A combined ecological and epidemiologic investigation of metal exposures amongst Indigenous peoples near the Marlin Mine in Western Guatemala

Abstract

In August 2009 a combined epidemiological and ecological pilot study was conducted to investigate allegations of human rights abuses in the form of exposures to toxic metals experienced by mine workers and Indigenous Mam Mayan near the Marlin Mine in Guatemala. In the human study there were no differences in blood and urine metals when comparing five mine workers with eighteen non-mine workers, and there were no discernible relationships between metals exposures and self-reported health measures in any study group. On the other hand, individuals residing closest to the mine had significantly higher levels of certain metals (urinary mercury, copper, arsenic, zinc) when compared to those living further away. Levels of blood aluminum, manganese, and cobalt were elevated in comparison to established normal ranges in many individuals; however, there was no apparent relationship to proximity to the mine or occupation, and thus are of unclear significance. In the ecological study, several metals (aluminum, manganese, cobalt) were found significantly elevated in the river water and sediment sites directly below the mine when compared to sites elsewhere. When the results of the human and ecological results are combined, they suggest that exposures to certain metals may be elevated in sites near the mine but it is not clear if the current magnitude of these elevations poses a significant threat to health. The authors conclude that more robust studies are needed while parallel efforts to minimize the ecological and human impacts of mining proceed. This is critical particularly as the impact of the exposures found could be greatly magnified by expected increases in mining activity over time, synergistic toxicity between metals, and susceptibility for the young and those with pre-existing disease.

Autism spectrum disorder prevalence and proximity to industrial facilities releasing arsenic, lead or mercury

“…Previous studies have demonstrated that concentrations of particulate matter and air pollutants are higher in areas closer to industrial facilities (Burstyn et al, 2007; Gildemeister et al, 2007). Therefore, our findings may support those of studies previously reporting associations between distance from point sources, duration and frequency of exposure to air pollutants, and subsequent higher body burden of toxicants for individuals living in those areas, including those reporting higher hair, urine, and blood levels of lead, mercury, and arsenic in those living closer to point sources such as agricultural land (Molina-Villalba et al, 2014), high-traffic roads (Ahamed et al, 2010; Gulson et al, 2006; Rahbar et al, 2002; Shen et al, 1997; Stroh et al, 2009), smelters (Do et al, 2011; Hegde et al, 2010; Hwang et al, 1997; Leroyer et al, 2000; Stroh et al, 2009), and mines (Basu et al, 2010; Wickre et al, 2004). Additionally, exposures to ambient air pollutants have been shown to stimulate oxidative stress and inflammation in humans, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodevelopment and ASD.…”

Dietary predictors of urinary cadmium among pregnant women and children

“…Urine was collected in sterile cups and samples were aliquot an hour after collection, frozen at -20 degrees Fahrenheit, and then moved to -70 degree Fahrenheit freezer for storage. The UCd was determined as previously described (Basu et al 2010; Srigboh et al 2016). Briefly, 0.5 mL of sample was digested with an equal volume of concentrated nitric acid and allowed to sit overnight in a fume hood.…”

Methylmercury and elemental mercury differentially associate with blood pressure among dental professionals

“…Briefly, 800 μL of urine or 4–9 mg of hair from the two cm closest to the scalp were analyzed according to methods we have previously described (Basu et al, 2010; Goodrich et al, 2011; Paruchuri et al, 2010). In every batch of 10–15 samples, one blank, one replicate sample, and a certified reference material (hair: NIES Japan CRM #13; urine: Institut National de Sante Publique Quebec standard QMEQAS08U-01; dogfish liver: DOLT4, National Research Council Canada) were included.…”