Blood Cd Levels Research Articles

Associations of prenatal heavy metals exposure with placental characteristics and birth weight in Hangzhou Birth Cohort: Multi-pollutant models based on elastic net regression

BackgroundThe human placenta is vulnerable to environmental pollutants, but the associations between exposure to multiple, correlated metals and placental characteristics have not been studied. MethodsThe current study population was derived from the Hangzhou Birth Cohort Study. Whole blood and urine samples were collected from mothers during 20–28 gestational week. The concentrations of 11 metals in blood and 11 metals in urine were evaluated by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The data on placental characteristics and birth weight were retrieved from medical records. The elastic net (ENET) model combined with unpenalized regression model was employed to estimate the relationship between levels of metals and placental characteristics (placental weight, chorionic disc area, chorionic disc eccentricity, placental thickness, placental-fetal birth weight ratio) and birth weight. Mediation analysis was performed to explore the mediated effect of placenta on the association of prenatal metals exposure with birth weight. ResultsAmong 512 participants with urine metal levels, the ENET model retained Cadmium (Cd) and Selenium (Se) for placental weight. Further unpenalized regression model including Cd and Se simultaneously showed that one-unite increased natural-logarithm (ln)-transformed urine creatinine corrected (CC) Cd levels was associated with reductions in placental weight of −7.2 g (95% confidence interval (CI): −14.0, −0.4). Among 483 participants with blood metal levels, similarly, blood Cd levels were negatively associated with placental weight (β = −7.5, 95% CI: −17.0, 1.9). Furthermore, mediation analysis demonstrated that urine CC-Cd level was associated with a 21.3 g decrease (95% CI: −42.0, −2.5, p = 0.024) in birth weight through a reduction in placental weight, while blood Cd levels presented a negative association at borderline significance. ConclusionOur findings suggest a mediation effect of the placenta in the relationship between prenatal Cd exposure and lower birth weight. Additional studies with repeated assessment of exposure and more placental parameters are warranted to confirm this relationship.

P0738RELATION BETWEEN BLOOD LEAD AND CADMIUM LEVELS AND CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE

Abstract Background and Aims Chronic kidney disease (CKD) was one of the three reasons of mortality with the furthermost increase from 1990 to 2010 between the top 20 killers. Environmental toxins (Lead Pb and Cadmium Cd) are hidden factors incorporated in the increased prevalence of CKD. The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a relationship between CKD and alteration in blood Pb and Cd levels. Methods This is a case-control study which was held in Forensic department, Mansoura University, Egypt. The individuals were divided into 2 groups: Group I: 40 persons with normal kidney function used as a control group, group II: 40 patients suffering from CKD secondary to unknown cause who are attending to follow up at nephrology outpatient clinic, Mansoura insurance hospital. All participants were subjected to full history taking (Personal history about gender, age, residence and occupation (mechanics, plumbers, battery manufacturers, manufacturers and users of paint and electricians), The history of special habits like smoking, seafood, canned food consumption, using colored mugs and living in old houses, History about medical disorders associated with renal failure as diabetes and hypertension), laboratory investigations including serum creatinine, creatinine clearance, serum Pb and serum Cd. Results Eighty persons (49 males and 31 females) were included in the study with age range from 15 to 76 years. The majority was above 40 years and was coming from rural areas (62.5% in group I and 60% in group II) with no statistical significance (Figure 1). In group I (45.0%) was smokers and (55.0%) were non smokers while in group II (70.0%) were smokers and (30.0%) were non smokers. The difference was statistically significant (p =0.026). Among group I, (42.5%) out of them were using frequently colored food container ceramics while (65%) among group II were frequently use them and the difference was statistically significant (p =0.048). Other risk factors showed no significance (Figure 2). In group I Pb levels range from (9.51µg/100ml) to (42.67µg/100ml) while Cd levels range from (1.59µg/100ml) to (3.87µg/100ml); whereas in group II Pb levels range from (19.43µg/100ml) to (82.3µg/100ml) while Cd levels range from (2.04µg/100ml) to (6.12µg/100ml). There is statistically significant difference among both groups as regard blood Pb levels (p <0.001) with higher blood Pb levels in C.K.D patients (mean±SD=52.76±15.65) than healthy controls (mean±SD=18.06±5.61). Also, there is statistically significant difference among both groups as regard blood Cd levels (p <0.001) with higher blood Cd levels in C.K.D patients (mean±SD=4.27±0.87) than healthy controls (mean±SD=2.62±0.62) (Figure 3 & 4). There was negative correlation between blood Pb,Cd levels and patients` creatinine clearance ( for Pb;R:-0.755, p=0.001, for Cd;R:-0.712, p=0.001 ) (Figure 5, 6). There was positive correlation between blood Pb, Cd levels and serum creatinine (for Pb;R: +0.713, p =0.00, for Cd; R: +0.707, p =0.00) (Figure 7, 8). Conclusion Pb and Cd toxicity may lead to CKD and these environmental factors may explain the unknown etiology of many renal failure cases. With chronic exposure, blood level >25.8 µg/dl for Pb and >3.46 µg/dl for Cd carry the risk for renal failure incidence.

