Actividades económicas, laborales, ambientales y aditivas con exposición a benceno y el desarrollo de leucemia mieloide aguda / Economic activities, occupational, environmental and additive exposures to benzene and the development of acute myeloid leukemia

Introducción: el benceno es un hidrocarburo aromático obtenido por destilación del alquitrán utilizado en gasolineras y como solvente industrial, clasificado como cancerígeno por exposición ocupacional o ambiental. Está relacionado con el desarrollo de leucemia mieloide aguda (LMA) por su absorción principal por vía inhalatoria, y su metabolismo hepático con producción de benzoquinona de alta liposolubilidad que le permite depositarse en la médula ósea y tejido graso. Objetivo: analizar la asociación de las formas de exposición por actividades económicas, oficios, cargos, exposición ambiental y aditiva con el desarrollo de LMA. Materiales y métodos: revisión sistemática de la literatura en las bases de datos Medline, Embase, Lilacs, Cochrane Library, Toxnet y OpenGrey, en inglés y español con los términos benzene, cancer, leukemia, occupational and enviromental exposition. Resultados: la mayoría de los estudios muestran una relación causal entre la exposición a benceno y el desarrollo de LMA, con predominio en ambientes laborales, seguidos de factores ambientales y aditivos como el humo del cigarrillo. Conclusiones: se encontró evidencia de asociación entre la exposición a benceno ocupacional y/o ambiental con el desarrollo de leucemia mieloide aguda, debido a que altera el estrés oxidativo y la desregulación del aryl hidrocarburo generando efectos citogenéticos, mutación genética y alteraciones epigenéticas que se expresan en hematotoxicidad y desarrollo de leucemia.

Introduction: Benzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon obtained by distillation of tar used in gas stations and as an industrial solvent, classified as a carcinogen by occupational and environmental exposure. It is related with the development of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) mainly due to its absorption by inhalation and hepatic metabolism producing highly-lipid soluble benzoquinone allowing it to deposit in bone marrow and fatty tissue. Objective: to analyze the association of forms of exposure including economic activities, type of workplace, environmental and additive exposure with the development of AML. Material and Methods: systematic review of the literature in Medline, Embase, Lilacs, Cochrane Library, Toxnet and OpenGrey databases in English and Spanish, using the terms benzene, cancer, leukemia, occupational and environmental exposure. Results: most studies show a causal relationship between benzene exposure and AML development, predominantly in work settings, followed by environmental factors including additive sources such as cigarette smoke. Conclusions: we found evidence of an association between occupational and/or environmental exposure to benzene and the development of AML, for it alters oxidative stress and aryl hydrocarbon deregulation inducing cytogenetic aberrations, genetic mutations and epigenetic changes expressed as hematotoxicity and leukemia development.

Systemic lupus erythematosus, a disease conditioned by the environment / Lupus eritematoso sistémico, una enfermedad condicionada por el medio ambiente

ABSTRACT Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that involves several systems, affects mainly young adult women, and causes a significant deterioration in quality of life. Different environmental aspects are known to facilitate the development of lupus in predisposed individuals. For several years it has been known that factors such as exposure to UV rays are related to the development of lupus; however, due to factors inherent to globalization, life-style changes, improved knowledge of cell signaling pathways as well as a better understanding of metabolomics, proteomics an genomics, it has been possible to better understand the relationship between cells and their environment. This study based on a narrative review, compiles the existing evidence on different risk factors and the development of lupus, including aspects typical of the Colombian population.

RESUMEN El lupus eritematoso sistémico es una enfermedad autoinmune que compromete diferentes sistemas, afecta principalmente a mujeres adultas jóvenes y genera un deterioro significativo de la calidad de vida. Es bien conocido que diferentes aspectos relacionados con la calidad de vida facilitan el desarrollo del lupus en individuos predispuestos. Desde hace varios años se sabe que factores tales como la exposición a los rayos ultravioleta se relacionan con el desarrollo de lupus; sin embargo, debido a factores inherentes a la globalización, a los cambios en los hábitos, a un mayor conocimiento de las vías de señalización celular, así como a una mayor comprensión de la metabolómica, la proteómica y la genómica, ha sido posible entender mejor la relación entre las células y su medio ambiente. En el presente estudio reunimos, a través de una revisión narrativa, la evidencia actual sobre diferentes factores de riesgo y el desarrollo del lupus, incluyendo aspectos típicos de la población colombiana.

Effect of prenatal and postnatal exposure to tobacco in the development of acute bronchiolitis in the first two years of life.

INTRODUCTION: Environmental exposure to tobacco increases the risk of respiratory disease in infants. However, the impact of maternal smoking on the development of acute bronchiolitis has hardly been assessed. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of acute bronchiolitis and to analyse the effect of prenatal and postnatal maternal smoking on the development of this disease. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective, observational study was performed on healthy newborns from a third level hospital born between October 2015 and February 2016. Questionnaires were completed by the mothers at discharge from maternity and followed-up for two years. These collected information about prenatal and postnatal smoking, lifestyle, family and personal history, and the development of bronchiolitis. A bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. RESULTS: A total of 223 newborns were included, of whom 13.9% were exposed to tobacco smoking during gestation, 21.4% in the postnatal period, and 12.4% in both times. The incidence of bronchiolitis was 28.7% at one year of life, and 34.5% at two years. The multivariate analysis demonstrated that the prenatal and postnatal exposure to tobacco is an independent risk factor for the development of bronchiolitis (OR 4.38; 95% CI; 1.63-11.76), while prolonged breastfeeding is a protective factor (OR 0.13; 95% CI; 0.04-0.48). Other factors that were statistically significant were: atopic dermatitis (OR 2.91; 95% CI; 1.26-6.73), and gestational age (OR 1.42; 95% CI; 1.08-1.88). CONCLUSIONS: Children exposed to prenatal and postnatal maternal smoking have a higher risk of suffering bronchiolitis. Reducing the smoking habit in women that intend to become pregnant must be a priority in preventive medicine.

