Particulate matter (PM10, PM0,5) and early biological effects in children living in Lecce (Italy) by buccal micronucleus cytome assay

摘要

Background Air pollution is one of the most important worldwide health problem. Several studies have found an association between exposure to particulate matter and the incidence of chronic diseases. The aim of the PJS study (Progetto Jonico Salentino) is to define the exposure levels to atmospheric pollutants of the population living in a macro-area which included in the province of Lecce, Brindisi and Taranto by extending the cohort of 240 6-8 years-old schoolchildren living in Lecce, and enrolled in the MAPEC_LIFE study (Monitoring Air Pollution Effects on Children for Supporting Public Health Policy). The authors present results of micronucleus cytome assay performed in oral mucosa cells of subjects related to lifestyle and factors associated with exposure to indoor/outdoor including the level of PM10 and PM0,5, context family residential, physical activity and weight status. Methods Recruitment is done on a voluntary basis after receiving from children's parents the signed consent form. Parents who accepted to participate at the study were administered, in two seasons (winter and spring) a questionnaire which included the exclusion criteria and some information regarding personal, anthropometric and health status as well as exposure factors related to the home context. Results on children eligible for the study were carried out sampling exfoliated buccal cells from oral mucosa using a soft-bristled toothbrush, for the tests of the MN. At the same time, in addition to biological sampling, it was conducted air monitoring by high-volume sampler "Air Flow PM10-HVS" (AMS®Analitica) near the schools attempted by the enrolled children. It was conduced a PM collection for 72h, with membrane replacement every 24h, in each site and in each season. Results 426 samples collected from 106 (49.8%) males and 107 (50.2%) females were tested. 43% (44.6% in the first season and 41.3% in the second) of the samples tested positive (presence of at least one MN) with an average frequency of MN equal to 0.28 (0.32+0,44 in the first season, 0.24±0.32 in the second) MN/1000 differentiated cells. Environmental sampling showed a higher concentration of PM10 and PM0.5 in the first season than the second. Conclusions The results concerning the frequency of MN seem in line with low particulate levels recorded and related to certain factors regarding family environment and lifestyles. These data will be integrated with those of other areas involved in PJS study.