Protecting the traditional food of native peoples was the focus of a new study and a news story this week featuring Society of Toxicology (SOT) members.
SOT Member Research
Among Canada’s First Nations, there is concern about the impact of environmental pollution on health—both directly and through the traditional food sources of the First Nations. This led to a 10–year study on the diets and health of First Nations people living on reservations, with interim reports as data becomes available. In the newest update, which focused on reservations in Ontario, Laurie Chan and colleagues found that while First Nations dietary habits do not meet Health Canada guidelines, there is not serious chemical contamination in the traditional foods or drinking water of the people. (Photo right: Eabametoong, also known as Fort Hope, an Ojibway First Nation in Kenora District, Ontario, Canada. Credit: ra1000/Flickr)
The effects of long–term exposure to low concentrations of pharmaceuticals and personal care products mixtures found in the environment on nontarget organisms was identified as a top concern of environmental scientists, according to a recent survey published in Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management. Conducted by Bryan W. Brooks and colleagues, the study aimed to identify what research was needed where to determine health effects around the world from the discharge of pharmaceuticals and personal care products into the environment.
SOT Members in the News
New tests of Columbia River fish found elevated levels of PCBs. Discussing the limitations of state–issued fish advisories with The Oregonian, David Farrer said, “We have to acknowledge this is definitely an environmental justice issue. It's better to eat something and survive than to not eat at all.” With many local tribes and communities relying on fish for both economic and cultural purposes, everyone interviewed by The Oregonian acknowledged that much work still is needed to keep Oregon’s waters and fish safe and healthy.
A team of researchers from Duke University, alongside Tara Sabo-Attwood, have found that when released into a wetland ecosystem, single–walled carbon nanotubes often sank to the bottom of the water and accumulated with other sediments. As reported by Chemistry World, the team did not observe accumulation of the nanotubes in the aquatic life living in or feeding off the sediment.
Science and Public Health News
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