Efecto de la exposición prenatal y posnatal al tabaco en el desarrollo de bronquiolitis aguda durante los dos primeros años de vida / Effect of prenatal and postnatal exposure to tobacco in the development of acute bronchiolitis in the first two years of life

Introducción: La exposición ambiental al tabaco incrementa el riesgo de patología respiratoria en la infancia. Sin embargo, el impacto del tabaquismo materno en el desarrollo de bronquiolitis aguda ha sido escasamente evaluado. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la incidencia de bronquiolitis aguda y analizar el efecto del tabaquismo materno prenatal y posnatal en el desarrollo de esta patología. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio observacional, prospectivo, que incluyó recién nacidos sanos de un hospital terciario entre octubre de 2015 y febrero de 2016. Se realizaron encuestas a las madres al alta de maternidad y seguimiento durante 2años, que recogieron información sobre tabaquismo prenatal y posnatal, estilo de vida, antecedentes familiares y personales, y desarrollo de bronquiolitis. Se realizó análisis de regresión logística bivariante y multivariante. Resultados: Se incluyeron 223 recién nacidos; el 13,9% estuvieron expuestos a tabaquismo durante la gestación, el 21,4% en período posnatal y el 12,4% en ambos momentos. La incidencia de bronquiolitis fue del 28,7% al año de vida y del 34,5% a los 2años. El análisis multivariante demostró que la exposición prenatal y posnatal al tabaco es un factor de riesgo independiente para el desarrollo de bronquiolitis (OR4,38; IC95%: 1,63-11,76), mientras que la lactancia materna prolongada es un factor protector (OR0,13; IC95%: 0,04-0,48). Otros factores que resultaron estadísticamente significativos fueron: dermatitis atópica (OR2,91; IC95%: 1,26-6,73) y edad gestacional (OR1,42; IC95%: 1,08-1,88). Conclusiones: Los niños expuestos a tabaquismo materno prenatal y posnatal presentan un mayor riesgo de padecer bronquiolitis. La disminución del hábito tabáquico en mujeres con intención de embarazo debe ser una prioridad en medicina preventiva. (AU)

Introduction: Environmental exposure to tobacco increases the risk of respiratory disease in infants. However, the impact of maternal smoking on the development of acute bronchiolitis has hardly been assessed. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of acute bronchiolitis and to analyse the effect of prenatal and postnatal maternal smoking on the development of this disease. Patients and methods: A prospective, observational study was performed on healthy newborns from a third level hospital born between October 2015 and February 2016. Questionnaires were completed by the mothers at discharge from maternity and followed-up for 2years. These collected information about prenatal and postnatal smoking, lifestyle, family and personal history, and the development of bronchiolitis. A bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. Results: A total of 223newborns were included, of whom 13.9% were exposed to tobacco smoking during gestation, 21.4% in the postnatal period, and 12.4% in both times. The incidence of bronchiolitis was 28.7% at one year of life, and 34.5% at 2years. The multivariate analysis demonstrated that the prenatal and postnatal exposure to tobacco is an independent risk factor for the development of bronchiolitis (OR4.38; 95%CI: 1.63-11.76), while prolonged breastfeeding is a protective factor (OR0.13; 95%CI: 0.04-0.48). Other factors that were statistically significant were: atopic dermatitis (OR2.91; 95%CI: 1.26-6.73), and gestational age (OR1.42; 95%CI: 1.08-1.88). Conclusions: Children exposed to prenatal and postnatal maternal smoking have a higher risk of suffering bronchiolitis. Reducing the smoking habit in women that intend to become pregnant must be a priority in preventive medicine. (AU)

Commute times and audiometric findings among adult population in Mexico City.

INTRODUCTION: Long commute times are common in big cities. OBJECTIVE: To determine hearing thresholds and their association with commute time in Mexico City. METHODS: Cross-sectional study that included 177 healthy adults from 2009 to 2011. Demographic information and commute times were recorded. Hearing was assessed by audiometry. Regression models were constructed to determine the predictors of hearing thresholds. RESULTS: There were 101 men (53%) and 76 women (43%). Mean commute time was 43 minutes (1-150 minutes). A hearing threshold drop was observed at 4000 Hz, with recovery at 8000 Hz in both ears when patients were stratified by gender and age groups. A commute time > 40 min/day increased the hearing threshold at 4000 Hz (ß = 2.96 dB HL, p < 0.01). Men had higher thresholds (ß = 2.6 dB HL), as older subjects also did: 25-34 years, ß = 2.2 dB HL; 35-44 years, ß = 5.2 dB HL; and ≥ 45 years, ß = 8.3 dB HL. CONCLUSION: The hearing pattern, although normal, resembled that of noise-induced hearing loss, associated with long commute times.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Los tiempos prolongados de traslado son comunes en las ciudades grandes. OBJETIVO: Determinar los umbrales auditivos y su asociación con el tiempo de traslado al trabajo en la Ciudad de México. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal que incluyó a 177 adultos sanos de 2009 a 2011. Se registró información demográfica y tiempo de traslado al trabajo. La audición se evaluó mediante audiometría. Se realizaron modelos de regresión para determinar los predictores de los umbrales auditivos. RESULTADOS: Se trató de 101 hombres (53 %) y 76 mujeres (43 %). El tiempo promedio de traslado fue 43 minutos (1 a 150 minutos). Se observó una caída del umbral auditivo en 4000 Hz, con recuperación en 8000 Hz en ambos oídos al estratificar por sexo y grupos de edad. Un tiempo de traslado > 40 minutos/día incrementó el umbral auditivo en 4000 Hz (b = 2.96 dB HL, p < 0.01). Los hombres presentaron umbrales mayores (b = 2.6 dB HL), al igual que los sujetos de edad más avanzada: 25 a 34 años, b = 2.2 dB HL; 35 a 44 años, b = 5.2 dB HL y ≥ 45 años, b = 8.3 dB HL. CONCLUSIÓN: El patrón auditivo, aunque normal, se asemejó a la pérdida auditiva por ruido asociada a tiempo prolongado de traslado al trabajo.

Assessment of Induced Sputum Cellularity in COPD Patients Belonging to Two Different Classes of Air Pollution Exposure.

INTRODUCTION: Several studies have previously demonstrated that long-term exposure to outdoor pollution present airway inflammation in term of an increase of sputum neutrophils. AIM AND METHODS: The aim of our study was to evaluate the level of airway inflammation by induced sputum in a group of 15 non-professionally exposed population of well-characterized COPD patients, residing in urban areas with high rate of outdoor pollution, compared to a control group of 13 individuals with COPD, living in rural areas with a low pollution rate. All participants underwent spirometry and sputum induction. RESULTS: A statistically significant increase in the percentage of neutrophil cell count was found among the residents in urban areas compared to those living in rural regions (89.1 vs 79.0, p<0.05) CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, we showed that non-professionally exposed patients with COPD residing in highly-polluted urban areas had greater airway inflammation in terms of sputum neutrophils compared to a population with very similar characteristics, living in rural areas with lower outdoor pollution. The results of this pilot study may be relevant for the long term effect of environmental outdoor pollution in vulnerable patients like those with COPD.

Acidentes ocupacionais com perfurocortantes em profissionais do setor de urgência e emergência em um hospital de referência de Pernambuco, Brasil / Occupational accidents with sharps on emergency room professionals in a referral hospital in Pernambuco, Brazil / Accidentes laborales con objetos punzantes en profesionales de la sala de emergencias en un hospital de referencia en Pernambuco, Brasil

Justificativa e Objetivos: Este estudo incorpora o campo da saúde pública brasileira, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco em específico da saúde do trabalhador, pelos acidentes ocupacionais com perfurocortantes consistir num agravo evitável. O objetivo foi descrever o perfil sócio epidemiológico/econômico dos profissionais de saúde envolvidos em atividades de contato direto ou indireto com materiais perfurocortantes. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo epidemiológico de natureza descritiva e com abordagem quantitativa, realizado com 133 profissionais que compõem a equipe de enfermagem do setor de urgência e emergência de um hospital de referência de Pernambuco, Brasil, no período de março a maio de 2017. CAAE: N° 63862616.6.0000.5200. Os dados foram analisados utilizando o Software Epi Info, versão 3.2.2. Resultados: Os resultados indicam que 32,37% dos profissionais entrevistados sofreram acidentes com perfurocortantes; 88,89% dos acidentados foram os técnicos de enfermagem; 33,33% se feriram com agulha de punção venosa; 20% com agulha de medicação subcutânea e 20% com agulha de soroterapia; 42,22% realizaram exames laboratoriais tanto nos profissionais como nos pacientes; 27% dos trabalhadores apontam a má iluminação do setor como uma característica do ambiente de trabalho; 24% relatam a falta de treinamento e capacitação frequente da equipe sobre a manipulação de perfurocortantes. Conclusão: Segundo os profissionais entrevistados, a maioria dos acidentes com perfurocortantes ocorreu no momento da punção venosa. A maioria dos profissionais acidentados correspondeu à categoria de técnicos de enfermagem. As condições ruins no ambiente de trabalho e a deficiência de educação permanente foram citadas como as causas de acidentes com perfurocortantes no serviço.(AU)

Background and Objectives: This study incorporates the field of Brazilian public health, in particular the health of the worker, by occupational accidents with a sharps injury avoidable. The objective was to describe the socio-epidemiological / economic profile of health professionals involved in activities of direct or indirect contact with sharps. Methods: An epidemiological study of descriptive nature and quantitative approach, carried out with professional 133 which make up the nursing staff of emergency and emergence of a reference hospital of Pernambuco, Brazil, in the period from march to May 2017. CAAE: N° 63862616.6.0000.5200 The data were analyzed using Epi Info Software 3.2.2. Results: The results indicate that 32.37% of the professionals interviewed, accidents with needlestick; 88.89% of casualties were nursing technicians; 33.33% were injured with needle for venipuncture; 20% with medication and subcutaneous needle 20% with individual needle; 42.22% performed laboratory tests both in professional and in patients; 27% of workers indicate the bad lighting of the sector as a feature of the workplace; 24% reported a lack of training on the team's frequent manipulation of sharps. Conclusion: According to the professionals interviewed, most accidents involving sharps occurred at the time of venipuncture. Most professional's terrain corresponded to the category of nursing technicians. The bad conditions in the workplace and continuing education deficiency were cited as the causes of accidents with sharp objects in the service.(AU)

