Exposure to Environmental Contaminants and Lung Function in Adolescents-Is There a Link?

Marike Leijs,Gavin ten Tusscher,Janna Koppe,Wim van Aalderen,Pim de Voogt,Kees Olie

doi:10.3390/ijerph15071352

Abstract

Dioxins (polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF)), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and brominated flame retardants (BDEs) are well known toxic environmental contaminants. Their possible role in the incidence of respiratory disease is not yet well understood. Previous studies showed a negative effect on lung function in relation to prenatal and lactational dioxin exposure in pre-pubertal children. Effects of BDE exposure on the lung function have not previously been evaluated. As part of a longitudinal cohort study, the effects of perinatal dioxin (PCDD/F) exposure and serum PCDD/F, dl-PCB, and BDE levels on lung function in adolescents were assessed using spirometry, a body box, and diffusion measurements. Thirty-three children (born between 1986 and 1991) consented to the current follow-up study. Prenatal, lactational, and current dioxin, PCB, and BDE concentrations were determined using GC-MS. No relationship was seen between prenatal and lactational dioxin exposure, nor with current PCB body burden, and lung function. Indications of increasing airway obstruction were seen in relation to increasing current BDE exposure. This is a novel finding and certainly warrants further research.

Highlights

The increasing incidence of respiratory disease throughout the (Western) world is not yet fully understood
Serum PCDD/F levels were not significantly correlated to serum dl-polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) or brominated flame retardants (BDEs) levels, neither to prenatal or lactational levels
We found no significant associations with the other lung function parameters either

Summary

Introduction

The increasing incidence of respiratory disease throughout the (Western) world is not yet fully understood. While genetic factors certainly play a role, they are not a sufficient explanation [1,2]. Over the last decades it has been commonly accepted that environmental pollutants play a role in respiratory disease [1,3]. The association between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, as well as between smoking or exposure to fine particles and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is no longer controversial [3,4]. Environmental factors, such as air pollution and food contamination, have received more attention the last years. In this manuscript we consider some widespread specific environmental contaminants in relation to lung function

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion