Wojciech Sobala

Publications of Wojciech Sobala

• Exposure to phenoxyacetic acid herbicides and predictors of exposure among spouses of farmers.

  Authors: Joanna Jurewicz, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, Danuta Ligocka

  Annals of agricultural and environmental medicine : AAEM. 03/2012; 19(1):51-6.

  The purpose of the study was to assess the environmental exposure to 2 commonly used pesticides: 2-methyl-4- chlorophenoxyacetic acid (MCPA) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) among spousesThe purpose of the study was to assess the environmental exposure to 2 commonly used pesticides: 2-methyl-4- chlorophenoxyacetic acid (MCPA) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) among spouses of farmers, not directly involved in the process of spraying. Exposure to 63 sprayings 24 women in households from the rural area of the Łódż Voivodeship in Poland was assessed. The women were asked to collect 3 biological urine samples: in the morning before spraying (sample A), in the evening after spraying (sample B), and on the morning of the next day (sample C). The determination of pesticides in urine was performed by high performance liquid chromatography, coupled with tandem mass spectrometry and negative electrospray (LC-MS/MS-ESI-). In the case of both active ingredient, the number of urine samples with the level of pesticides above limit of detection (LOD) increased from 30% in samples A to 45% in samples B and C. The average levels of herbicides increased from sample A (2.8 ng/g creatinine) to sample B (6.0 ng/g creatinine). The mean value of the C sample was 4.0 ng/g creatinine. Similar results were obtained when the average was calculated for all measurements, including those below LOD. The outdoor activity of the women during spraying was statistically significant (p=0.023), a predictor of exposure in multivariate analyses. The presented study indicates that farmers' spouses might be exposed to pesticides, even if they do not take part in the spraying.

• Environmental asbestos pollution -- situation in Poland.

  Authors: Neonila Szeszenia-Dąbrowska, Wojciech Sobala, Beata Swiątkowska, Grażyna Stroszejn-Mrowca, Urszula Wilczyńska

  International journal of occupational medicine and environmental health. 03/2012; 25(1):3-13.

  Environmental exposure of the general population to asbestos in Poland is mainly due to degradation of very popular asbestos-cement products and the resultant release of the elementary asbestosEnvironmental exposure of the general population to asbestos in Poland is mainly due to degradation of very popular asbestos-cement products and the resultant release of the elementary asbestos fibres into the ambient air. Assessments of environmental pollution by asbestos were based on the volume of the raw material used, amount of manufactured asbestos products, and measuring the concentration of fibres in the air. Under the governmental program intended to remove asbestos, measurements of the concentration of asbestos fibres were performed in 2004-2010 in all provinces of Poland. Considering that potential sources of asbestos dust emissions were present in residential areas, 1634 sampling sites were designated. From 2 to 4 air samples were collected at each sampling site. A total of 5962 samples were collected during seven years. A single dose of air collected by 25 mm 0.8 μm pore Sartorius filter was 1,300 litres. The fibres were counted using optical microscopy with phase contrast (PCM) on a polarizing microscope (PLM) at a total magnification of 600×.; method was adapted to determine the concentration of asbestos fibres in non-occupational environment. Mean concentration of asbestos fibres was 492 f/m(3) (95% CI: 467-518). In 82% of the sampling sites, the mean concentrations did not exceed 800 f/m(3). As much as 25.8% of the samples were found to be below the detection limit of the method. Estimated mean concentrations of fibres in different provinces ranged from 146 (95% CI: 106-203) to 709 f/m(3) (95% CI: 591-851). In the areas affected by former asbestos-processing plants, mean concentration was 732 f/m(3) (95% CI: 527-1016) and was significantly higher than levels recorded in other areas of Poland. Asbestos consumption per capita and the recorded moderate levels of asbestos fibres concentration in atmospheric air point to a relatively low level of environmental asbestos pollution in Poland.

• Polish mother and child cohort study (REPRO_PL)--methodology of follow-up of the children.

  Authors: Kinga Polańska, Wojciech Hanke, Joanna Jurewicz, Wojciech Sobala, Christian Madsen, Per Nafstad, Per Magnus

  International journal of occupational medicine and environmental health. 12/2011; 24(4):391-8.

  A prospective cohort study design gives the opportunity for identification, update of different exposures and their verification by biomarker measurements. The aim of The Polish Mother and ChildA prospective cohort study design gives the opportunity for identification, update of different exposures and their verification by biomarker measurements. The aim of The Polish Mother and Child Cohort Study (REPRO_PL) is to evaluate the impact of exposure to different environmental factors during pregnancy and, after birth, on the pregnancy outcome, children's health and neurodevelopment. REPRO_PL cohort was established in 2007. From the cohort of 1300 mother-child pairs, 300 children are followed-up until they are two years old to asses the exposure, health status and neurodevelopment. Children are examined twice: at one and two years of age by a pediatrician and a psychologist/child development specialist. During each visit, detailed questionnaire is conducted with the mothers and supplemented with the information from the medical charts to have appropriate recognition of the child's health and development. Additionally, the current health status of the child is checked and his/her biometry is performed. A urine sample is collected from each child for the verification of environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) exposure. Some children have a blood sample collected for the assessment of the lead and cadmium levels. Child's neurodevelopment is assessed based on Bayley Scales for Infant and Toddler Development (Bayley-III). The results of the study will become available within the next few years and will help to determine the impact of the environmental exposures on children's health and neurodevelopment. REPRO_PL cohort is a middle-sized cohort, very much focused on specific research questions with the potential for future extension and cooperation.

• Predictors of smoking relapse after delivery: prospective study in central Poland.

  Authors: Kinga Polanska, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, John B Lowe, Jouni J K Jaakkola

  Maternal and child health journal. 07/2011; 15(5):579-86.

  The objective of the study was to identify factors which predispose women to smoking relapse postpartum and the factors that prevent the relapse, in order to design effective interventions to reduceThe objective of the study was to identify factors which predispose women to smoking relapse postpartum and the factors that prevent the relapse, in order to design effective interventions to reduce the rate of smoking relapse after delivery. A prospective cohort study was conducted in 2004 and 2005 in Lodz, Poland. One hundred thirty-eight women who quit smoking for the pregnancy period were enrolled into the study between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy and were followed up at 3 months after delivery. Self-reported non-smoking status at enrollment and postpartum was verified using saliva cotinine level analyzed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The cut-off point of 10 ng/ml was adopted for the saliva cotinine level. About half of the study population relapsed into smoking within 3 months after delivery. Most (49%) relapses occurred in the first 4 weeks postpartum. Three factors were identified as directly influencing smoking relapse after delivery: need to cope with stressful situations (OR = 4.7; 95% CI 1.7-14.3), type of quitting attempt (OR = 4.0; 95% CI 1.1-16.1), and smoking environment at home (OR = 7.2; 95% CI 2.2-28.3). These three factors accounted for 84.0% (95% CI 52.7-96.1) of relapses. The profile of women who relapse to smoking after delivery can be described as quitting smoking only for pregnancy and postpartum period, resorting to smoking in response to stressful situations, and living with smokers. Those factors should be taken into account while conducting antismoking intervention for pregnant and postpartum women.

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• Predictors of environmental exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons among pregnant women--prospective cohort study in Poland.

  Authors: Kinga Polańska, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, Sławomir Brzeźnicki, Danuta Ligocka

  International journal of occupational medicine and environmental health. 03/2011; 24(1):8-17.

  The aim of the study was to characterize the PAH exposure level based on 1-hydroxypyrene (1-HP) in urine of Polish pregnant women and to assess the relationship between PAH and factors such asThe aim of the study was to characterize the PAH exposure level based on 1-hydroxypyrene (1-HP) in urine of Polish pregnant women and to assess the relationship between PAH and factors such as smoking, environmental tobacco smoke exposure, place of residence, heating and cooking method. The study population included in this analysis consisted of 449 pregnant women who had been the subjects of the prospective Polish Mother and Child Cohort study performed in 8 regions of Poland. The women were interviewed three times during pregnancy (once in each trimester). 1-HP concentration in urine was chosen as the biomarker of exposure to PAH. The urine sample was analysed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The active and passive smoking exposure was verified by saliva cotinine, analysed by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MSMS) and isotope dilution method. 1-HP concentration in urine ranged from 0.02 to 10.2 μg/g creatinine with the geometric mean (GM) 0.4 μg/g creatinine. The significantly higher concentration of urinary 1-HP in pregnant women was observed for summer collection (GM ratio: 1.1; p = 0.01), among smokers (GM ratio: 1.7; p < 0.001) and for the women living in big cities (GM ratio: 1.3; p = 0.001). The significantly higher concentration of urinary 1-HP in pregnant women was observed for summer collection, among smokers and those living in big cities.