Justificación y Objetivos: Este estudio incorpora el campo de la salud brasileño, en particular la salud del trabajador, por accidentes con lesión sostenidos y evitable. El objetivo fue describir el perfil socioepidemiológico / económico de los profesionales de la salud involucrados en actividades de contacto directo o indirecto con objetos punzantes. Metodos: Un estudio epidemiológico de carácter descriptivo y de enfoque cuantitativo, realizado con 133 profesionales que conforman el personal de enfermería de urgencias y emergencia de un hospital de referencia de Pernambuco, Brasil, en el período de marzo a mayo de 2017. CAAE: N ° 63862616.6.0000.5200 Los datos fueron analizados utilizando el software Epi Info 3.2.2. Resultados: Los resultados indican que 32.37% de los profesionales entrevistados, accidentes con prefurocortantes; 88.89% de las víctimas eran técnicos de enfermería; 33.33% resultaron heridos con la aguja de venopunción; 20% con la medicación y aguja subcutánea 20% con aguja individual; 42.22% realiza pruebas de laboratorio tanto en profesionales como en pacientes; 27% de los trabajadores indican la mala iluminación del sector como una característica del lugar de trabajo; 24% reportó una falta de formación sobre manipulación frecuente del equipo de objetos punzantes. Conclusiones: Según los profesionales entrevistados, la mayoría accidentes con objetos punzantes se produjeron en el momento de la venopunción. Terreno de profesionales la mayoría correspondió a la categoría de técnicos de enfermería. Las malas condiciones en el lugar de trabajo y la educación permanente deficiencia fueron citadas como las causas de los accidentes con objetos punzantes en el servicio.(AU)

Does exposure of pregnant women to epidemic respiratory syncytial virus affect the severity of bronchiolitis?

INTRODUCTION: Passive transplacental immunity against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) appears to mediate in the protection of the infant for the first 6 months of life. Lower environmental exposure in pregnant women to RSV epidemic may influence the susceptibility of these infants to infection by lowering the levels of antibodies that are transferred to the fetus. OBJECTIVES: To contrast the risk of severe disease progression in infants with acute bronchiolitis by RSV, according to the mother's level of exposure to epidemic. METHOD: Retrospective cohort study of previously healthy infants with RSV-acute bronchiolitis during 5 epidemics was made. We compared the severity of the infection in those born during the period of risk (when is less likely the mother's exposure to epidemic and the transfer of antibodies to the fetus: October 15th-December 15th in our latitude) with the rest of acute bronchiolitis. Bivariate analysis was performed regarding birth in period of risk and the rest of variables, using the Chi-square test. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to study possible classical confounding factors. RESULTS: 695 infants were included in the study. 356 infants were born during the period of risk. Of the 56 patients requiring admission to PICU, 40 of them (71.4%) were born in this period (p=0.002). In the multivariate analysis, the birth in the period of risk showed a 6.5 OR (95% CI: 2.13-19.7) independently of the rest of variables. CONCLUSIONS: The worst clinical disease progression of the acute bronchiolitis by the RSV in less than 6 months age is related to lower exposure of the pregnant woman to the RSV epidemic.

Niños y adolescentes expuestos ambientalmente a mercurio, en diferentes municipios de Colombia / Children and adolescents exposed environmentally to mercury in different municipalities in Colombia

Resumen Objetivo: Establecer la exposición ambiental a mercurio, para identificar el impacto sobre la salud de la población de niños y adolescentes en cuatro departamentos de Colombia. Metodología: Se llevó a cabo un estudio descriptivo transversal entre 2014 - 2015, en once municipios de los departamentos de Bolívar, Sucre, Antioquia y Córdoba y dentro de este se realizó un estudio anidado con un grupo de 63 niños y uno de 37 adolescentes de estos municipios. Resultados: El promedio de tiempo de residencia estuvo entre 6 y 9 años y se encontró alta frecuencia de consumo de pescado. El 6,3% de los niños y el 29,7% de los adolescentes, excedieron el límite permisible de mercurio en sangre y el 50,8% de los niños y el 46,0% de los adolescentes excedieron el límite permisible en cabello. En cuanto a los síntomas referenciados por los participantes, hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p>0,05), entre la población de niños y la de adolescentes en salivación excesiva (15,9%), caída del cabello (18,7%), insomnio (29,0%), nerviosismo (19,6%), debilidad (18,0%) y pérdida de memoria (17,3%). Sabor metálico en la boca (8,4%), pérdida de peso (23,4%), temblor (21,5%), problemas de concentración (17,9%) y dolor torácico (17,9%) no mostraron diferencia entre estos dos grupos. Conclusión: Los niños y adolescentes que residen en áreas de explotación de oro o influenciados por la minería de oro, se encuentran expuestos a mercurio, lo que implica un riesgo elevado para su salud.

Abstract Objective: It was proposed to establish the environmental exposure to mercury, to identify the impact on the health of the population of children and adolescents in four departments of Colombia. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out between 2014 - 2015, in eleven municipalities of the departments of Bolívar, Sucre, Antioquia and Córdoba and within this a nested study was carried out with a group of 63 children and 37 adolescents from these municipalities. Results: Average residence time between 6 and 9 years and a high frequency of fish consumption was found. 6.3% of children and 29.7% of adolescents exceeded the allowable limit of mercury in blood and 50.8% of children and 46.0% of adolescents exceeded the permissible limit on hair. Regarding the symptoms referenced by the participants, there was a statistically significant difference (p> 0.05) between the population of children and that of adolescents in excessive salivation (15.9%), hair loss (18.7%), insomnia (29.0%), nervousness (19.6%), weakness (18.0%) and memory loss (17.3%). Metallic taste in the mouth (8.4%), weight loss (23.4%), tremor (21.5%), concentration problems (17.9%) and chest pain (17.9%) did not show difference between the two groups. Conclusions: Children and adolescents who reside in areas of gold exploitation or who are influenced by gold mining are exposed to mercury, which implies a high risk to their health.

Mouthing of Soil Contaminated Objects is Associated with Environmental Enteropathy in Young Children.