Cadmium Is Associated with Type 2 Diabetes in a Superfund Site Lead Smelter Community in Dallas, Texas.

Objective: To test the hypothesis that cadmium (Cd) exposure is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Materials and Methods: A two-phase health screening (physical examination and laboratory tests) was conducted in a lead smelter community following a Superfund Cleanup. Participants were African Americans aged >19 years to <89 years. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyze T2DM regressed on blood Cd level and covariates: body mass index (BMI), heavy metals (Ar, Cd, Hg, Pb), duration of residence, age, smoking status, and sex. Results: Of 875 subjects environmentally exposed to Cd, 55 were occupationally exposed to by-products of lead smelting and 820 were community residents. In addition, 109 T2DM individuals lived in the community for an average of 21.0 years, and 766 non-T2DM individuals for 19.0 years. T2DM individuals (70.3%) were >50 years old. Blood Cd levels were higher among T2DM subjects (p < 0.006) compared to non-T2DM individuals. Logistic regression of T2DM status identified significant predictors: Cd level (OR = 1.85; 95% CI: 1.14–2.99, p < 0.01), age >50 years (OR = 3.10; 95% CI: 1.91–5.02, p < 0.0001), and BMI (OR = 1.07; CI: 1.04–1.09, 0.0001). In meta-analysis of 12 prior studies and this one, T2DM risk was OR = 1.09 (95% CI: 1.03–1.15, p < 0.004) fixed effects and 1.22 (95% CI: 1.04–1.44, p < 0.02) random effects. Discussion: Chronic environmental Cd exposure was associated with T2DM in a smelter community, controlling for covariates. T2DM onset <50 years was significantly associated with Cd exposure, but >50 years was not. Meta-analysis suggests that Cd exposure is associated with a small, but significant increased risk for T2DM. Available data suggest Cd exposure is associated with an increased propensity to increased insulin resistance.

1571-P: Cadmium and Type 2 Diabetes in a Superfund Site Lead Smelter Community in Dallas, Texas

Introduction: Six of 14 prior studies reported significant associations between cadmium (Cd) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Materials and Methods: In a Superfund Cleanup community, Phase II screening included physical examination and laboratory tests. Participants were African Americans aged ≥19 years to ≦89 years. Multiple logistic regression was used. Results: Of 873 subjects environmentally exposed, 109 T2DM individuals who lived in the community for an average of 21.0 years, and 766 non-T2DM individuals resident in the study community for 19.0 years. Most T2DM individuals (70.3%) were ≥50 years old (p&amp;lt;0.00001). Blood Cd levels were significantly higher among T2DM subjects (p&amp;lt;0.006). T2DM status was regressed on age ≥50 years, Cd, other metals, decades of residence in smelter community, gender, abnormal GGT, and smoking. T2DM predictors were age ≥ 50 years (OR = 3.10; 95% CI: 1.91-5.02, p&amp;lt;0.0001), Cd level (OR = 1.85; 95% CI: 1.14 - 2.99, p &amp;lt; 0.01), and BMI (OR=1.07; CI: 1.04-1.09). Discussion: Cd exposure is associated with T2DM in an EPA Superfund community, controlling for covariate effects. Comparing our findings with 14 prior Cd and T2DM studies shows that T2DM rates less than 10% were not sufficiently powered, unless OR ≥ 3.0 (See Figure). Findings suggest that Cd is associated with T2DM, and studies failing to show a significant effect may have a Type II error, and not an indication of no association. Disclosure B.B. Little: None. R.F. Reilly: None. B. Walsh: None.

Biochemical, hematological and immunological parameters and relationship with occupational exposure to pesticides and metals.

