Characterization of volatile organic compound (VOC)exposures and their determinantsamong U.S. hairdressers serving an ethnic clientele

Abstract

Background: Hairdressers are routinely exposed to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) linked to adverse health effects. Over 32% of U.S. hairdressers are women of color who may experience disproportionate VOC exposures from their occupational and personal use of products formulated for ethnic (Black/Latina) clientele. While these exposures may reflect potential health disparities, little is known about VOC exposures and their determinants in this worker population.Objective: To characterize concentrations of urinary VOC (UVOC) exposure biomarkers and their determinants among female hairdressers primarily serving an ethnic clientele.Methods: We recruited 23 minority female hairdressers predominantly serving an ethnic clientele, and 17 office workers in the Maryland/DC metro area. We quantified concentrations of 28 biomarkers, representing 20 VOC parent compounds in end-of-shift urine samples, using isotope dilution ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. UVOC concentrations in hairdressers were compared to those among office workers and women in the U.S. general population (NHANES). We administered questionnaires to capture demographics and workplace behaviors.Results: The majority of hairdressers (65%) were black with a mean age of 40 years. Half of office workers were black with a mean age of 34 years. Geometric mean concentrations for 26 of the 28 UVOCs were higher in hairdressers than office workers, with statistically significant concentration differences observed for 10 biomarkers (p<0.05). Also, geometric mean concentrations for 21 of 23 biomarkers quantified by both NHANES and our study, were between 1.5-3.7 times higher in hairdressers than women participating in NHANES. Salon services including semi-permanent hair coloring and hair extensions with glue, were associated with higher concentrations of toluene, xylene and acrylonitrile.Conclusions: Our work is among the first to characterize VOC exposures among minority female hairdressers serving an ethnic clientele. Larger studies are warranted to further examine determinants of VOC exposures and associated adverse health effects among this disparately exposed population.