OBJECTIVE: To characterise childhood mouthing behaviours and to investigate the association between object-to-mouth and food-to-mouth contacts, diarrhoea prevalence and environmental enteropathy. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted of 216 children ≤30 months of age in rural Bangladesh. Mouthing contacts with soil and food and objects with visible soil were assessed by 5-h structured observation. Stool was analysed for four faecal markers of intestinal inflammation: alpha-1-antitrypsin, myeloperoxidase, neopterin and calprotectin. RESULTS: Overall 82% of children were observed mouthing soil, objects with visible soil, or food with visible soil during the structured observation period. Sixty two percent of children were observed mouthing objects with visible soil, 63% were observed mouthing food with visible soil, and 18% were observed mouthing soil only. Children observed mouthing objects with visible soil had significantly elevated faecal calprotectin concentrations (206.81 µg/g, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.27, 407.36). There was also a marginally significant association between Escherichia coli counts in soil from a child's play space and the prevalence rate of diarrhoea (diarrhoea prevalence ratio: 2.03, 95% CI 0.97, 4.25). CONCLUSION: These findings provide further evidence to support the hypothesis that childhood mouthing behaviour in environments with faecal contamination can lead to environmental enteropathy in susceptible paediatric populations. Furthermore, these findings suggest that young children mouthing objects with soil, which occurred more frequently than soil directly (60% vs. 18%), was an important exposure route to faecal pathogens and a risk factor for environmental enteropathy.

Some current challenges in research on air pollution and health / Desafíos actuales de la investigación sobre contaminación del aire y salud

This commentary addresses some of the diverse questions of current interest with regard to the health effects of air pollution, including exposure-response relationships, toxicity of inhaled particles and risks to health, multipollutant mixtures, traffic-related pollution, accountability research, and issues with susceptibility and vulnerability. It considers the challenges posed to researchers as they attempt to provide useful evidence for policy-makers relevant to these issues. This commentary accompanies papers giving the results from the ESCALA project, a multi-city study in Latin America that has an overall goal of providing policy-relevant results. While progress has been made in improving air quality, driven by epidemiological evidence that air pollution is adversely affecting public health, the research questions have become more subtle and challenging as levels of air pollution dropped. More research is still needed, but also novel methods and approaches to address these new questions.

Este comentario aborda algunos de los temas de interés actual en relación con los efectos de la contaminación del aire sobre la salud, tales como las relaciones exposición-respuesta, la toxicidad y riesgos para la salud de las partículas inhaladas, las mezclas de contaminantes múltiples, la contaminación relacionada con el tráfico, la investigación sobre responsabilidad, y los problemas de susceptibilidad y vulnerabilidad. Considera los retos que se presentan a los investigadores que intentan proporcionar evidencia para los responsables políticos en estas cuestiones. Este texto acompaña otros trabajos con resultados del proyecto ESCALA, un estudio en varias ciudades de América Latina que tiene como objetivo general proporcionar resultados relevantes para la política pública. Aunque ha habido avances para mejorar la calidad del aire, gracias a la evidencia epidemiológica de que la contaminación aérea está afectando negativamente a la salud pública, las preguntas de investigación se han vuelto más sutiles y difíciles a medida que los niveles de contaminación se reducen. Se necesita más investigación, pero también nuevos métodos y enfoques capaces de enfrentar estas preguntas.

Epidemiology of cutaneous leishmaniasis in central Amazonia: a comparison of sex-biased incidence among rural settlers and field biologists.

OBJECTIVE: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is more frequently reported in men than in women; this may be due to male-biased exposure to CL vectors, female-biased resistance against the disease or both. We sought to determine whether gender-specific exposure to vector habitats explains male-biased CL incidence in two human populations of central Amazonia. METHODS: We compared the CL incidence in one population of field researchers (N = 166), with similar exposure for males and females, and one population of rural settlers (N = 646), where exposure is overall male-biased. We used a combination of questionnaires and clinical data to quantify CL cases, and modelled disease incidence in a Bayesian framework. RESULTS: There was a moderately higher incidence of CL among men than among women in both populations, but male bias decreased as exposure time increased. Disease incidence was overall higher among field researchers, suggesting that they are an important but understudied CL risk group. CONCLUSION: Our comparison of two contrasting populations provided epidemiological evidence that CL incidence can be male-biased even when exposure is comparable in both sexes.

[Exposure pathways to pesticides in schoolchildren in the Province of Talca, Chile]. / Vías de exposición a plaguicidas en escolares de la Provincia de Talca, Chile.

OBJECTIVE: To describe pesticide concentrations in distinct environmental matrices at two time points (low and high seasons in local agricultural production) and to estimate the association between the presence of pesticide residues in matrices and the use of pesticides in the home with the sociodemographic variables of schoolchildren in the Province of Talca, Chile. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 190 schoolchildren. Families were surveyed about their children's vegetable consumption in school and at home, the use of pesticides in the home, and other sociodemographic variables. Additionally, we measured pesticide residues in vegetables and water consumed by the schoolchildren and in the soil of 14 schools. RESULTS: At both time points, the vegetable matrix had the highest pesticide concentration, both in urban and rural schoolchildren. The most common pesticide residues in vegetables were chlorpyrifos, diphenylamine, pyrimethanil, and thiabendazole. In the home, pyrethroid and organophosphate pesticides were mainly used in summer. Dangerous pesticide residues such as azinphos methyl and dimethoate were found in vegetables consumed by the children in schools and households, and organochlorines were found in the soil in some schools. CONCLUSIONS: Pesticide exposure should be limited and the health effects related to pesticide exposure should be assessed in the school population.

