Environmental Exposure Research Articles

Altered nasal and oral microbiomes define pediatric sickle cell disease.

The oral and nasal cavities are susceptible to environmental exposures including pathogenic microbes. In individuals with systemic disorders, antibiotic exposure, changes to the immune system, or changes to organ function could influence the composition of the microbes at these sites and the overall health of individuals. Children with sickle cell disease (SCD) commonly experience respiratory infections, such as pneumonia or sinusitis, and may have increased susceptibility to infection because of disrupted microbiota at these body sites. We found that children with SCD (cwSCD) had more pathobiont bacteria in the nasal cavity and reduced bacterial diversity in the oral cavity compared to their healthy siblings. Defining when, why, and how these changes occur in cwSCD could help identify specific microbial signatures associated with susceptibility to infection or adverse outcomes, providing insights into personalized treatment strategies and preventive measures.

Assessment of blood metals and dietary health risks in older adults from an Eastern Chinese community based on Monte Carlo simulation.

Assessing blood metal levels in older adults is crucial for monitoring nutritional, occupational, and environmental exposures, as environmental metals may potentially affect the health of older people through dietary intake. In this study, we collected blood samples from 2493 older participants in Yiwu, China. 11 metal elements in whole blood were measured using ICP-MS. Monte Carlo simulation was applied to estimate population-level blood metal distributions and use for risk quantification. Dietary metal intake was assessed through food frequency questionnaires. Then it was employed to evaluate health risks from dietary metal exposure. Results of Monte Carlo simulation showed that the medians of Cu, As, Cd, Mn and Cr were 752.69 (682.84, 824.36), 1.94 (1.36, 2.80), 1.40 (0.85, 2.32), 12.78 (10.56, 15.48), 0.44 (0.28, 0.70) µg/L and Fe, and Zn were 332.59 (276.73, 385.13), 4.95 (4.45, 5.48) mg/L. Concentrations of Se, Fe, Zn, As, Cd, Hg, and Pb were significantly higher in men than in women, while Cu and Mn levels were lower in men. Hazard quotients (HQ > 1) for Zn (HQ = 1.108, IQR = 0.857-1.215) indicated unacceptable non-carcinogenic risks, while incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCR > 1 × 10⁻4) for Cr (ILCR = 1.295 × 10⁻3, IQR = 8.725 × 10⁻4-1.798 × 10⁻3), As (ILCR = 3.299 × 10⁻4, IQR = 2.049 × 10⁻4-5.991 × 10⁻4), and Cd (ILCR = 3.263 × 10⁻4, IQR = 2.747 × 10⁻4-3.878 × 10⁻4) suggested potential carcinogenic risks. Findings indicated potential health risks from dietary metal exposure in this population. Implementing comprehensive interventions to reduce exposure levels and optimize dietary patterns was essential. Future monitoring should prioritize heavy metal surveillance in food and drinking water.

Association of cobalt exposure with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in U.S. adults

BackgroundCobalt exposure is recognized as a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the impact of cobalt exposure on mortality, particularly concerning CVD-related deaths, in the U.S. remains uncertain.MethodsData from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) spanning 1999–2018 were utilized to assess urinary cobalt levels in participants aged 20 years and older (n = 15,873). For the analysis of blood cobalt, data from NHANES covering the years 2015–2018 were considered, limited to participants aged 40 years and older (n = 6,692). The follow-up period extended until December 31, 2019.ResultsThe median values of ln-transformed urinary cobalt (creatinine corrected) and blood cobalt were − 1.10 ln(µg/g) and − 1.90 ln(µg/L), respectively. For urinary cobalt, during a median follow-up period of 130.0 months (interquartile range: 70.25–189.0), 2,304 participants died, with 613 deaths attributed to CVD. After adjusting for potential covariates, an increase in urinary cobalt level was significantly associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality and CVD mortality (per 1 ln-unit increment, HR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.32; HR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.60, respectively). For blood cobalt, the adjusted HRs were 1.57 (95% CI: 1.15, 2.14) for all-cause mortality and 2.02 (95% CI: 1.10, 3.72) for CVD mortality.ConclusionsIn the U.S., low-level environmental cobalt exposure is a significant risk factor for both all-cause mortality and CVD mortality.SynopsisCobalt, a metallic element commonly encountered by the general population through food, water, or air inhalation, emerges as a novel risk factor for cardiovascular disease mortality.

