Human biomonitoring system in the Czech Republic

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Biomonitoring
• Toxicology

Background:

• Human biomonitoring (HBM) is crucial for the Czech Republic's Environmental Health Monitoring System since 1994.
• HBM tracks internal dose biomarkers (heavy metals, PCBs) and exposure to genotoxic factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically monitor environmental exposure and health risks in adults, children, and nursing mothers.
• To analyze trends in heavy metal, PCB, pesticide levels, and cytogenetic damage.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of blood, urine, and breast milk samples.
• Biomarker analysis for heavy metals (lead, selenium) and persistent organic pollutants (PCBs, chlorinated pesticides).
• Cytogenetic analysis of peripheral lymphocytes for aberrant cells.

Main Results:

• Declining blood lead levels in adults (reference value 80 mg/l).
• Increasing blood selenium levels in adults, but not children.
• Long-term downward trend for PCBs and pesticides in breast milk, yet higher than neighboring countries.
• A downward trend in aberrant cells, with a recent unexplained increase.

Conclusions:

• HBM data reveals mixed trends in environmental exposure and health risks.
• Persistent elevated levels of certain contaminants and recent cytogenetic changes warrant further investigation.
• Continued HBM activities are essential for risk reduction and demonstrating exposure trends.