The French human biomonitoring program: First lessons from the perinatal component and future needs

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• The French human biomonitoring (HBM) program, established in 2010, aims to assess national population exposure to environmental chemicals.
• The program comprises two surveys: a perinatal component (Elfe cohort) and a general population survey (Esteban).

Purpose of the Study:

• To present progress and highlights of the French HBM program.
• To detail the prioritization and selection of biomarkers for national exposure assessment.
• To evaluate the relevance and evolution of monitored biomarkers over time.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Delphi method to establish a consensus-based list of prioritized biomarkers in 2011.
• Analyzed biomarker levels in pregnant women (perinatal component) and the general population (Esteban survey).
• Adapted the biomarker list based on initial results and the emergence of substitute chemicals.

Main Results:

• Prioritized biomarkers proved relevant, with high detection rates in pregnant women.
• Observed decreases in certain biomarker levels, attributed to regulatory actions (e.g., atrazine) and chemical substitutions (e.g., BPA, DEHP).
• The biomarker list was updated to include substitutes for previously prioritized chemicals (e.g., Bisphenol S, F).

Conclusions:

• The Delphi method provided a rigorous and flexible approach for biomarker prioritization.
• The French HBM program effectively monitors population exposure and adapts to changing chemical landscapes.
• The program's adaptable methodology ensures continued relevance and broad stakeholder support.