Biomonitoring of Exposure to Great Lakes Contaminants in New York State Burmese Refugees: Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury

摘要

The New York State Department of Health conducted a biomonitoring study to assess exposure to Great Lakes contaminants among susceptible populations living in western New York State. In 2013, Burmese refugee participants (n=206) aged 18 and older living in Buffalo, NY who ate fish caught from the Great Lakes Basin provided blood samples and completed a detailed questionnaire. This analysis focuses on assessing blood cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg) concentrations among these participants and their association with local fish consumption. The geometric mean for Cd, Pb, and Hg were: 0.72 ug/L (95% CI, 0.66-0.79), 3.13 ug/dL (2.92-3.34), and 3.66 ug/L (3.36-3.98), respectively. The geometric mean for all three metals was at least twice as high as the general adult US population [Cd: 0.30 u.g/L (95% CI, 0.28-0.32); Pb: 0.97 u.g/dL (0.92-1.0); Hg: 0.81 u.g/L (0.74-0.90)]. Multiple linear regression was used to identify important predictors related to blood Hg, Cd, and Pb concentrations. Potential predictors included demographics, lifestyle factors, and fish consumption parameters. Hg concentrations were elevated 1.4 (1.1-1.9) times in participants who reported consuming fish/shellfish within the past three days compared to those who reported no consumption in the past week. Ethnic/tribal affiliation (Burman, Karenni, Karen and "Other") was associated with blood Hg concentrations. The Karenni, who tended to consume less fish and fish paste, had significantly lower blood Hg levels. Cd and Pb levels were associated with frequent fish paste consumption and current smoking. In conclusion, consumption of locally caught fish and fish paste may result in an increase in blood levels of Cd, Pb, and Hg. Additionally, survey results identified a low awareness of local fish consumption advisories indicating an ongoing need to provide culturally sensitive fish consumption outreach and education targeted to this population.