This study aimed to evaluate biomarkers of exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors insecticides (AChE and BuChE activities) and metals (As, Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni, and Pb blood levels) and their associations with biochemical, hematological, and immunological parameters in farmers from Southern Brazil. One hundred and sixteen individuals were divided into two groups: 62 farmers (exposed group) and 54 subjects non-occupationally exposed (NOE) to agrochemicals. Erythrocyte (AChE) and serum (BuChE) cholinesterases activities were significantly reduced as well as blood Cd and Pb levels were increased in farmers when compared to NOE group (p< 0.05). Farmers presented increased glucose and urea levels compared to NOE group, which were inversely associated with AChE and positively correlated with Cd (p< 0.05), respectively. In addition, Cd was inversely associated with the hematological cells counts, which were significantly reduced in farmers (p< 0.05). C3 complement was higher in farmers and was positively associated with blood Pb (p< 0.05). Surface protein expression analysis revealed a downregulation of LFA-1 and ICAM-1 in farmers. Inverse associations were found between LFA-1 and blood As, Cr, and Ni levels (p< 0.05). Taken together, our results pointed to a relationship between agrochemicals and metals exposure and biochemical, hematological, and immunological disorders that can lead to several chronic conditions.

Blood cadmium levels and sources of exposure in an adult urban population in southern Brazil

BackgroundCadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal that is widely present in the environment due to geologic and anthropogenic sources. Exposures to high Cd levels may cause nephrotoxicity, carcinogenicity, pulmonary and cardiovascular disease, among others. The goal of this study was to investigate in an adult urban population whether an association exists between sources and levels of Cd exposure and blood Cd concentrations. MethodsUsing a census-based design, a total of 959 adults, aged 40 years or older, were randomly selected. Information on socio-demographics, dietary, and lifestyle background was obtained by household interviews. Blood Cd levels were measured by inductively coupled-plasma mass spectrometry. Geometric means (GM) (95% CI) and the 50th percentile were determined, stratified by sex, age, race, education, income class, smoking status, consumption of vegetables, red meat and milk, occupation and blood pressure. To assess the association between Cd exposure and the aforementioned variables, we estimated the geometric mean ratio (GMR) (95%CI) of blood Cd concentrations. Results and conclusionThe geometric mean (95%CI) of blood Cd levels in the total population was 0.25 (0.22, 0.27) ug/dL. In a univariate analysis, significantly higher blood Cd levels were found in men (p < 0.001), current and former smokers (p < 0.001), alcohol drinkers (p < 0.001), those who never or almost never consumed milk (p < 0.001), and in subjects with higher diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.03). Significant correlations were found between the number of cigarettes consumed daily and blood Cd levels. Multivariate analysis confirmed higher blood Cd concentrations were associated with alcohol consumption (GMR 95%CI = 1.28, 1.04–1.59) and in former and current smokers (GMR 95% IC = 1.33, 1.06–1.67 and 4.23, 3.24–5.52, respectively). Our results shed novel information on variables associated with blood Cd levels in an urban Brazilian population, and should encourage additional research to prevent environmental Cd exposure, both in Brazil and globally.

Metal Levels, Genetic Instability, and Renal Markers in Electronic Waste Workers in Thailand.

Background: Informal electronic waste (e-waste) recycling is an increasingly important industry worldwide. However, few studies have studied the health risks in this group of workers. Objective: To assess the associations between occupational exposures to metals and genetic instability and renal markers among e-waste recycling workers. Methods: We recruited informal e-waste recycling workers from a community in northeastern Thailand. Participants completed a questionnaire, several health measurements, and provided urine and blood samples, which we then analyzed for a number of metals including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and manganese (Mn). Samples were analyzed for a marker of RNA and DNA damage (ie, oxidative stress), 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and fractional excretion of calcium (FECa%) were measured as markers of renal function. Correlations and regression models were used to assess associations between these various factors. Results: We found significantly higher levels of Cd and Pb in blood of men compared with those in women. Men who worked >48 hours/week had significantly higher levels of 8-OHdG compared with men who worked ≤48 hours/week. Smoking was significantly associated with higher blood Pb and Cd concentrations among men. Conclusion: Our results suggest gender differences in both blood concentrations of metals associated with e-waste recycling and smoking and highlight potentially elevated oxidative stress associated with longer work hours. Health promotion efforts are needed among informal e-waste recyclers to reduce possible risks of renal damage and cancer.

