Environmental Health Insights最新文献

In Bangladesh, ensuring food safety from various hazardous contaminants, including heavy metals in different food items, has become a significant policy concern. This systematic review aimed to summarize the heavy metal contamination of locally produced fruits in Bangladesh and estimate the subsequent health risks of heavy metals upon consumption of reported fruits. A total of 1458 articles were retrieved from PubMed, Google Scholar, and manual Google searching, of which 10 were included in the current review. Health risks associated with the intake of these metals were evaluated in terms of estimated daily intake and carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic risks by target cancer risk, target hazard quotient, and hazard index. The heavy metal concentrations (mg/kg of fresh edible weight) in the fruits were As (ND-1.3), Cd (ND-0.64), Pb (ND-2.4), Cr (ND-2.5), Mn (ND-570), Ni (ND-9.0), Cu (0.5-32), Zn (0.24-134), and Hg (ND-0.006). The concentration of different heavy metals in various fruits particularly in the banana, mango, jackfruit, guava, litchi, blackberry, lemon, and tamarind fruit, were higher than the maximum acceptable concentration. All of the metals were consumed daily in amounts below the maximum tolerated daily intake for all fruits. The results showed that, except for As, all metals' target hazard quotients were below the safety level. The target hazard quotient for strawberry, guava, mango, pineapple, banana, and papaya surpassed the safety level. On the other hand, the target cancer risk levels of As, Cd, Cr, and Ni were higher than the acceptable levels for most fruit items, suggesting that long-term exposure to these toxic metals may raise the risk of developing various malignancies, including stomach and lung cancer. A more integrated strategy to reduce the contamination burden of heavy metals in fruits is important to conserve the health of the population.

Background: Vegetables and fruits are vital components of a healthy diet; however, consuming unclean, uncooked, or improperly prepared products can lead to parasitic infections. Contamination often occurs during both the pre-harvest and post-harvest phases. Thus, the aim of this study is to provide evidence-based scientific information about the level of parasitic contamination and risk factors in Ethiopian fruits and vegetables sold in local markets.

Methods: A random effects model was selected for analysis. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity using the I ² test. Publication bias was evaluated using the funnel plot, Begg's, and Egger's tests.

Results: A total of 3697 samples from 11 studies were included. The pooled prevalence of parasitic contamination was 43.99% (1642/3697) with (95% CI: 38.04-49.95). The highest prevalence was recorded from helminths (26.42%), followed by protozoan infections (17.57%). The most predominant parasites were Entamoeba spp. (6.40%), Ascaris spp. (6.28%), Giardia spp. (5.98%), and Strongylida (4.59%). Contamination rate of fruits alone was 7.02%, while that of vegetables was 36.97%. Additionally, cabbage (8.14%), lettuce (6.46%), tomato (6.12%), carrot (5.71%), and green pepper (5.12%) were the most contaminated vegetables. Factors such as the vegetable produce (aOR = 2.26; 95% CI: 0.86-3.65) and not washed prior to display (aOR = 3.36; 95% CI: 2.00-4.73) were factors associated significantly with parasitic contamination of fruits and vegetables.

Conclusion: The current finding revealed a significant level of parasitic contamination in fruits and vegetables. As a result, food and drug regulatory bodies, the agricultural sector, and public health organizations need to educate vendors, farmers, and consumers about safe methods for growing, transporting, handling, and eating these products, while also ensuring the establishment of safe market environments.

Registration: The review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with the registration number "CRD42024585961."

Occupational exposure to smoke and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) poses significant health risks, especially for commercial fish smokers who are regularly exposed to high levels of smoke and particulate matter. This study aimed to evaluate the exposure levels and assess the health risks associated with PAHs, phenols, phthalates, and substituted benzenes among 155 fish smokers in Ghana. A total of 155 urine samples from fish smokers across selected coastal regions in Ghana were collected and analyzed. The sample preparation was conducted using the Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuEChERs) method, as standardized by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (A.O.A.C.). Analysis was performed utilizing the Shimadzu GC-MS QP 2020. The type of firewood used by fish smokers significantly influenced the levels of PAHs detected in the urine samples. Hardwoods such as odum, acacia, and cocoa, with their dense structures and combustion characteristics, were found to produce higher levels of PAHs. In contrast, softer woods like sugar cane and palm kernel released lower PAH levels during combustion. The findings indicate that fish smokers utilizing various wood types and unfiltered ovens, specifically the "Chorkor Oven," are exposed to elevated levels of PAHs, phenols, phthalates, and substituted benzenes through inhalation during work hours. Cancer risk assessments revealed risk levels for PAHs ranging from 6.00E-04 to 4.14E-01, phenols from 0.00E+00 to 3.70E-01, substituted benzenes from 9.04E-08 to 1.99E-01, and phthalates from 3E-04 to 2.09E+04. These values exceed the limits by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.E.P.A.) of 10E-06. Furthermore, the estimated non-cancer hazard quotient values for hydrocarbons ranged from 8.42E+00 to 1.99E+01, all exceeding the threshold of 1, as outlined by both the U.S.E.P.A. and the World Health Organization (WHO), indicating substantial potential health risks for commercial fish smokers.