Association of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Gene Polymorphism (TNF-α 308 G/A) with Enhanced Severity of Metal-Induced Chronic Kidney Disease via Upregulation of Transmembrane Protein Expression.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive disorder often aggravated by environmental exposure to waterborne metal pollutants, such as lead (Pb), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn).These metals induce renal injury predominantly through oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) serving as a key mediator. The study aimed to investigate the association of the TNF-α -308 G/A (rs1800629) gene polymorphism and transmembrane(Tm)-TNF-α expression with the risk and severity of metal-induced CKD. A case-control study was conducted, including 80 patients with CKD (40 with early-stage and 40 with late-stage disease) and 40 age- and sex-matched healthy controls, selected according to stringent inclusion criteria. Metal concentrations were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), TNF-α genotyping was performed via amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR), and Tm-TNF-α levels were assessed by flow cytometry. The findings revealed that the A allele was significantly associated with increased CKD risk across dominant, recessive, and allelic genetic models. In a co-dominant model, the AA genotype conferred a fourfold and 15-fold higher risk for early- and late-stage CKD, respectively, compared to those with the GG genotype. Moreover, elevated Tm-TNF-α expression was significantly associated with the GA and AA genotypes and was most pronounced in late-stage CKD patients (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that the TNF-α -308 G/A polymorphism markedly enhances susceptibility to metal-induced CKD, driven by increased Tm-TNF-α expression. Understanding this genetic variation elucidates the pathogenesis of metal-induced nephropathy and offers new opportunities for early diagnosis and targeted therapeutic development.

Comparing phthalate exposure between bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) residing in urban and rural environments

IntroductionExposure to phthalate esters has previously been documented in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) inhabiting an urban estuary (Sarasota Bay, FL, USA; 2010-2019). Phthalates are chemicals commonly added to plastic products and consumer goods to enhance qualities such as flexibility, fragrance, and stability. Chemical leaching from products into the marine environment leaves wildlife vulnerable to reproductive, developmental, and metabolic impairment. Environmental phthalate exposure has been shown to vary relative to human activity and urbanization.MethodsTo evaluate potential differences in dolphin exposure risk, urine was collected from free-ranging bottlenose dolphins residing in an urban (Sarasota Bay, FL, USA; 2010-2024; n=71) and rural estuary (Barataria Bay, LA, USA; 2011- 2023; n=45). Urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations were quantified with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC; Agilent 1100; WatersXBridge BEH C18, 2.5 μm, 2.1x50 mm analytical column) coupled to a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (MS; Applied Biosystems Sciex API 4000) with an electrospray ionization (ESI negative) interface.ResultsThe magnitude of MEHP detection did not differ significantly between sampling sites (p=0.97); however, MEHP was detected more frequently in Sarasota Bay dolphins (73.24%; n=52; 95% CI: 61.20-82.73) than Barataria Bay dolphins (33.33%; n=15; 95% CI: 20.00-48.95%). Dolphins from Sarasota Bay may be exposed to a greater diversity of phthalates compared to Barataria Bay dolphins, indicated by differences in the detected phthalate metabolite profile.DiscussionNotably, dolphins from Barataria Bay were impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, with evidence suggesting long-term negative health outcomes. The endocrine-disrupting effects of phthalates could exacerbate metabolic, reproductive, or immune dysfunction in dolphins, especially those with compromised health. The higher phthalate detection frequency in Sarasota Bay dolphins suggests increased urban exposure risks; however, detection in dolphins from Barataria Bay raises concerns for dolphins in recovering ecosystems. Further research is needed to assess potential synergistic impacts of chemical mixtures, and targeted mitigation strategies in contaminated environments.

The association between urinary BPA concentrations and urinary incontinence in women

