Related Experiment Videos
Elevated blood selenium levels in the Brazilian Amazon.
Mélanie Lemire1, Donna Mergler, Myriam Fillion
1Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire sur la biologie, la santé, la société et l'environnement (CINBIOSE), Université du Québec à Montréal, C.P. 8888, Succ. Centre-Ville, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3C 3P8. lemire.melanie@courrier.uqam.ca
The Science of the Total Environment
|November 18, 2005
Summary
Selenium (Se) may influence mercury (Hg) distribution and neurotoxicity in the Brazilian Amazon. Higher blood Se was linked to higher blood Hg, particularly with consumption of certain fish and coconut. Further research is needed on Se
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Nutritional Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Fish consumption is vital in the Brazilian Amazon but poses mercury (Hg) exposure risks.
- Selenium (Se) is an essential element that may mitigate Hg toxicity.
- Understanding Se-Hg interactions is crucial for public health in Hg-contaminated regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate whole blood Se (B-Se) and Hg (B-Hg) levels.
- Characterize B-Se variations with socio-demographic and dietary factors.
- Examine the relationship between B-Se and B-Hg.
Main Methods:
- Study conducted in six riparian communities in the Tapajós River Basin, Amazon.
- 236 participants underwent whole blood Se and Hg analysis.
- Data collected via questionnaires on socio-demographics, habits, and diet (fish, fruit).
Main Results:
- Blood Se levels were generally within the upper normal range; no deficiency observed.
- B-Se varied by community and was higher in alcohol drinkers and farmers.
- A significant positive correlation between B-Se and B-Hg was found, independent of total fish intake.
Conclusions:
- Se may play a protective role against Hg toxicity in this high-exposure population.
- Intercommunity B-Se variations may relate to soil Se and land use.
- Further research is needed on Se sources, ecosystem transfer, and health impacts in the region.