The growing use of artificial turf in place of natural turf in residential, recreational and commercial settings has raised concerns regarding its potential impact on human health. A systematic review of databases revealed 5673 articles of which, 30 were deemed eligible. Those performing total concentration analyses, bioaccessibility analyses or human health risk assessments (HHRAs) of artificial turf fibres or crumb rubber infill were of interest. Health hazards and risks were explored in relation to three groups of chemicals of concern: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), heavy metals and other rubber additives. Twenty-five studies performed total concentration analyses on samples of artificial turf infill and/or turf fibres. Of these studies, median reported concentrations of eight PAHs, cadmium, mercury and zinc exceeded the European limits used. Eight studies performed bioaccessibility assays using synthetic biofluids and simulated organ systems. PAHs were not found to be bioaccessible except for benzo[a]pyrene in gastric fluid; heavy metals were bioaccessible except arsenic, and rubber additives were mostly bioaccessible except for three plasticisers: diisobutyl phthalate, benzyl butyl phthalate and dibutyl phthalate. Fourteen studies performed HHRAs to determine non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk. Cancer risks were identified for ingestion exposure to PAH in children with pica and heavy metal exposure via dermal, inhalation and ingestion pathways. Non-carcinogenic risks were identified for the ingestion of cobalt in a child spectator and the ingestion of arsenic, cobalt, thallium and zinc. Potentially hazardous concentrations of chemicals were found across both artificial turf infill and artificial turf fibre samples; bioaccessibility of these chemicals varied. Definitive conclusions were unable to be derived on the human health risks posed to users of artificial turf under real-world exposure scenarios. Future studies are recommended to explore the risks associated with the potential synergistic toxicities of chemical mixtures found in artificial turf.

This study examines how EC, FF use, RC, POP growth, trade, GDP, and CO₂ emissions are interrelated in China. It aims to clarify how these factors together impact environmental pollution and economic sustainability. The motivation stems from China's dual challenge of sustaining economic growth while mitigating environmental degradation, particularly CO₂ emissions. Understanding the intricate relationships among these variables is critical for shaping adequate energy and environmental policies in the context of China's growing role as a global economic power. The empirical methodology utilizes time-series data from 2000 to 2023 and applies econometric techniques, including Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL). These methods allow for exploring both long-term and short-term dynamics among the variables and identifying causal relationships. The key findings reveal a significant long-term relationship between EC, FF use, GDP, and CO₂ emissions, with RC increasingly crucial in mitigating carbon emissions. In the short term, there is bidirectional causality between energy utilization and economic growth, indicating mutual feedback between energy demand and economic development. POP growth and trade activities also significantly influence energy utilization patterns and emissions. The policy implications are profound: China must prioritize promoting RC, enhancing energy efficiency, and strengthening environmental regulations to decouple economic growth from environmental degradation. Policies should also integrate sustainable urban planning and international cooperation to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. These strategies ensure China can meet its economic goals without compromising environmental sustainability.

Background: Despite its significant application, DDT and its metabolites pose a potential threat to the environment. Therefore, data on environmental and health concerns must thus be investigated.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the environmental and human health risks posed by DDT and its metabolites in Ethiopian surface waters.

Methods: The total amount of DDT and its metabolites consumed as a sum (∑DDT) is calculated by considering their equivalent toxicity. To calculate the human risk from drinking contaminated water, the maximum concentrations in all of Ethiopia's surface waterways were pooled. The average concentration values were added to calculate the human risk from consuming fish contaminated with ∑DDT. Similarly, ∑DDT residues in water can be used to predict the potential environmental risk.

Results: A higher level of ∑DDT in surface water was detected in Gilgel Gibe I hydroelectric dam reservoir and its tributaries with an average concentration of 640 ng/l. There is no health risk associated with drinking these surface waters because the concentrations of ∑DDT were below the WHO's recommended level. In fish samples, B. intermedius accumulated a higher level of ∑DDT (21.47 ng/g ww). With the exception of local infants, ∑DDT does not pose a non-carcinogenic risk to any age group. However, consuming fish contaminated with ∑DDT poses an unacceptable risk of cancer to all age categories. The risk posed by ∑DDT on aquatic species is highly likely. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) value indicates that fish tissue does not absorb ∑DDT directly from the water.

Conclusion: The prevalence of ∑DDT would link to both historical pollution and their current application in vector control. Ecosystems are frequently exposed to chemical mixes later in life; thus, rather than focusing on the ideal case of exposure to a single toxin, future studies can examine the mixture toxicity of numerous organic contaminants.