Urinary incontinence (UI) significantly impacts the quality of life and psychological well-being of female patients. Although emerging evidence suggests potential links between endocrine-disrupting chemicals and pelvic floor disorders, previous studies on the association between bisphenol A (BPA) exposure and UI in women have yielded inconsistent results. This study aimed to examine this potential association using data from the 2015–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (n = 467). Through multiple logistic regression analysis with three adjustment models: Model 1 (crude), Model 2 (adjusted for socio-demographic factors: age, race/ethnicity, education, marital status, and poverty ratio), and Model 3 (further adjusted for BMI, hypertension, diabetes, alcohol/smoking status, and delivery history), we assessed BPA exposure categorized into quartiles. No significant associations were observed between BPA exposure and either stress urinary incontinence (SUI) or mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) across all models (P > 0.05). However, participants in the highest BPA quartile (> 7.6 ng/mg creatinine) exhibited a significantly increased risk of urge urinary incontinence (UUI) in Model 1 (OR = 2.01, 95% CI [1.12–3.63]), Model 2 (OR = 2.04, 95% CI [1.08–3.85]), and Model 3 (OR = 2.48, 95% CI [1.18–5.20]). This study has several limitations, including its cross-sectional design, reliance on self-reported UI outcomes, single measurement of urinary BPA, and potential residual confounding from unmeasured factors. While these findings suggest that environmental BPA exposure may contribute to UUI risk in women, future longitudinal studies with repeated biomarker measurements and objective UI assessments are needed to confirm these observations and explore potential mechanisms. If validated, reducing BPA exposure through public health interventions could emerge as a novel preventive strategy for UUI.

Impact of moisture and temperature on the flexural properties of 3D-printed carbon fiber-reinforced polyamide composites

This study examines the flexural properties of 3D-printed composites reinforced with short and continuous carbon fibers in a polyamide (PA) matrix before and after conditioning at 22°C/90% relative humidity. Flexural tests were performed on as-printed “dry” and conditioned “wet” samples at temperatures of 22–50°C. The materials tested were Onyx (PA with short carbon fiber reinforcement), Onyx + cCF (Onyx reinforced with continuous carbon fibers), and ULTEM 9085 (polyetherimide blend), a moisture and temperature resistant thermoplastic. Results showed that Onyx and Onyx + cCF were significantly affected by both moisture and temperature. At room temperature, Onyx dry exhibited 18% and 15% greater flexural modulus and strength, respectively, than Onyx wet, but the properties of Onyx dry decreased more rapidly than Onyx wet with increasing temperature, leading to a 68% and 29% greater flexural modulus and strength, respectively, for Onyx wet at 50°C. Onyx + cCF absorbed the greatest amount of moisture, leading to the greatest rate of decrease in flexural modulus and strength with increasing temperature. These results demonstrate the need to more thoroughly characterize the effects of moisture and temperature on the mechanical properties of 3D printed PA composites to understand their performance in applications requiring environmental exposure.

Effects of cooking with liquefied petroleum gas or biomass fuels on neurodevelopmental outcomes in pre-school aged children living in Puno, Peru.

Burning biomass fuels for cooking is a widespread environmental exposure that may adversely affect child health. We conducted an 18-month randomized field trial comparing a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) stove, continuous fuel delivery and behavioral messaging intervention starting in pregnancy through infancy with usual cooking practices using biomass fuels in Puno, Peru. A total of 800 pregnant women were enrolled. The intervention successfully lowered personal exposures to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) during pregnancy and infancy. We sought to evaluate the effects of the intervention on neurodevelopment among pre-school aged offspring. We conducted a longitudinal follow-up study in a subset of Peruvian children born during the trial and assessed neurodevelopment between 24 and 36 months of age. Trained staff measured neurodevelopment using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development Third Edition (Bayley-III). The Bayley-III neurodevelopmental assessment test yields separate cognition, language, and motor scores. We measured personal exposures to PM2.5 three times during pregnancy and three times in infancy. We conducted modified intention-to-treat analyses of the intervention on Bayley-III scores, and exposure-response analyses between pre-natal and post-natal PM2.5 exposures and Bayley-III scores. A total of 301 children (mean age 29.0 ± 3.5 months; 47.8% girls; and 54.8% in intervention) were visited. Mean cognitive, language and motor scores were 90.8 ± 11.0, 89.0 ± 10.8, and 95.3 ± 12.9, respectively. On intention-to-treat, the adjusted differences between intervention and control arms were -1.9 (98.3% CI -4.9 to 1.2), -2.9 (-6.0 to 0.1), and -1.4 (-5.0 to 2.3) for the composite cognitive, language, and motor scores, respectively. We did not identify associations between PM2.5 exposures during the 18-month intervention and any of the Bayley-III scores, or when the personal exposures to PM2.5 were separated as either prenatal or post-natal. The LPG intervention did not improve neurodevelopment in Peruvian children. We also did not find an association between prenatal or post-natal PM2.5 exposures and neurodevelopment. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP15500.