Intoxicação crônica por chumbo e implicações no desempenho escolar / Chronic poisoning by lead and implications for school performance / Intoxicación crónica por plomo e implicaciones en el desempeño escolar

Compreender as implicações da contaminação por chumbo contribui para o planejamento de políticas públicas mais efetivas para eliminação da exposição ao metal ou orientação de intervenções que minimizem os seus efeitos. Neste artigo o desempenho acadêmico de crianças contaminadas por chumbo foi avaliado em dois estudos. Para os participantes dos dois estudos as variáveis: contaminação crônica, escola, moradia e condições socioeconômicas foram semelhantes. No Estudo 1, transversal, objetivou-se avaliar a influência da pumblemia em 28 participantes, de ambos os sexos, de sete e quinze anos, separados em dois grupos de acordo com o nível de contaminação. No Estudo 2, longitudinal objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos da pumblemia no desempenho escolar de 10 crianças em um intervalo de quatro anos. Para do desempenho acadêmico foi utilizado o Teste de Desempenho Escolar (TDE). Os resultados do Estudo 1 apontaram para desempenho inferior significante para crianças com maior nível de contaminação. No Estudo 2, verificou-se que o nível de desempenho escolar continua significantemente inferior ao esperado para a série em que se encontram. Os dados parecem indicar para os efeitos deletérios da contaminação por chumbo no desempenho escolar...

To understand the implications of lead contamination contributes to more effective public politics to eliminate exposure to the metal and orientation of interventions that minimize their effects. In this paper we intended to evaluate the effects of lead contamination in children, with the Teste de Desempenho Escolar (TDE). In Study 1, transversal, aimed to evaluate the influence of blood lead levels in 28 participants of both sexes, of seven to fifteen years, divided into two groups according to the level of contamination. In Study 2, longitudinal study aimed to evaluate the effects of contamination on the school, performance of 10 children at an interval of four years. Results showed significant under performance for children with higher levels of contamination and that the level of academic performance remains significantly lower than expected for the series in which they find themselves. The data seem to indicate the deleterious effects of lead contamination in school performance...

Comprender las implicaciones de la contaminación por plomo contribuye para políticas públicas más efectivas para la eliminación de la exposición al metal y para la orientación de intervenciones que minimicen sus efectos. En este artículo se pretendió evaluar los efectos da contaminación por plomo en niños evaluados con el Test de Desempeño Escolar (TDE). En el Estudio 1, transversal, se pretendió evaluar la influencia de la plumbemia en 28 participantes, de ambos sexos, de siete y quince años, separados en dos grupos de acuerdo con el nivel de contaminación. En el Estudio 2, longitudinal, se pretendió evaluar los efectos de la plumbemia en el desempeño escolar de 10 niños en unintervalo de cuatro años. Los resultados señalaron un desempeño inferior significante para niños con mayor nivel de contaminación y que el nivel de desempeño escolar continua significantemente inferior al esperado para el curso en que se encuentran. Los datos parecen indicar los efectos deletéreos de la contaminación por plomo en el desempeño escolar...

Presencia de mercurio en los usuarios de acueductos de Ciudad Bolívar. Bogotá, D. C., 2010-2011 / Presence of Mercury in the Users of Aqueducts of Ciudad Bolívar. Bogotá, D. C. 2010-2011 / Presença de mercúrio nos usuários de aquedutos de Ciudad Bolívar. Bogotá, D. C., 2010-2011

El mercurio es un metal presente en forma natural y por las diferentes actividades económicas, que puede afectar la salud ante la exposición crónica. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de mercurio entre los usuarios de los acueductos comunitarios Recuerdo Sur, y Asoporquera I y II, residentes del barrio Recuerdo Sur y de la vereda Mochuelo Alto, de la Localidad de Ciudad Bolívar. Métodos: Estudio de prevalencia de concentraciones de mercurio en 224 usuarios de los mencionados acueductos, a través de muestras tomadas del cabello, la sangre y la orina, con los respectivos análisis descriptivos por lugar de residencia, realizado entre julio de 2010 y agosto de 2011. Resultados: La prevalencia general en promedio de la concentración de mercurio con los tres marcadores biológicos fue del 72 %. Ninguno de los participantes superó los valores máximos permitidos por el Instituto Nacional de Salud (ins) en ningún biomarcador, pero en los términos establecidos al respecto por la Organización Mundial de Salud (oms), 16 de los participantes superaron los valores para las muestras de cabello, con una proporción del 7,1 %. Conclusión: Las concentraciones de mercurio halladas en los diferentes marcadores biológicos sugieren que hay una exposición de tipo ambiental al mercurio en la población estudiada; por tanto, es necesario identificar las fuentes de mercurio, así como implementar medidas de control de estas, con el fin de evitar daños a la salud ocasionados por dicho contaminante

Mercury is a metal that is naturally found on the environment or occurs as a result of different economic activities. It can potentially affect human health after chronic exposure. Objective: Determine the mercury prevalence in the users of the community water systems of Recuerdo sur, Asoporquera I and II, residents of the Recuerdo Sur quarter and Vereda Mochuelo Alto. Methods: Prevalence survey of mercury concentration in 224 users of the community water systems, through the study hair, blood and urine samples. Also, a descriptive analysis of residence done between 2010 and 2011 is provided. Results: the overall prevalence in average mercury concentration with the three biomarkers was 72%. None of the participants exceeded the maximum values permitted by the Colombian National Institute of Heath in any of the biological samples, but for the World Health Organization, 16 participants (7.1%) exceeded the values permitted on hair. Conclusion: The mercury concentration found on the three biological markers suggests that the studied population has an environmental exposure to mercury. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the sources of mercury, as well as to establish control measures of them in order to prevent health damages caused by this contaminant