Background: Trachoma is the leading infectious cause of blindness worldwide, particularly impacting the poorest nations, including Ethiopia.

Objective: To assess knowledge, practice, and associated factors of trachoma transmission and prevention among primary school students in Addis Zemen town, South Gondar, Northwest Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 407 randomly selected primary school students (grades 5-8), aged 10 to 24 years. Data collection included face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires and an observation checklist. Epi-data version 4.2.0.0 and SPSS version 20 were used to enter and analyze the collected data, respectively. The data were analyzed using the descriptive statistical method and using bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models. Variables with a P-value <.05 with a 95% CI were considered to have statistical significance.

Result: The study has a response rate of 98.25%, with a total of 400 respondents. 74.00% of the respondents knew about trachoma transmission and prevention, and 71.50% practiced preventive measures, such as face washing. Respondents in Grades 7 and 8, aged 12 to 24 years (AOR: 2.67, 95% CI: 1.93, 4.64), information about trachoma (AOR: 2.30, 95% CI: 1.56, 4.21), and urban residence (AOR: 3.42, 95% CI: 2.56, 5.23) were determinants of knowledge regarding trachoma transmission and prevention. Meanwhile, the mother's occupation (government employee) (AOR: 2.50, 95% CI: 1.83, 6.91) and overall knowledge about trachoma (AOR: 4.87, 95% CI: 2.95, 8.53) were significant predictors of the practice of trachoma transmission prevention.

Conclusion: While the level of knowledge and practice regarding trachoma transmission and prevention was relatively high, 26.00% of respondents still lacked adequate knowledge, and 28.50% did not practice prevention measures. To reduce the spread of trachoma and enhance public health outcomes, targeted interventions focusing on education about transmission and prevention strategies such as promoting face washing and proper sanitation should be prioritized in this area.

The Middle East is facing serious climate change challenges, rendering it as one of the most affected regions worldwide. This paper aimed to investigate the outcomes of climate change in the Middle East. In 2024, a qualitative study was conducted employing a methodology that integrated systematic review for data collection and thematic analysis for data analysis. Such integration of the approaches provided valuable insights into the findings within the literature in a comprehensive and categorized format. PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched for relevant studies published between 2000 and 2024. The quality of these studies was assessed using the AACODS (Accuracy, Coverage, Objectivity, Date, Significance) checklist. The data extracted from the included studies underwent a thematic analysis utilizing Braun and Clarke's methodology. After completing the screening process, a total of 93 papers were deemed suitable for inclusion in the study. The quality assessment of these selected studies demonstrated a notably high standard, particularly in terms of authority, accuracy, coverage, objectivity, and significance. Moreover, minimal levels of bias were observed within the included studies. Subsequent thematic analysis of the findings from the systematic review identified 6 overarching themes: "Human Health Outcomes," "Animal Health Outcomes," "Plant Health Outcomes," "Ecological Outcomes," "Economic Outcomes," and "Political Outcomes." The study revealed ecological outcomes as the most prevalent consequences of climate change in the Middle East, including alterations in habitat distribution, temperature increase, water scarcity, and more. The outcomes seemed to be interconnected, exacerbating each other. Yemen and Syria had faced severe consequences, leading to political unrest and humanitarian crises in which Yemen ranking among the most water-stressed nations globally, while Syria contending with millions of displaced individuals living in dire conditions.

This article empirically analyzes the influence of green finance (GF) on ocean health. Employing 10 indicators and a composite Ocean Health Index (OHI) to measure the efficiency and sustainability of ocean economies, the study spans 9 years across 35 countries. Multiple econometric methodologies, including Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS), Panel-Corrected Standard Errors (PCSE), and the 2-step Generalized Method of Moments (GMM), demonstrate a substantial negative association between GF and ocean health. An extensive analysis of GF's relationship to the Ocean Health Index (OHI) components indicates that GF negatively impacts each of the 6 aspects of OHI. In the long run, however, when a Pooled Mean Group Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PMG-ARDL) model is used to assess the short- and long-term impacts, the results show a substantial positive association between GF and the ocean health. JEL code: J4; C12.

The role healthcare systems can play in surmounting global challenges like climatic change and resource scarcity is large, considering the major social and environmental impact. The research investigates the role of organizational behavior in influencing the adoption of sustainability initiatives in Greek healthcare organizations in regard to climate change. The research surveys 379 healthcare professionals from the public and private sectors with regard to organizational attitudes toward climate change, the adoption of sustainable practices, and individual environmental perspectives. Results underline that health care administration is still cut off from environmental considerations, with limited employee involvement in such initiatives of sustainability. The major barriers were poor communication, lack of education, and inadequate awareness across institutions. The study also emphasized that healthcare organizations need to align their values with environmental strategy so they can work in unison toward seeking sustainability. These would be stimulating initiatives for more leadership and active staff who become involved in making meaningful contributions toward global sustainability from the healthcare sector.