From childhood to adulthood: persistence of environmental exposure to PM2.5

ABSTRACT This article investigates the persistence of environmental exposure to PM 2.5 across life stages. Using restricted data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, the instrumental variable analysis shows that childhood environmental exposure has significant effects on later-life environmental exposure. The results hold whether we measure environmental exposure in terms of PM 2.5 ranks or absolute concentration levels. Our findings contribute to the extensive literature on intergenerational mobility and highlight the importance of further research to better understand the mechanisms behind the persistence, as well as policies to disrupt such persistence across generations.

Where There is Smoke: An Updated Review of Environmental Contributions to Chronic Rhinosinusitis.

The pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is thought to include a complex interaction between environmental exposures and host immune responses that generates a self-perpetuating inflammatory process. As molecular pathways continue to be explored, the impact of environmental exposures on CRS pathogenesis and exacerbation must not be overlooked. This review will explore the association between environmental exposures and CRS, specifically focusing on tobacco smoke, occupational inhalational exposures, air pollution, particulate matter, and wildfire smoke. Tobacco smoke is associated with increased prevalence of CRS symptoms and formal diagnosis with worse surgical outcomes observed in both adults and children exposed to tobacco smoke. Numerous occupational exposures have been associated with increased sinonasal symptoms, though exposures and disease definitions are often poorly characterized. Pollution and microparticle exposure has been associated with an increased likelihood of CRS diagnosis, as well as increased need for surgery. Last, while wildfire smoke has been attributed to increased hospital and emergency room visits for respiratory-related complaints, no primary research has yet been performed regarding CRS and wildfire smoke, though in-vitro studies support an association. Population-based studies bolstered by in-vitro mechanistic data support an association between numerous environmental exposures and the onset and severity of CRS.

Environmental modulators of vascular physiology and inflammation.

Environmental factors play a crucial role in modulating vascular inflammation, contributing significantly to the development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. This review synthesizes current evidence on how various environmental exposures influence vascular function and inflammation, with a focus on pollutants such as particulate matter and chemical toxins like bisphenols and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These environmental stressors can trigger oxidative stress, chronic inflammation and vascular dysfunction, potentially accelerating the progression of atherosclerosis. We also explore the protective effects of natural compounds and exposure to green spaces in dampening inflammation and reducing cardiovascular risk. By examining the complex interplay between traditional risk factors and environmental exposures, this work highlights the need for comprehensive public health strategies that address both individual lifestyle factors and broader environmental determinants of cardiovascular health. We underscore the importance of further research to elucidate the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms by which environmental factors influence vascular function, with the aim of developing targeted interventions to mitigate their harmful effects and promote cardiovascular well-being.

Contribution of Gas Chromatography—Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to the Volatile Organic Compound Profile of Vespa velutina nigrithorax Larvae

Vespa velutina is an invasive species introduced by accident into Europe. Since its entry, it has spread rapidly and become a threat to biodiversity and beekeeping. Chemical communication between hornets is one of the main reasons for the proper functioning of hornet colonies. These signals can be from endogenous and/or exogenous chemical compounds. In this work, the volatile organic compound profile of Vespa velutina larvae was obtained by GC-MS previous solvent extraction procedures. A total of 99 volatile compounds were identified in the larvae volatile profile, of which 33 were common to adult hornets, suggesting a possible endogenous origin and a functional role in physiological processes and chemical communication within the colony. A total of 42 compounds were detected exclusively in the larvae, belonging to aldehydes, alcohols, alkanes, alkenes, amines, ketones, piperidines, pyrrolidines, furanones, fatty acid esters, ethers, and pyridines chemical families. The detection of these compounds in larval stages, before environmental exposure, supports the hypothesis of their endogenous origin. The findings of this work can contribute to widening the knowledge of the biology and chemical composition of V. velutina and could help identify potential semiochemicals useful for the design of more selective and sustainable strategies for its control.

Identifying Environmental Chemicals Impacting Neurodevelopment using a random Mixture-Based Screening Approach.

Identifying Environmental Chemicals Impacting Neurodevelopment using a random Mixture-Based Screening Approach.