O Mercúrio é um metal presente em forma natural e por diferentes atividades econômicas pode chegar a afetar a saúde frente à exposição crônica. Objetivo: Determinar a prevalência de mercúrio em usuários dos aquedutos comunitários Recuerdo Sur, Asoporquera I e II, moradores do bairro Recuerdo Sur e Vereda Mochuelo Alto. Métodos: Estudo de prevalência de concentrações de mercúrio em 224 usuários dos aquedutos através de amostras de cabelo, sangue e urina; com as respectivas análises descritivas por lugar de residência feito entre 2010 e 2011. Resultados: A prevalência geral na média de concentração de mercúrio com os três marcadores biológico foi de 72%. Nenhum dos participantes excedeu os valores máximos permitidos pelo Instituto Nacional de Saúde em qualquer biomarcador; mas para a Organização Mundial da Saúde 16 participantes excederam os valores para o cabelo, com uma proporção de 7,1%. Conclusão: As concentrações de mercúrio encontradas nos diferentes marcadores biológicos sugerem que existe uma exposição do tipo ambiental por mercúrio na população estudada, portanto, é necessário identificar as fontes de mercúrio, bem como realizar medidas de controle para evitar danos à saúde causados por esse contaminante

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.

Exposición ambiental al mercurio y valores en orina de los habitantes de la comunidad Boca de Yaracuy: ubicada en la costa centro-norte de Venezuela / Enviromental expossure to mercury and urine values in inhabitants from Boca de Yaracuy community in the Venezuela north central coast

El objetivo de esta investigación fue relacionar la concentración de mercurio urinario de 100 residentes de la comunidad Boca de Yaracuy (zona costera del Estado Carabobo-Venezuela) con los niveles mercuriales encontrados en pescado, agua y sedimento provenientes del Caño El Alpargatón. Durante el estudio fueron captados 4 peces, 2 muestras de agua y tres de sedimento y analizadas por absorción atómica. La media de los niveles de mercurio en la orina de los individuos analizados fue de 3,62 ± 1,09 µg/g creatinina, ubicandose por debajo del valor límites establecido por la Agencia para sustancias tóxicas y registro de enfermedades, Conferencia americana de higienistas industriales gubernamentales y la Organización Mundial de la Salud, además de las Gacetas oficiales venezolanas N° 5382 y 5021. En las muestras ambientales provenientes del Caño. El Alpargatón, no se encontraron niveles elevados de mercurio, así como ausencia de intoxicación por mercurio en sus habitantes. Se requieren de nuevas investigaciones que abarquen un mayor número de elementos que faciliten un mejor abordaje de la contaminación mercurial.

The aim study was to relate the concentration of urinary mercury than 100 residents of the Community Boca Yaracuy (Carabobo state coastal-Venezuela) with mercury levels found in fish, water and sediment from the Caño Alpargatón. During the study were caught 4 fish, 2 samples of water and three samples of sedimentand, analyzed by atomic absorption. The average mercury levels in urine of individuals analyzed was 3,62 ± 1.09 mg/g creatinine, ranking below the limits set by the Agency for toxic substance and disease registry, American conference of gubernamental industrial hygienists, the World Health Organization and the Venezuela Official Gazettes N°5382 and 5021. In environmental samples from the Caño Alpargaton not were found elevanted levels of mercury and mercury poisoning absence of its inhabitants. Further investigations are needed to cover a larger number of elements to be a better approach to mercury pollution.

Plumbemia en niños de la ciudad de La Plata, Argentina y su relación con la deficiencia de hierro y los factores de exposición al plomo / Blood lead levels in children from the city of La Plata, Argentina. Relationship with iron deficiency and lead exposure risk factors

Introducción. La exposición ambiental al plomo constituye un problema de salud pública en todo el mundo y los niños son más vulnerables a sus efectos tóxicos. Numerosas publicaciones demuestran que la deficiencia de hierro y la intoxicación por plomo pueden asociarse, pero en la Argentina los estudios publicados sobre población pediátrica son escasos. Nuestro objetivo fue establecer la plumbemia en niños y determinar su relación con la deficiencia de hierro y con factores de exposición. Población, material y métodos. Se realizó un estudio transversal en 93 niños (6 meses-5 años) que concurrieron al Hospital de Niños de La Plata para controles de salud. Se aplicó una encuesta socioambiental y se determinaron las concentraciones de plomo, hemoglobina y ferritina en sangre. Resultados. La media geométrica de plomo en sangre fue 4,26 μg/dl (IC 95%: 3,60-5,03), con una prevalencia de plumbemias ≥ 10 μg/dl de 10,8%. Se encontraron concentraciones de plomo más elevadas en los niños en cuyos hogares se desarrollaban actividades contaminantes (6,74 contra 3,78 μg/dl; p= 0,005) y en quienes habitaban en viviendas precarias (5,68 contra 3,71 μg/dl; p= 0,020). Las plumbemias ≥ 10 μg/dl se asociaron significativamente con la deficiencia de hierro (OR: 5,7; IC 95%: 1,34-23,41) y con la actividad domiciliaria contaminante (OR: 4,8 IC 95%: 1,12-20,16). Conclusión. La prevalencia de plumbemias ≥ 10 μg/ di es preocupante en la población estudiada. Los factores de riesgo asociados a dichas concentraciones fueron la deficiencia de hierro y el desarrollo en el hogar de actividades relacionadas con la manipulación de plomo.

Introduction. Environmental exposure to lead and the subsequent poisoning are a main publie health concern worldwide. Children have a higher vulnerability to lead toxic effeets, and many reports have shown the association between iron deficiency and lead poisoning. In Argentina, reports about lead levéis in children are scarce. Our aims were to assess blood lead levéis in children and determining their relationship with iron deficiency and known lead exposure risk factors. Material and methods. We performed a cross sectional study in a sample of 93 children (age range, 6 months to 5 years) receiving care at La Plata Children's Hospital. A social and environmental survey was done, and blood lead, hemoglobin and ferritin levéis were assessed. Results. Geometric mean blood lead level was 4.26 μg/dl (95% CI, 3.60-5.03); prevalence of blood lead levels ≥ 10 μg/dl was 10.8%. Higher blood lead levels were found in children living in households with lead-handling contaminating activities (6.74 vs. 3.78 μg/dl; p= 0.005) and in very low-income households (5.68 vs. 3.71 μg/dl; p= 0.020). The presence of blood lead levels ≥ 10 μg/dl was strongly associated with iron deficiency (OR 5.7; 95% CI: 1.34-23.41) and with lead-handling activities at home (OR 4.8; 95% CI: 1.12-20.16). Conclusión. The prevalence of blood lead levels ≥ 10 μg/dl is a matter of concern in the population studied. Iron deficiency and development of lead-handling activities at home were the risk factors associated with high blood lead levels.

Evaluación de la exposición ambiental a plaguicidas orgánicos persistentes en dos barrios de la provincia de Córdoba / Assessment of environmental exposure to persistent organic pesticides in two neighborhoods of the province of Corodba

Se determinó la concentración de plaguicidas organoclorados en 167 muestras de sangre entera de habitantes de dos barrios (Sitio Nº 1 y Sitio Nº 2) de la provincia de Córdoba ubicados en los alrededores de depósitos de plaguicidas obsoletos. La presencia de plaguicidas se determinó por cromatografía gaseosa con detector de captura electrónica utilizando columnas capilares de distinta polaridad. Los plaguicidas más frecuentemente encontrados fueron p,p’-DDE, β-HCH y HCB. La máxima concentración detectada fue 7,31 μg/l y correspondió a p,p’-DDE. El β-HCH mostró valores más altos que los otros isómeros en la familia de los hexaclorociclohexanos (HCH). Se observó buena correlación entre la concentración de p,p’-DDE yla edad tal como se esperaba para un contaminante persistente y bioacumulable. El trabajo aporta información sobre los niveles de plaguicidas organoclorados en sangre en una población con exposición ambiental estudiada frente a denuncias periodísticas y de los mismos habitantes del lugar.

Organochlorine pesticides were analyzed in 167 samples of whole blood colleted from people from two different sites in the province of Córdoba (Site Nº 1 and Site Nº 2). These sites were close to unused pesticides store. The presence of pesticides was determined by gas-chromatography with electron-capture detection using capillary columns. p,p’-DDE, β-HCH and HCB were the most frequently pesticide detected. The highest concentration found was 7,31 μg/l of p,p’-DDE. β-HCH showed highest values than its two isomers. As expected, significant relationship was found between the level of p,p’-DDE andthe age, since the former is a persistent and bioacumulative compound. This paper shows the organochlorine pesticides levels in a population with environmental exposure.

Tabaquismo durante el embarazo en Argentina y Uruguay / Smoking during pregnancy in Argentina and Uruguay

Argentina y Uruguay están entre los países con mayor proporción de mujeres jóvenes fumadoras. Se desconoce cuál es la proporción exacta de ellas que fuman durante el embarazo así como las características de las que dejan de fumar y las que continúan fumando durante el embarazo. Realizamos una encuesta administrada por un/a entrevistador/a a 1512 mujeres embarazadas de 18 años o mayores (796 en Argentina; 716 en Uruguay), que concurrían a control prenatal en hospitales públicos de grandes conglomerados urbanos. 44% de las mujeres en Argentina y 53% en Uruguay habían sido o eran fumadoras. Durante el embarazo, 11% de las mujeres en Argentina y 18% en Uruguay continuaron fumando. En ambos países, la proporción de mujeres que vive con fumadores, permite fumar en el hogar y regularmente o siempre se encuentra en lugares cerrados con personas que estén fumando fue 49%, 46% y 20% entre las mujeres que nunca fumaron, 67%, 60% y 32% entre las que dejaron, y 78%, 75% y 52% entre las que continuaron fumando respectivamente. El estudio confirma un importante problema de salud pública y documenta que la exposición ambiental persiste en subgrupos de mujeres, aun en aquéllas que dejaron de fumar. Es importante que el sector de salud pública provea acceso a programas efectivos para dejar de fumar durante el embarazo. Cualquier nueva intervención a desarrollar que intente tener un éxito al menos moderado y sostenible, debiera incluir componentes que actúen sobre el entorno fumador de la mujer embarazada que fuma.

Argentina and Uruguay are among the countries in which a large proportion of young women smoke. The rate of smokers during pregnancy in both countries is not well known, and data on the characteristics of women who quit smoking during pregnancy compared to those who continue smoking are not available. We conducted a survey including 1512 pregnant women >18 years old (796 in Argentina; 716 in Uruguay), during antenatal visits in public hospitals of large urban regions; 44% of the women in Argentina and 53% in Uruguay had been or were regular smokers. 11% of the surveyed women in Argentina and 18% in Uruguay continued smoking during pregnancy. In both countries, the proportion of women who lived with smokers, allowed smoking at home, and were regularly or always exposed to tobacco smoke indoors, were 49%, 46% and 20% in the subgroup of women who never smoked, 67%, 60% and 32% in those who quit, and 78%, 75% and 52% in those who continued smoking, respectively. The study confirms a serious public health problem in both countries, and documents that environmental exposure persists in subgroups of women, even in those who quit smoking. It is important that the public health sector should provide access to effective programs for smoking cessation, to women who smoke during pregnancy. For the development of a new program, any intervention intending to have at least a moderate and sustainable success, it should seriously consider including components targeting the smoking environment of the pregnant women who smoke.