Longitudinally monitored lifetime changes in blood heavy metal concentrations and their health effects in urban birds

Urban heavy metal pollution can impair the health of humans and other organisms inhabiting cities. While birds are suggested as one of the appropriate bioindicators for essential and non-essential trace element monitoring, the process of particular elements' accumulation in blood and its possible adverse health effects during ageing of individuals remain unexplored. We have investigated lifetime changes in blood lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As) and zinc (Zn) concentrations and searched for links to health-related traits in sub-urban free-living great tit (Parus major) population monitored over a long period of time. The blood As concentrations were under the limit of detection in most samples. The blood Pb levels showed a non-linear relationship to individuals age, where the highest Pb concentrations were measured in nestlings and in a very small group of highly senescent birds (over 7 years old), while no clear trend was observed for the majority of the adult age stages. No age-related patterns were found for blood Cd or Zn concentrations. The positive relationship between date of capture and blood Cd and Zn levels may reflect seasonal changes in diet composition. We did not reveal any anaemia-like conditions (decreased total erythrocyte count or increased immature erythrocyte count) in relation to blood heavy metal concentrations in the investigated birds. Total leukocyte counts, heterophil/lymphocyte (H/L) ratio and total heterophil and lymphocyte counts increased with increasing Pb, Cd and Zn concentrations in blood. This study demonstrates the suitability of avian blood for actual heavy metal spatial and temporal biomonitoring even in situations when the precise age of the individuals remains unknown.

Study on maternal-fetal status of Pb, Cd, As, Hg, Mn and Se elements and transplacental transfer efficiency

Objective: To understand the levels of Pb, Cd, As, Hg, Mn, and Se in maternal and umbilical cord blood, and to explore the transplacental transfer efficiency (TTE). Methods: From September 2010 to December 2013, a total of 773 pregnant women and their newborns (Laizhou Bay Birth Cohort) were recruited from a second grade hospital in the south bank of Laizhou Bay, Bohai, Shandong Province. According to different detection methods, the six measured elements are classified into three groups including the Hg measurement group (595 mother-newborn pairs), the Pb measurement group (534 mother-newborn pairs), and the Cd, As, Mn and Se measurement group (244 mother-newborn pairs). The demographic characteristics of pregnant women and their newborns were obtained by the questionnaire. The concentrations of elements in maternal and umbilical cord blood were detected and the TTE of each element (elemental concentration in cord blood/elemental concentration in maternal blood) was calculated. The correlation of elements between maternal and cord blood was analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Results: The mean±SD of maternal age, gestational week and newborn birth weight of 773 mother-infant pairs were (28.34±4.50) years, (39.47±1.39) weeks and (3 419.47±497.39) g respectively. The median concentrations of Pb, Cd, As, Hg, Mn and As in maternal and cord blood were 31.12 and 30.02, 1.19 and 0.47, 8.05 and 6.03, 0.69 and 1.26, 100.70 and 105.55, 127.25 and 115.00 μg/L, respectively. The TTE of Pb, Cd, As, Hg, Mn, and Se was 0.98, 0.41, 0.73, 1.73, 0.96 and 0.91, respectively. Pb, Cd, Hg, Mn, and Se showed a significant positive correlation between maternal blood and cord blood, with Spearman correlation coefficients of 0.397, 0.298, 0.698, 0.555, and 0.285 (all P values<0.001). Conclusion: Each element was commonly detected in maternal blood and cord blood. The TTE of Hg was the highest.

Association between Blood Heavy Metal Levels and Predicted 10-Year Risk for A First Atherosclerosis Cardiovascular Disease in the General Korean Population.

Background: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a preventable type of disease, thus, specifying factors that increase the occurrence of this type of disease is needed. Heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg) have been suggested as possible factors influencing the development of cardiovascular disease. We aimed to link blood heavy metal levels (Cd, Pb, Hg) with 10-year ASCVD risk scores. Methods: A population of 993 men and 1431 women who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) were included. The 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) pooled cohort equations risk prediction model and Korean Risk Prediction Model (KRPM) were used as means for risk prediction. Following multivariate adjustment; blood Cd; Pb; and Hg levels were divided into quartiles for analysis using linear trends estimation and multiple regression models. Results: There was an overall positive trend between blood Cd, Pb, and Hg levels and 10-year ASCVD risk scores; KRPM risk score increasing by quartile for blood Cd (men p < 0.0001, women p = 0.0024), Pb (men p = 0.0097, women p = 0.0330), Hg (men p = 0.0096, women p = 0.0030) rates and pooled cohort equations risk score increasing by quartile for Cd (men p < 0.0001, women p = 0.0034) and Hg (men p = 0.0099, women p = 0.0010) with linear trends. Urban population showed a stronger relationship between blood Cd, Pb, and Hg levels and 10-year ASCVD risk score especially among men with multiple regression analysis. Conclusion: Blood Cd, Pb, and Hg levels are associated with ASCVD risk. Thus, they should be considered while developing preventive measures for ASCVD.