The Dark Triad of Particulate Matter, Oxidative Stress and Coronary Artery Disease: What About the Antioxidant Therapeutic Potential

Particulate matter (PM) is a complex mixture of particles with different adverse effects on health, especially on the cardiovascular (CV) risk and disease (e.g., increased risk of total and CV mortality, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, stroke, hypertension, dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes). Since oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation are the main key mechanisms by which PM exerted its biological effects on health, several oxidative and inflammatory-related biomarkers have been measured and associated with PM; abnormalities in these parameters in relation to PM highlight the key role of this relationship in terms of adverse health effects, including CV conditions. Antioxidant strategies might prevent/reverse, almost partly, CV effects related to PM exposure, by addressing OS and inflammation, although the clinical gain of these interventional tools is not yet clearly demonstrated. This review aims to summarize PM source and composition, discussing OS and inflammatory events associated with environmental PM exposure as key mechanistic determinants of CV risk and acute event precipitation. Moreover, the modifying potential of antioxidants, especially in subjects more susceptible to the adverse effects of air pollution and/or more highly exposed, will be discussed as a promising research area beyond conventional strategies actually available to prevent the harmful effects of PM (e.g., reduction of pollution sources and population exposure, assessment of air quality standards) in order to better face this dark triad composed of PM, OS and CV disease.

Benzo[a]pyrene-Induced Developmental Toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans: Potential Involvement of Insulin/IGF Signaling and Collagen Gene Dysregulation

Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) is a widespread and persistent organic pollutant that poses serious threats to human health. Although its carcinogenic properties have been extensively studied, its developmental toxicity and underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we employed Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) as a model organism to investigate the effects of B[a]P exposure during early developmental stages. To comprehensively assess B[a]P-induced developmental toxicity, we employed high-throughput sequencing along with transgenic and mutant C. elegans strains. Exposure to B[a]P at concentrations exceeding 1 mg/L significantly reduced larval body size, decreased the number of adult worms, and delayed larval-to-adult development. Furthermore, we analyzed the expression of genes involved in cuticle collagen synthesis and key components of the insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling (IIS) pathway, including daf-2 and daf-16. These findings suggest that B[a]P-induced developmental toxicity may be associated with dysregulation of the IIS pathway. Specifically, B[a]P appears to influence the activity of the downstream transcription factor daf-16, thereby altering the expression of collagen-related genes. This disruption in collagen synthesis may contribute to delayed larval development and impaired maturation. Our study provides new insights into the environmental hazards associated with B[a]P exposure and reveals a potential mechanism underlying its developmental toxicity. Moreover, our findings highlight the critical role of collagen gene regulation during early developmental stages. These genes may serve as potential biomarkers for environmental toxicant exposure, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children undergoing critical periods of development.

Relationship between pediatric asthma and respiratory microbiota, intestinal microbiota: a narrative review

Pediatric asthma is a common chronic airway inflammatory disease that begins in childhood and its impact persists throughout all age stages of patients. With the continuous progress of detection technologies, numerous studies have firmly demonstrated that gut microbiota and respiratory microbiota are closely related to the occurrence and development of asthma, and related research is increasing day by day. This article elaborates in detail on the characteristics, composition of normal gut microbiota and lung microbiota at different ages and in different sites, as well as the connection of the gut—lung axis. Subsequently, it deeply analyzes various factors influencing microbiota colonization, including host factor, delivery mode, maternal dietary and infant feeding patterns, environmental microbial exposure and pollutants, and the use of antibiotics in early life. These factors are highly likely to play a crucial role in the onset process and disease progression of asthma. Research shows that obvious changes have occurred in the respiratory and gut microbiota of asthma patients, and these microbiomes exhibit different characteristics according to the phenotypes and endotypes of asthma. Finally, the article summarizes the microbiota—related treatment approaches for asthma carried out in recent years, including the application of probiotics, nutritional interventions, and fecal microbiota transplantation. These treatment modalities are expected to become new directions for future asthma treatment and bring new hope for solving the problem of childhood asthma.

