Short-term health effects in the general population following a major train accident with acrylonitrile in Belgium

Abstract

The present study is one of the first to relate exposure levels to a chemical released during a chemical incident to short-term (self-reported) health effects. A dose-response relation was observed between the CEV concentrations and the reporting of short-term health effects in the non-smokers. Overall, the value of self-reported symptoms to assess exposure showed to be limited. The results of this study confirm that a critical view should be taken when considering self-reported health complaints and that ideally biomarkers are monitored to allow an objective assessment of exposure.

Comparing the protective effects of three sulfur compounds against acrylonitrile-induced acute toxicity in CYP2E1-induced rats

“…For instance, more than 1000 people were potentially exposed to ACN and ethylene during a fire outbreak at a chemical plant near Cologne, Germany in 2008 (Leng and Gries, 2014). On May 4, 2013, a train transporting chemicals derailed in the village of Wetteren (Belgium) and caused an ACN leakage, which resulted in the evacuation of more than 2000 residents and numerous ACN-exposed people seeking medical aid (Simons et al, 2016).…”

Developing human biomonitoring as a 21st century toolbox within the European exposure science strategy 2020–2030

“…HBM data can be used to support risk communication and expectation management in the aftermath of a chemical incident where 'worried well' individuals may not be identifiable, which may enable providing reassurance and may support resilience. Aftercare and support to recover both mentally and physically can be offered to individuals who initially did not have health complaints (Simons et al 2016), including first responders that need appropriate follow-up (Van Nieuwenhuyse et al 2014). The use of HBM during and after chemical incidents is supported by a guidance document on a national level (Eggens et al 2012;.…”

Hepatocellular and Immuno-toxicopathological Effects of Acrylonitrile in Albino Male Mice

“…Harmful effects of chemical pollutants and their metabolites are due to their ability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to ingestion, inhalation or absorption chemicals and their products (1) Acrylonitrile (AN) is an important industrial hazard chemical used extensively in the manufacture of synthetic fibers, resins, plastics, elastomers, and rubber for a variety of consumer goods, such as textiles, drinking cups, automotive parts, and appliances (2) . It is also used as a monomer for acrylic and modacrylic fibers, in plastics, surface coatings as a chemical intermediate, in organic synthesis, in home furnishings, in nitrile rubbers, and as a modifier for natural polymers and pesticides (3) .…”

“…Human may be exposed to the AN around factories where it is made for used or near chemical waste sites which it has been improperly stored or disposed, two most likely exposure pathways are breathing acrylonitrile that has evaporated in to air or drinking water that has been contaminated due to AN is highly soluble and stable in water (3) .…”