Metal(loid) exposure assessment and biomarker responses in captive and free-ranging European brown bear (Ursus arctos)

We investigated the level of five non-essential metal(loid)s (As, Cd, Hg, Tl, Pb) and nine essential metals (Mg, Ca, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Se, Mo) in hair and blood components of captive and free-ranging European brown bear populations in Croatia and Poland. Metal(loid) associations with biomarkers of oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase, SOD; glutathione-peroxidase, GSH-Px; malondialdehyde, MDA) and metal exposure (metallothionein, MT) were estimated in this top predatory mammal. Lead was the most abundant non-essential metal(loid) in both blood and hair, with 4 of 35 individuals having blood levels over 100 μg/L. A positive association was found between Pb level and SOD activity in blood. Free-ranging bears had higher blood SOD activity, Mn, Zn and Cd levels, hair Co, Cd, Tl and Pb compared to captive individuals, while the opposite was true for Mg and hair Ca thereby reflecting habitat and diet differences. With increasing age, animals showed lower levels of SOD activity and certain essential metals. Females had higher SOD activity and blood levels of some essential metals than males. Hair showed a higher Fe and Co level when sampled during the growth phase and was not predictive of non-essential metal(loid) blood levels. The established metal(loid) baseline values will enable future risk assessment in both captive and wild European brown bear populations.

Cadmium, lead and mercury in the blood of workers from recycling sorting facilities in São Paulo, Brazil.

Approximately 600,000 people work as recycling material collectors in Brazil and few studies evaluate the health risks involved in this occupation. The objective was to evaluate the blood levels of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg) among workers from recycling sorting facilities (RSF) in the metropolitan region of São Paulo, Brazil, compare the results with a non-occupationally exposed population, and identify factors associated with higher blood metal levels. Four RSF were selected and 226 collectors were examined for their blood metal levels and associated factors. The mean concentration of Cd (arithmetic mean - AM: 0.47µgL-1; geometric mean - GM: 0.34µgL-1) was almost four times higher than those found in a reference study. The generalized linear model (GLM) indicated that the "RSF where the collectors work", "work in another occupation", and "smoking" were statistically significant predictors of blood Cd levels. The Pb mean concentration (AM: 39.13µgL-1; GM: 34.11µgL-1) was also higher than the observed in the reference study (about 1.4 times) and its associated factors in the GLM were "the RSF where the collectors work", "sex", "smoking", "age" and "meat consumption". The Hg mean concentration (AM: 1.46µgL-1; GM: 0.94µgL-1) was not significantly higher than the reference population and its associated factors were "previous work in other RSF", "fish consumption" and "years of work in the current RSF". This study indicates that recycling material collectors have higher blood Cd and Pb levels compared to the general population.

Evaluation of oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines in occupationally cadmium exposed workers.

Cadmium (Cd) exposure in environmental and occupational settings is a major public health concern. Cd exposure is associated with the production of free radicle and reactive oxygen species. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of occupational exposure to Cd on oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory biomarkers in the workers. 100 occupationally exposed individuals working in the metal handicraft industry and welding industry were recruited from the industrial area of Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Blood Cd levels were estimated using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Serum Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC), Catalase (CAT), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), and Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured by colorimetric method to assess oxidative status and serum IL-6 and TNF-α were measured by ELISA to assess inflammatory status. The median Cd levels in the study population was 2.40μg/L, with welders having significantly higher Cd levels than metal handicraft workers. Among the oxidative stress markers, TAC and CAT were significantly lower, while MDA was significantly higher in subjects with high Cd levels. The Cd levels showed a significant negative and positive correlation with TAC and MDA, respectively. IL- 6 and TNF-α did not show a significant difference between the study groups, but both had an inverse correlation with antioxidant enzymes. Occupational exposure to even low levels of Cd may result in oxidative stress in workers primarily via decrease in antioxidant enzymes and increasing lipid peroxidation. Increased oxidative stress in turn may result in immune cell activation which may result in increased concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokine in the exposed workers.

