State public health laboratory biomonitoring programs: implementation and early accomplishments

In 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention funded three state-based public health laboratory biomonitoring programs. These programs are the foundation for a National Biomonitoring Plan that consists of a larger network of state and local biomonitoring programs. To understand the utility of these programs and plan for the larger network, interviews were conducted with the program officials. The goal was to gather information on the challenges, successes, and lessons learned in program launch and implementation. Representatives of all programs participated. Projects range from statewide efforts to focused community investigations. Each program focuses on specific analytes including metals, pesticides, and other organics. Main accomplishments reported include development of laboratory and field capacity as well as generation of analytical results. Common challenges reported were laboratory setup and operation, sample collection and logistics, and staff recruitment. Respondents made specific recommendations for improving effectiveness of the current programs as well as ways to advance the National Biomonitoring Plan.