• [Implementation of the Amiantus project involving prophylactic medical examinations of the former employees of asbestos processing plants].

  Authors: Zuzanna Szubert, Bozenna Stankiewicz-Choroszucha, Magdalena Wrońska-Sobolewska, Elzbieta Cwynar, Joanna Dobrowolska, Regina Wróbel, Małgorzata Ratka, Jacek Jakubowski, Iwona Skórska-Ciszewska, Renata Turbańska, Urszula Gazda, Mieczysław Sova, Halina Pawłowska-Koziełł, Ewa Latala-Łoś, Ewa Komorowska, Wojciech Sobala, Beata Swiatkowska, Neonila Szeszenia-Dabrowska

  Medycyna pracy. 01/2011; 62(5):465-72.

  Based on a 11-year implementation of the Amiantus Project, this paper reports the results of prophylactic medical examinations of the former workers of asbestos processing plants. The ProjectBased on a 11-year implementation of the Amiantus Project, this paper reports the results of prophylactic medical examinations of the former workers of asbestos processing plants. The Project involving employees of 28 former asbestos plants was started by the Ministry of Health in 2000 under the Act on the ban of all products containing asbestos. Preventive examinations, continued in 13 centers of occupational medicine throughout the whole territory of Poland, have been coordinated by the Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine in Lodz (NIOM). During the examinations, a specific Examination Form is filled-in by a physician. The Form is then sent to NIOM for monitoring health effects in the population covered by the Project. The results obtained by analyzing the lung radiological images are recorded in the Examination Form according to the ILO 1980 classification of pneumoconiosis. The diagnosis of the asbestos-related pathologies is based on the Helsinki criteria. During the years 2000-2010, altogether 6,853 people were involved in the Project, and they were subjected to a total of 18,955 preventive examinations. Asbestosis was diagnosed in 1475 people, representing 21% of all respondents, lung cancer in 68 and mesothelioma in 40 people. Pleural radiographic changes were observed in 3027 (44%) patients, pulmonary parenchymal opacities in 4086 (60%) patients. The analysis showed that the asbestos-related pathologies were most frequent in the group of former employees of asbestos-cement plants. This group was also characterized by an age-, tenure-, and latency-related increasing trend in the prevalence of silicosis and the frequency of radiographic lesions in the lungs of those subjects. The continuation of the examinations of former workers of asbestos processing industry has improved the detection of pathologies associated with exposure to asbestos and enabled undertaking an appropriate preventive action. The growing percentage of poorer radiography results reflects the progressive development of pathological processes in the respiratory system of people occupationally exposed to asbestos dust in the past.

• [Occupational diseases in Poland, 2010].

  Authors: Urszula Wilczyńska, Neonila Szeszenia-Dabrowska, Wojciech Sobala, Danuta Drozdz

  Medycyna pracy. 01/2011; 62(4):347-57.

  The aim of the paper was to present basic statistical data on occupational diseases diagnosed in 2010. The work was based on the data compiled from "Occupational Disease Reporting Forms" received byThe aim of the paper was to present basic statistical data on occupational diseases diagnosed in 2010. The work was based on the data compiled from "Occupational Disease Reporting Forms" received by the Central Register of Occupational Diseases in 2010. The data comprised information on nosologic units, gender and age of patients, and duration of occupational exposure to harmful agents responsible for the development of specified pathologies. These data were further classified by sectors of the national economy and voivodeships. The incidence was specified in terms of the number of cases in relation to paid employees or to employed persons. The number of occupational diseases diagnosed in 2010 accounted for 2933 cases. The incidence rate was 28.3 cases per 100 000 paid employees. The highest incidence rates were noted for pneumoconioses (7.6/100,000), infectious and parasitic diseases (7/100 000), hearing loss (3.2/100,000) and chronic voice disorders (3.1/100,000). As many as 77% of patients affected by occupational diseases had been exposed to harmful agents for longer than 20 years. In industrial sectors of the national economy, the highest incidence rate was noted in mining and quarrying (368.2/100,000). Taking into account geographic distribution of occupational diseases, the highest incidence was recorded in the Silesian and the lowest in the Mazovian voivodeships (79.7 and 9.7 cases per 100 000 employed persons, respectively). A decrease of 213 (6.8%) cases of occupational diseases and a decrease of 5.4% in their incidence rate over previous year were noted. The greatest drop in the number of cases was noted in chronic voice disorders (of 302 cases--48.5%) and the greatest rise in pneumonioses (of 156 cases--24.6%).