Human biomonitoring to evaluate exposure to toxic and essential trace elements during pregnancy. Part B: Predictors of exposure

Maternal exposure to toxic and essential trace elements represents a surrogate of exposure to the unborn child. Variables of exposure as sociodemographic, lifestyles and diet may contribute to different exposure of pregnant women to specific trace elements. Blood, urine and cord blood samples of 53 pregnant women of the HEALS-EXHES cohort, recruited in Reus (Catalonia, Spain) between 2016 and 2017, were analysed for the concentrations of As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se and Zn. Univariate and multivariate models were built in order to assess associations between element concentrations in each matrix, and variables obtained by questionnaires on mothers’ characteristics and dietary habits. Results showed several significant associations between various variables and essential trace and toxic elements.Age was associated with higher levels of Cd and Pb in cord blood samples. Multiparous women showed lower levels of Cd in maternal blood and Pb in both maternal and cord blood than nulliparous women. Hispanic mothers presented higher levels of blood As and lower levels of blood Se compared to mothers of different ethnicity. Higher education level was associated with higher As and Hg concentrations in both maternal and cord blood samples. Higher annual income diminished the level of Pb in maternal blood. Smoking in pregnancy incremented the levels of Cd in mothers’ blood. Alcohol consumption may affect the absorption of Cu, Mn and Zn. Supplementations with multivitamins, folic acid and iron showed effects on elements as Cr, Mn, Se and Zn. Regarding food group intake, bluefish incremented Pb levels, while canned fish and seafood affected levels of some elements as As, Hg, Cu and Se. Other elements such as Mn and Pb were influenced by the intake of different kinds of foods.The present results showed that some modifiable lifestyles and food intakes could be the target of interventions to help pregnant women to maintain suitable concentrations of essential elements and lower levels of toxic ones, and to improve consequently neonatal health outcomes.

The association between heavy metal and serum cholesterol levels in the US population: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009-2012.

Few studies have examined the relationship between heavy metal and serum cholesterol levels, and no recent study has examined this relationship in the US population. A total of 19,591 individuals aged 0-80 years were included in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009-2012; the current study was composed of survey participants for whom some or all low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), serum triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, blood lead (Pb), total blood mercury (Hg), and blood cadmium (Cd) levels had been measured. Three tertiles (T1-T3) of heavy metals were used to explore dose-response association between heavy metal exposure and serum cholesterol level. Logistic regression was used to explore the relationship between tertiles of blood heavy metal levels and serum cholesterol levels after adjusting for age, sex, and socioeconomic status. We have shown that the groups with the highest levels of Pb, Hg, and Cd had a 56%, 73%, and 41% chance, respectively, of having a high total cholesterol level. In study subjects with the highest Pb levels, there was also a 22% chance of being in the group with the highest LDL-C level. An increase in total cholesterol and LDL-C levels was observed from the first to the third tertiles of the heavy metals studied. Increasing blood Pb, Hg, and Cd levels were associated with significantly increased odds of high total cholesterol after adjusting for age, sex, and socioeconomic status.

A comparative study of cadmium levels in blood from exposed populations in an industrial area of the Amazon, Brazil

Chemical pollution from industrial sources is one of the main problems affecting the environment. In urban areas, the emission of toxic gases and particulates to the atmosphere can damage human health. Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most ecotoxic metals among these pollutants, even at low concentrations. In this study, environmental exposure to Cd was evaluated from the Cd blood levels (CdB) of the human populations living in two Amazonian districts. The first was Bairro Industrial (BIN), which is located next to the industrial complex in Barcarena City, while the second was Vila do Beja (VBJ), a control group located in the farthest area from industrial activities in Abaetetuba City. Sectional and comparative studies were applied for both districts. Sampling (N = 469) occurred in 2012 and 2013. Gender, age, residence time, drinking water source, alcohol consumption, and smoking were used as independent variables. CdB levels were analyzed by induced coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). In BIN, geometric mean and median CdB levels were 0.27 and 0.43 μg∙L−1, respectively (range: ≤0.03–17.49 μg∙L−1), while in VBJ these were 0.19 and 0.23 μg∙L−1 (range: ≤0.03–2.38 μg∙L−1). The higher CdB concentration in the blood of people from BIN was similar to levels previously found in people living near other industrial areas, and showed that the BIN residents were more exposed to Cd pollution. The studies showed the need for surveillance actions to evaluate possible routes of exposure, avoiding the future worsening of the health of the population living next to industrial areas in the Amazon.

