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Potential Health Risk to Brazilian Infants by Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers Exposure via Breast Milk Intake

Marília Cristina Oliveira Souza1, Paula Pícoli Devóz1, João Paulo Bianchi Ximenez1

  • 1Analytical and System Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Avenida do Cafe s/no, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, Brazil.

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|September 9, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are found in Brazilian breast milk, with levels linked to maternal education and income. Infant exposure via breast milk is a concern, necessitating further research on developmental impacts.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Toxicology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are persistent flame retardants with known health risks, including endocrine disruption and neurotoxicity.
  • Infant exposure to PBDEs begins prenatally and continues through breastfeeding, posing a significant public health concern.
  • Factors influencing PBDE exposure in infants via breast milk are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess PBDE levels in Brazilian breast milk from 200 lactating women.
  • To evaluate the risk of infant exposure through Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) calculations.
  • To identify socio-demographic factors associated with PBDE levels in breast milk.

Main Methods:

  • Breast milk samples were collected from 200 lactating women in Brazil.
  • PBDE congeners were quantified using established analytical methods.
  • Infant exposure was estimated using EDI calculations, with statistical analysis to identify associated factors.

Main Results:

  • PBDEs were detected in all breast milk samples, with a geometric mean of 2.33 ng/g wet weight.
  • 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) had a 100% detection rate.
  • Maternal education, salary, race, and location of residence were associated with higher PBDE levels (p < 0.05).
  • Higher EDI for BDE-47 and total PBDEs was observed in Belo Horizonte compared to Viçosa.

Conclusions:

  • PBDEs are prevalent in Brazilian breast milk, indicating widespread exposure.
  • Socio-demographic factors significantly influence maternal PBDE body burden.
  • Infant exposure levels warrant continued monitoring and research into potential impacts on fetal growth and neurodevelopment.

Keywords:
Brazilian breast milkinfant exposurelactating womenpolybrominated diphenyl etherrisk assessment

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