• [Occupational exposure to pesticides among farmers of the Łódź' voivodeship agricultural area].

  Authors: Joanna Jurewicz, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, Danuta Ligocka, Małgorzata Gawora-Ziółek

  Medycyna pracy. 01/2011; 62(1):9-16.

  Pesticides are widely used in agriculture for the crop protection. Despite advanced mechanization of the agricultural production, the population's exposure to these chemicals is still significant.Pesticides are widely used in agriculture for the crop protection. Despite advanced mechanization of the agricultural production, the population's exposure to these chemicals is still significant. The objective of the study was to evaluate farmers' occupational exposure to two most frequently used pesticides: MCPA and 2,4-D. Pesticide exposure was assessed in 24 farmers, living in the Łódź voivodeship agriculture area, for 71 sprayings performed on their arable areas. The exposure assessment methods were used to estimate workers' exposure to selected pesticides (MCPA and 2,4-D). The analysis covered the biological material (urine) collected on the day of pesticides spraying: in the morning before spraying (Sample A), in the evening after spraying (Sample B) and on the next day (Sample C). The level of pesticides found in farmers' urine was growing from sample A to sample C. The highest level of pesticides was found in sample C and the lowest in sample A. The predictors of the pesticide level were: sample collection time (urine concentration of pesticides in sample C compared with sample B) (p = 0.002), concentration of pesticides in sample A (p = 0.012) and the amount of products used during spraying (p = 0.021). 'The use of protective equipment was at the border of statistical significance (p = 0.059). The differences in exposure between farmers can be only partly explained by the analyzed exposure predictors. The study not only confirmed the presence of occupational exposure but also showed the level of exposure among farmers under study. This is very important because in Poland the level of exposure among farmers is unknown and studies using the biological monitoring are very rare.

• Prediction of the contact sensitizing potential of chemicals using analysis of gene expression changes in human THP-1 monocytes.

  Authors: Joanna Arkusz, Maciej Stępnik, Wojciech Sobala, Jarosław Dastych

  Toxicology letters. 11/2010; 199(1):51-9.

  The aim of this study was to find differentially regulated genes in THP-1 monocytic cells exposed to sensitizers and nonsensitizers and to investigate if such genes could be reliable markers for anThe aim of this study was to find differentially regulated genes in THP-1 monocytic cells exposed to sensitizers and nonsensitizers and to investigate if such genes could be reliable markers for an in vitro predictive method for the identification of skin sensitizing chemicals. Changes in expression of 35 genes in the THP-1 cell line following treatment with chemicals of different sensitizing potential (from nonsensitizers to extreme sensitizers) were assessed using real-time PCR. Verification of 13 candidate genes by testing a large number of chemicals (an additional 22 sensitizers and 8 nonsensitizers) revealed that prediction of contact sensitization potential was possible based on evaluation of changes in three genes: IL8, HMOX1 and PAIMP1. In total, changes in expression of these genes allowed correct detection of sensitization potential of 21 out of 27 (78%) test sensitizers. The gene expression levels inside potency groups varied and did not allow estimation of sensitization potency of test chemicals. Results of this study indicate that evaluation of changes in expression of proposed biomarkers in THP-1 cells could be a valuable model for preliminary screening of chemicals to discriminate an appreciable majority of sensitizers from nonsensitizers.

• [Occupational diseases in Poland, 2009].

  Authors: Urszula Wilczyńska, Neonila Szeszenia-Dabrowska, Wojciech Sobala

  Medycyna pracy. 01/2010; 61(4):369-79.