Cadmium exposure and MEG3 methylation differences between Whites and African Americans in the NEST Cohort.

Cadmium (Cd) is a ubiquitous environmental pollutant associated with a wide range of health outcomes including cancer. However, obscure exposure sources often hinder prevention efforts. Further, although epigenetic mechanisms are suspected to link these associations, gene sequence regions targeted by Cd are unclear. Aberrant methylation of a differentially methylated region (DMR) on the MEG3 gene that regulates the expression of a cluster of genes including MEG3, DLK1, MEG8, MEG9 and DIO3 has been associated with multiple cancers. In 287 infant–mother pairs, we used a combination of linear regression and the Getis-Ord Gi* statistic to determine if maternal blood Cd concentrations were associated with offspring CpG methylation of the sequence region regulating a cluster of imprinted genes including MEG3. Correlations were used to examine potential sources and routes. We observed a significant geographic co-clustering of elevated prenatal Cd levels and MEG3 DMR hypermethylation in cord blood (P = 0.01), and these findings were substantiated in our statistical models (β = 1.70, se = 0.80, P = 0.03). These associations were strongest in those born to African American women (β = 3.52, se = 1.32, P = 0.01) compared with those born to White women (β = 1.24, se = 2.11, P = 0.56) or Hispanic women (β = 1.18, se = 1.24, P = 0.34). Consistent with Cd bioaccumulation during the life course, blood Cd levels increased with age (β = 0.015 µg/dl/year, P = 0.003), and Cd concentrations were significantly correlated between blood and urine (ρ > 0.47, P < 0.01), but not hand wipe, soil or house dust concentrations (P > 0.05). Together, these data support that prenatal Cd exposure is associated with aberrant methylation of the imprint regulatory element for the MEG3 gene cluster at birth. However, neither house-dust nor water are likely exposure sources, and ingestion via contaminated hands is also unlikely to be a significant exposure route in this population. Larger studies are required to identify routes and sources of exposure.

Effects of Lead, Mercury, and Cadmium Co-exposure on Children’s Pulmonary Function

Accumulating evidence has shown that toxic metals exposure can have adverse effects on children, but the effects of blood Pb, Hg, and Cd co-exposure on pulmonary function in children remains to be clarified. This cross-sectional multicenter study was conducted in Wuxi City, China. A total of 221 healthy children free from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were recruited. The blood samples were collected while blood Pb, Hg, and Cd levels were determined. The forced vital capacity volume (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in the 1s (FEV1) were measured. The associations between metals concentration and pulmonary function were analyzed by multiple linear regression models. The geometric means of the blood Pb, Hg, and Cd levels in our study were 37.27μg/L, 1.41μg/L, and 0.28μg/L, respectively. After adjusting for age, sex, maternal education, annual family income, fish consumption, and second-hand smoking exposure, only the blood Pb levels were significantly negatively associated with the pulmonary function. In addition, a significantly positive interaction between blood Pb and blood Cd on pulmonary function were also detected. Although causal relationship cannot be confirmed in this study, at least higher levels of Pb in blood are associated with decreased pulmonary parameters in children.

Associations between socioeconomic status and blood cadmium levels in Korea.

OBJECTIVESAlthough smoking is associated with both low socioeconomic status and blood cadmium (Cd) levels, the association between socioeconomic status and Cd levels remains unclear. Therefore, our study aimed to examine this association and to clarify whether smoking is a confounding or mediating variable in this relationship.METHODSData (n=7,734) were drawn from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES, 2008- 2011), including years that contained data on blood Cd and urinary cotinine levels. We investigated the associations of income, education, and occupation with blood Cd levels. Smoking was investigated by categorizing participants by smoking status (never, former, and current) and pack-years into quartiles. The weekly frequency of rice and barley intake was analyzed to gain insights into participants’ dietary patterns. Additionally, urinary cotinine levels were used to ensure the validity of the smoking variables.RESULTSParticipants earning a low income and with less formal education had higher blood Cd levels. After controlling for smoking, the association between income and Cd levels substantially weakened. Further controlling for education, the association between income and Cd levels disappeared. However, there was a strong negative association between education and Cd levels, even after controlling for smoking history, pack-years, and urinary cotinine levels.CONCLUSIONSIn cross-sectional data from the KNHANES, blood Cd levels were significantly higher among those with a low income and less formal education. Smoking history contributed to, but did not fully explain, these associations.

