HBM4EU chromates study - Reflection and lessons learnt from designing and undertaking a collaborative European biomonitoring study on occupational exposure to hexavalent chromium
Year: 2021
Type: article
Abstract: The EU human biomonitoring initiative, HBM4EU, aims to co-ordinate and advance human biomonitoring (HBM) across Europe. As part of HBM4EU, we presented a protocol for a multicentre study to characterize occupational exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) in nine European countries (HBM4EU chromates study). This study intended to collect data on current occupational exposure and to test new indicators for chromium (Cr) biomonitoring (Cr(VI) in exhaled breath condensate and Cr in red blood cells), in addition to traditional urinary total Cr analyses. Also, data from occupational hygiene samples and biomarkers of early biological effects, including genetic and epigenetic effects, was obtained, complementing the biomonitoring information. Data collection and analysis was completed, with the project findings being made separately available. As HBM4EU prepares to embark on further European wide biomonitoring studies, we considered it important to reflect on the experiences gained through our harmonised approach. Several practical aspects are highlighted for improvement in future studies, e.g., more thorough/earlier training on the implementation of standard operating procedures for field researchers, training on the use of the data entry template, as well as improved company communications. The HBM4EU chromates study team considered that the study had successfully demonstrated the feasibility of conducting a harmonised multicentre investigation able to achieve the research aims and objectives. This was largely attributable to the engaged multidisciplinary network, committed to deliver clearly understood goals. Such networks take time and investment to develop, but are priceless in terms of their ability to deliver and facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Authors: Karen S. Galea, Simo P. Porras, Susana Viegas, Beatrice Bocca, Radia Bousoumah, Radu Corneliu Duca, Lode Godderis, Ivo Iavicoli, Beata Janasik, Kate Jones, Lisbeth E. Knudsen, Elizabeth Leese, Veruscka Leso, Henriqueta Louro, Sophie Ndaw, Flavia Ruggieri, Ovnair Sepai, Paul T.J. Scheepers, Maria J. Silva, Wojciech Wasowicz, Tiina Santonen
Institutions: Institute of Occupational Medicine, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Universidade Politécnica de Lisboa, Centro de Investigação em Saúde e Tecnologia, Comprehensive Health Research Centre, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité, Laboratoire National de Santé, KU Leuven, University of Naples Federico II, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Health and Safety Executive, University of Copenhagen, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Public Health England, Radboud University Nijmegen, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,440
Funder: European Commission
OpenAlex ID: W3137329024