  The aim of the paper was to present basic statistical data on occupational diseases diagnosed in 2009. The work was based on the data compiled from "Occupational Disease Reporting Forms" received byThe aim of the paper was to present basic statistical data on occupational diseases diagnosed in 2009. The work was based on the data compiled from "Occupational Disease Reporting Forms" received by the Central Register of Occupational Diseases in 2009. The data comprised information on nosologic units, gender and age of patients, and duration of occupational exposure to harmful agents responsible for the development of specified pathologies. These data were further classified by sectors of the national economy and voivodeships. The incidence was specified in terms of the number of cases in relation to paid employees or to employed persons. The number of occupational diseases diagnosed in 2009 accounted for 3146 cases. The incidence rate was 29.9 cases per 100 000 paid employees. The highest incidence rates were noted for infectious and parasitic diseases (8.4/100 000), pneumoconioses (6.0) and chronic voice disorders (5.9). As many as 78% of patients affected by occupational diseases had been exposed to harmful agents for longer than 20 years. In industrial sectors of the national economy, the highest incidence rate was noted in mining and quarrying (297.5/100 000). Taking into account the geographic distribution of occupational diseases, the highest incidence was recorded in the Silesian and the lowest in the Mazovian voivodeships (respectively 54 and 7.5 cases per 100 000 employed persons). A decrease of 400 (11.3%) cases of occupational diseases and a decrease of 13.8% in their incidence rate over previous year were noted. The greatest drop in the number of cases was noted in infectious and parasitic diseases (of 168 cases, i.e. 23%).

• Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and newborn biometric indicators.

  Authors: Kinga Polańska, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, Sławomir Brzeźnicki, Danuta Ligocka

  International journal of occupational medicine and environmental health. 01/2010; 23(4):339-46.

  The aim of the study was to examine the impact of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) on foetal growth. The prospective Polish Mother and Child Cohort study was performed in 8 regions of Poland.The aim of the study was to examine the impact of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) on foetal growth. The prospective Polish Mother and Child Cohort study was performed in 8 regions of Poland. The study population consisted of 449 mother-child pairs All women were interviewed three times during pregnancy (once in each trimester). 1-hydroxypyrene (1-HP) concentration in urine was chosen as the biomarker of exposure to PAH. The urine sample collected from the participant women between 20-24 weeks of pregnancy was analysed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The active and passive smoking exposure was verified by determination of saliva cotinine level using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry/positive electrospray ionisation (LC-ESI+MS/MS) and isotope dilution method. The exposure to PAH measured by 1-HP level in urine of pregnant women was significantly associated with child birth weight (β = -158.3; p = 0.01), chest circumference (β = -0.7; p = 0.02) and cephalisation index (β = 4.2; p = 0.01) after adjustment for gestational age, child gender, pregnant woman marital status, educational level, season of last menstruation period (LMP), prepregnancy body mass index (BMI), and weight gain in pregnancy. After inclusion salivary cotinine levels into the analysis, the results were not statistically significant. Prenatal exposures to PAH adversely influence foetal development including child weight, length, head and chest circumference. Tobacco smoking is the important source of PAH. After controlling for active and passive smoking, the observed associations were not statistically significant.

• [Impact of prenatal environmental tobacco smoke exposure on birth parameters].

  Authors: Kinga Polańska, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, Danuta Ligocka

  Przegla̧d lekarski. 01/2010; 67(10):835-7.

  The aim of the study was to analyze the association between prenatal environmental tobacco smoke exposure (ETS) and child anthropometric parameters at birth such birth weight, length, head and chestThe aim of the study was to analyze the association between prenatal environmental tobacco smoke exposure (ETS) and child anthropometric parameters at birth such birth weight, length, head and chest circumference. The study population consisted of 107 pregnant women from Lodz district as the part of Polish Mother and Child Cohort study. The child prenatal ETS exposure was assessed based on questionnaire with mothers and cotinine level in saliva collected three times in pregnancy. The level of cotinine in biological samples was analyzed using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS ESI+). About 35% of the children were prenatally exposed to ETS. The birth weight of the children prenatally exposed to ETS was 335 g lower than the birth weight of non-exposed newborns p < 0.001 after adjustment for: maternal educational level, marital status, prepregnancy weight, child gender, and gestational age. The same refers to child length and chest circumference (coef. -1.1 cm; p = 0.03 and coef. -1.3 cm; p = 0.002 respectively). Taking into account the negative effect of prenatal exposure to ETS, more efforts need to be taken to eliminate child ETS exposure.

• [The effect of stress on the semen quality].

  Authors: Joanna Jurewicz, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, Dorota Merecz, Michał Radwan

  Medycyna pracy. 01/2010; 61(6):607-13.

