotá, Colombia / Correlation of protoporphyrin zinc with lead in blood in workers of the car battery industry of Bogota, Colombia

Objetivo. Determinar la utilidad de la protoporfirina zinc en sangre (PPz) como indicador de exposición a plomo en trabajadores de fábricas de baterías. Material y métodos. Se hizo un estudio transversal en 116 trabajadores de fábricas de baterías del sector informal en Bogotá, Colombia. La información sobre variables generales, ocupacionales y de salud fue obtenida por medio de una entrevista con los trabajadores. Se establecieron dos categorías para los valores de PPz: aquellos por debajo del valor límite de (70 µg/dl), y aquellos por arriba de este valor. Se empleó análisis de regresión lineal para medir la correlación entre los valores logarítmicos de PPz (>70 µg/dl) y plomo en sangre (PbS) (>38 µg/dl). Resultados. Se encontró un coeficiente de correlación semilogarítmica r=0.54, además de posibles asociaciones estadísticamente significativas entre los niveles elevados de PPz y el oficio actual de exposición directa (RM:3.35, IC 95 por ciento 1.02-11.91; p:0.02), emplear plomo como materia prima (RM:7.80, IC 95 por ciento 2.96-21.03; p<0.01) y cambio poco frecuente de ropa de trabajo (RM:3.55, IC 95 por ciento 1.17-11.01; p<0.01). Conclusiones. La PPz puede ser un buen indicador diagnóstico de intoxicación por plomo, y puede ser usada como prueba tamiz para apoyar los programas de vigilancia y seguimiento en el monitoreo biológico en trabajadores expuestos a plomo. El texto completo en inglés de este artículo está disponible en: http://www.insp.mx/salud/index.html