Placental barrier permeability to Cadmium and Plumbum during cow pregnancy and at the foaling time of mares

The paper explores placental barrier permeability to Cadmium (Cd) and Plumbum (Pb) in cows in the dynamics of their pregnancy in the direction ‘maternal blood (MB) → maternal placental compartment (MPC) → fetal placental compartment (FPC) → the umbilical cord (UC) → fetal liver (FL) → amniotic (AMF) and allantoic (ALF) fluid’ and during parturition in relatively clean and contaminated with radioactive nuclides environments, with the injection of tissue medication fetoplacentat in the dry off time, and feeding with a mixture of saponite and sulphur supplementation in rations; in mares at the foaling time in the direction ‘maternal blood (MBm) → the fetal placental compartment of a mare (FPCm) → the umbilical cord of a foal (UCf ) → the foal’s liver (FLf) → amniotic (AMFf) and allantoic (ALFf) fluid → the allantoic membrane of a foal (ALMf)’. The age of the fetus during pregnancy was established by anatomical parameters, whereas Pb and Cd levels in blood and substrates were measured by the method of atomic absorption spectrophotometry (GOST 30170896). The MPC (caruncle) and FPC (cotyledon) were analyzed separately. Their barrier function in relation to Pb and Cd was performed at its full extent in 4–5 months of pregnancy and coincided with the highest concentration in the fetal liver. Wharton’s jelly absorbed Cd in 3–4 months of gestation. With the approach of calving, Pb and Cd levels decreased in the amniotic fluid and increased in the allantoic fluid. Under the influence of fetoplacentat in MPC and FPC Cd accumulated better in AMF and ALF, whereas its levels were lower in the cortical mucus of the cervix. Pb deposited in equal concentrations in MPC of all the cows (0.46 ± 0.18 μg/kg in the contaminated environment and 0.47 ± 0.17 μg/kg in the relatively clean environment). In the relatively clean environment its levels in ALF were lower in 8 times (0.62 ± 0.16 μg/kg and 0.08 ± 0.04 μg/kg) and 26 times lower in AMF (0.52 ± 0.07 μg/kg and 0.02 ± 0.002 μg/kg), whereas Pb concentration in the cortical mucus of the cervix was 17 times lower (0.06 ± 0.03μg/kg) than that in the contaminated environment, (1.01 ± 0.28 μg/kg). Pb transited from MPC (0.46 ± 0.18 μg/kg) to FPC (0.51 ± 0.19 μg/kg), deposited in the internal environment of the uterus wherefrom it was absorbed by the cortical mucus of the cervix (1.01 ± 0.28 μg/kg). While transiting through the fetal body Pb accumulated in amniotic (0.52 ± 0.07 μg/kg) and allantoic fluid (0.62 ± 0.16 μg/kg). Mineral supplement in rations led to a weakened barrier function of MPC (0.23 ± 0.14 μg/kg), a two-fold increase of Pb in FPC (0.47 ± 0.11 μg/kg), whereas in the allantoic (0.16 ± 0.05 μg/kg) and amniotic (0.38 ± 0.10 μg/kg) fluid Pb concentration was lower when compared to the control group (0.62 ± 0.16 μg/kg; Р &lt; 0.05 і 0.52 ± 0.07 μg/kg; Р &lt; 0.05, respectively). Pb deposited in the cortical mucus of the cervix (2.47 ± 0.26 μg/kg; Р &lt; 0.001). With the injection of fetoplacentat the barrier function of MPC became weaker (0.06 ± 0.01 μg/kg) than that of the control group (0.46 ± 0.17 μg/kg – 0.57 ± 0.18 μg/kg), though the decrease was exhibited less than in the cortical mucus of the cervix (0.67 ± 0.06 μg/kg). At the first stage of foaling Pb levels in mares’ blood were twice as high as Cd; in UCf Pb was not identified, Cd didn’t deposit but penetrated into the fetal liver where its levels were 11 times higher than that of Pb. Presence of Cd in allantoic fluid indicated its ability to excrete through the kidneys. Рb concentration in ALMf were 26 times higher than in the chorion and 3.7 times higher in FPCm than in ALFf. Pb levels in amniotic fluid were 1.3 times lower than in allantoic fluid and almost 4.2 times lower than in the fetal liver. Pb levels in AMF and ALF exceeded its concentration in the umbilical cord by 24.5 and 31 times respectively.