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Half-life of polybrominated biphenyl in human sera
D H Rosen1, W D Flanders, A Friede
1Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341-3724, USA.
Abstract:
Polybrominated biphenyl (PBB), a flame-retardant material, was introduced into the food chain in Michigan in 1973 due to a manufacturing and distribution mistake. Following public concern about the long-term health effects of PBB in humans, a cohort of PBB-exposed Michigan residents was assembled in 1975. We initiated this study to determine the half-life of PBB in human sera and to understand how continued body burden relates to the possible adverse health consequences of PBB exposure. To determine the half-life, eligible persons were selected from the cohort if they had at least two PBB measurements 1 year apart and had an initial level > or = 20 pbb. There were 163 persons who met the criteria with a median PBB level of 45.5 ppb. The estimated half-life is 10.8 years (95% CI, 9.2-14.7 years). The body burden of PBB in exposed persons will decrease only gradually over time. For persons with an initial level of 45.5 ppb of PBB, it will take more than 60 years for their PBB levels to fall below the current level of detection of 1 ppb.
Insights
Polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) exposure has a long half-life in humans, estimated at 10.8 years. This persistent body burden means PBB levels decrease very slowly over decades, impacting long-term health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Human Health Risk Assessment
Background:
- Polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) are flame-retardant chemicals that entered the Michigan food chain in 1973 due to an accidental release.
- Public concern over potential long-term health effects led to the establishment of a PBB-exposed human cohort in 1975.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the biological half-life of PBB in human serum.
- To assess the relationship between persistent PBB body burden and potential adverse health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of serum samples from 163 PBB-exposed Michigan residents with initial PBB levels >= 20 ppb.
- Selection criteria included at least two PBB measurements separated by a minimum of 1 year.
Main Results:
- The estimated half-life of PBB in human sera is 10.8 years (95% CI, 9.2-14.7 years).
- A median PBB level of 45.5 ppb was observed in the study cohort.
- Individuals with an initial PBB level of 45.5 ppb may require over 60 years for their levels to fall below 1 ppb.
Conclusions:
- PBBs exhibit significant persistence in the human body, with a prolonged biological half-life.
- The gradual decrease in PBB body burden suggests a long-term exposure risk for affected populations.
- Continued monitoring and research are warranted to understand the full health implications of chronic PBB exposure.