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Human tissue burdens of halogenated aromatic chemicals in Michigan
Abstract:
A cross section of the population of Michigan was studied in 1978 to evaluate residual burdens of polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), a flame-retardant chemical that had contaminated the state's food supply five years earlier. Levels of PBB were measured in serum specimens in 1,681 people and in adipose samples in 844. Ninety-seven percent of the adipose samples had detectable PBB concentrations. Levels of PBB were highest in that part of the state where meat and dairy products had been most contaminated and were lowest in the upper peninsula, farthest from the source. Levels for the rest of the state were in between. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and 2,2'-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1, 1-dichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE), a dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) residue, were also measured, and variations of PBB, PCB, and p,p'-DDE levels with age and sex were investigated.
Insights
In 1978, a study found widespread polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) in Michigan residents, five years after food contamination. PBB levels correlated geographically with contamination sources, indicating significant population exposure.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- A significant flame-retardant chemical, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), contaminated Michigan's food supply in 1973.
- Understanding the residual burden of PBBs in the population is crucial for assessing long-term health impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the residual levels of polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) in a cross-section of the Michigan population.
- To investigate the geographical distribution of PBBs in relation to the contamination source.
- To examine variations in PBB, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), and p,p'-DDE levels concerning age and sex.
Main Methods:
- Serum and adipose tissue samples were collected from 1,681 and 844 individuals, respectively, in 1978.
- PBB concentrations were measured in biological samples.
- Levels of PCB and p,p'-DDE (a DDT residue) were also quantified.
Main Results:
- Ninety-seven percent of adipose samples showed detectable PBB concentrations, indicating widespread exposure.
- PBB levels were highest in regions with the most contaminated meat and dairy products.
- Lower PBB levels were observed in the upper peninsula, farthest from the contamination source.
Conclusions:
- The study confirmed extensive and persistent PBB contamination in the Michigan population five years post-incident.
- Geographical distribution of PBBs directly reflected the contamination pattern of the food supply.
- Further investigation into age and sex variations of PBB, PCB, and p,p'-DDE was conducted.