Non-invasive matrices in human biomonitoring: a review
Marta Esteban1, Argelia Castaño
1Environmental Toxicology, National Centre of Environmental Health (CNSA), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain.
Environment International
|October 28, 2008
Summary
Human biomonitoring tracks chemical pollutants using various samples. Non-invasive methods like saliva and urine offer alternatives to blood, improving exposure assessment and public health strategies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Human exposure to environmental pollutants from anthropogenic activities can lead to adverse health effects.
- Human biomonitoring is crucial for assessing exposure and informing control measures.
- Traditional biomonitoring often relies on invasive blood samples, prompting the need for alternative matrices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review studies measuring environmental pollutants in non-invasive matrices.
- To discuss analytical techniques used for pollutant detection in these matrices.
- To explore the potential of non-invasive biomonitoring for public health.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature on human biomonitoring studies.
- Analysis of data on pollutant levels in various non-invasive matrices (saliva, urine, hair, etc.).
- Evaluation of analytical techniques, including mass spectrometry and chromatography.
Main Results:
- Various pollutants like heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Hg) and organic compounds (PCBs, PAHs, PBDEs) have been detected in non-invasive matrices.
- Established correlations between blood and non-invasive matrices are essential for accurate body burden assessment.
- Modern analytical techniques enable sensitive detection of pollutants in small sample volumes.
Conclusions:
- Non-invasive matrices provide valuable alternatives for human biomonitoring.
- Further research is needed to validate non-invasive methods and establish robust correlations with blood levels.
- Advancements in analytical techniques and biomarker development will enhance non-invasive biomonitoring capabilities for environmental health surveillance.