Association of plasma concentration of trace metals with frontotemporal degeneration

ObjectiveCompare the burden of heavy metals in plasma from people with frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) and healthy controls.MethodsA cross-sectional study of 14 FTD cases and 28 healthy controls recruited from the University of Cincinnati. Plasma samples were sent to the Trace Element Analysis Core at Dartmouth College for assessment of 24 metals or metalloids via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Unconditional logistic regression models were performed with adjustments for age (centered at the median) and sex.ResultsAfter adjusting for age and sex, there was a significant positive association of FTD with the highest tertile of Manganese (ORadjusted = 11.1, 95% CI: 1.57–132) and Chromium (ORadjusted = 9.86, 95% CI: 1.24–218). There was significant inverse associations observed between FTD and the highest tertile of Barium (ORadjusted = 0.06, 95% CI: &amp;lt;0.01–0.47) and Mercury (ORadjusted = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.01–0.74), with a significant inverse trend (ptrend = 0.03).ConclusionSignificant associations between plasma concentration of several trace metals and FTD. The significantly elevated levels of Manganese and Chromium may suggest a role of environmental exposure in the pathogenesis of FTD. However, larger, well-designed prospective studies, along with complementary experimental work, are needed to better elucidate this relationship.

Bio-monitoring of endocrine disrupting chemicals in human serum: insights from a study in Central India

ABSTRACT In recent years, the health impacts of phthalates and bisphenol-A (BPA) have garnered significant research attention due to their widespread use in consumer products and identification as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Human exposure occurs through various pathways, including dietary intake, inhalation of dust, and dermal contact. This study initially aimed to analyze serum samples from 200 participants in Jabalpur city (Central India); however, samples from 173 individuals were ultimately analyzed to assess the occurrence, concentration patterns, and gender-related differences of six phthalates and BPA. Serum samples were collected, processed, and analyzed for EDC content using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The findings highlighted differences in detection frequencies among genders and residential areas, shaped by environmental exposure variability, lifestyle variations, and gender-specific metabolic disparities. All the targeted analytes were detected with diethyl phthalate (DEP) having the highest mean concentration of 13.74 ± 6.2 ng/ml, followed by di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) with mean value of 13.69 ± 99.82 ng/ml in human serum. Studies have linked DEP exposure endocrine disruption and reproductive abnormalities. Subsequent research endeavors should prioritize elucidating EDC sources, pathways, and health impacts, facilitating evidence-based policies to mitigate risks and ensure a healthier future.

Inhalation of Formalin Vapors during Gestation: Effects on Placental Integrity and Fetal Viability in Rats

Formalin, a commonly used preservative and disinfectant, presents significant risks to biological systems, particularly through inhalation exposure. This study aimed to investigate the teratogenic effects of prenatal exposure to formalin vapors on fetal development in Sprague-Dawley rats. Eighteen pregnant rats were divided into three groups: Group I: a control group (no exposure), Group II: a 3-hour exposure group, and Group III: a 6-hour exposure group, Group II and Group III received daily exposure to 10% formalin vapor throughout gestation. The results demonstrated notable developmental impairments in the fetuses and placentas of the exposed groups, including placental discoloration, subcutaneous hematomas, and skin abnormalities in the fetuses. Furthermore, multiple stillborn and poorly developed fetuses were observed, and some placentas were underdeveloped, with no visible fetus associated. These findings highlight the potential teratogenic risks of formalin inhalation during pregnancy, underscoring the need for reassessment of occupational and environmental exposure standards to safeguard maternal and fetal health.

Case Study of Cancer Incidence in Relation to Diverse Environmental Exposure to PCDD/Fs in the Silesia Province, Poland

A causal analysis was conducted in order to examine the relationship between residents’ inhalation exposure to PCDDs/PCBs and the incidence of cancer. A significant association was identified between chronic inhalation exposure to 2,3,7,8-TCDD and the overall incidence of malignant neoplasms in the study area. This association was stronger among men (p = 0.0020) than among women (p = 0.0027). A significantly higher overall incidence of malignant neoplasms was observed among the inhabitants of villages (CY, GN) exposed to higher levels of PCDD/F mixture in comparison with the reference village (p &lt; 0.001). The present study observed the phenomenon in both male (p = 0.008) and female (p = 0.013). Moreover, a considerably elevated incidence of morbidity was observed in the male population of the CY village (p = 0.034) in comparison with the female population, where atmospheric air pollution with PCDD/Fs has been recorded at its most elevated levels. A higher frequency of cancers was also observed among the inhabitants of the villages GN and CY compared to the inhabitants of the reference village. The observed differences were consistent in cancers of the digestive system (p &lt; 0.001), respiratory system and thoracic organs (p &lt; 0.001), skin (p = 0.023), urinary system (p &lt; 0.001), lymphatic and hematopoietic system (p = 0.032), as well as cancers occurring in women (p = 0.041).