  Stress is one of the most important health and social problems. Psychological stress has long been suspected of having an important impact on infertility. Studies on the effects of psychologicalStress is one of the most important health and social problems. Psychological stress has long been suspected of having an important impact on infertility. Studies on the effects of psychological stress on male fertility, especially the semen quality, have so far yielded equivocal findings. The study population consisted of 179 men who had reported to the infertility clinic for diagnostic purposes, some of them with normal fertility (semen total concentration of 15-300 mln/ml) or with slight oligozoospermia (semen total concentration of 10-15 mln/ml). The semen samples were analyzed in one laboratory according to the WHO manual on basic semen analysis. The main semen parameters were assessed: volume, motility, percent of atypical and progressive spermatozoa. To assess the occupational stress the Subjective Work Characteristics Questionnaire was used. Assessing the level of stress we concentrated on the sum of points obtained by each man taking part in the study and the number of psychosocial factors present at work reported by the subjects. Measuring the level of stress by the Subjective Work Characteristics Questionnaire, we revealed negative effects of a number of stressful situations at work, which affect semen volume and percent of progressive spermatozoa, taking account of confounding factors that can have impact on the semen quality and thus affect fertility, such as duration of the couple's infertility, past sexual abstinence and diseases. The study confirm that the occupational stress can affect the male semen quality, however, due to the limited data on this issue, the obtained results must be confirmed by more extensive, longitudinal studies.

• Assessment of the dermal exposure to azoxystrobin among women tending cucumbers in selected Polish greenhouses after restricted entry intervals expired - the role of the protective gloves.

  Authors: Joanna Jurewicz, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, Danuta Ligocka

  International journal of occupational medicine and environmental health. 10/2009;

  Objectives: The purpose of our study was to determine the level of skin contamination by azoxystrobin in a group of women tending cucumbers in a vegetable-growing greenhouse after restricted entryObjectives: The purpose of our study was to determine the level of skin contamination by azoxystrobin in a group of women tending cucumbers in a vegetable-growing greenhouse after restricted entry intervals expired. Methods: Exposure samples were assessed on two days during the spring: first entry on the day after spraying of azoxystrobin and second entry six days later. Dermal exposure was measured by using patches on the outside of clothing and sampling gloves underneath regular working gloves. Pesticide deposited on clothing patches and gloves as a substitute for skin deposition was determined by liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results: The study has shown that workers in a Polish greenhouse are exposed to pesticides at re-entry into the greenhouse after pesticides were sprayed several days earlier. Azoxystrobin has been detected on hands, shoulders and chest. Higher levels of azoxystrobin were found on the cotton gloves of women tending the vegetables than on the patches. The levels decreased (by about 60%) on the patches and increased (by about 250%) on the cotton gloves between the two days of measurement. Conclusions: Women working in a vegetable-growing greenhouse and not directly engaged in the process of spraying experience a measurable dermal exposure to azoxystrobin. The protective gloves constitute a source of secondary exposure rather than protecting employees' hands from contact with the pesticide. More efficient personal protective gloves for proper protection of women working in vegetable greenhouses are needed.

• Coagulation abnormalities and severe intraventricular hemorrhage in extremely low birth weight infants.

  Authors: Andrzej Piotrowski, Iwona Dabrowska-Wojciak, Marek Mikinka, Wojciech Fendler, Wojciech Walas, Wojciech Sobala, Krzysztof Marek Kuczkowski

  The journal of maternal-fetal & neonatal medicine : the official journal of the European Association of Perinatal Medicine, the Federation of Asia and Oceania Perinatal Societies, the International Society of Perinatal Obstetricians. 09/2009;

  Background. The association between intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and coagulation in infants has been a subject of controversy. Only few publications assessing risk factors for development of IVHBackground. The association between intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and coagulation in infants has been a subject of controversy. Only few publications assessing risk factors for development of IVH reported results of coagulation studies. Objectives. To evaluate the levels of coagulation and fibrinolysis systems in ELBW infants and determine their influence on IVH. Patients and methods. Following IRB approval coagulation status of 38 ELBW infants was evaluated on first and second day of life. Severity of IVH assessed by cerebral ultrasonography was graded according to Papile classification. Newborns were assigned to either Group A - Grade III or IV, or Group B - Grade I-II, or no IVH. Results. Neonates with Grade III/IV IVH had significantly lower plasma Factor VII (FVII) level on first day of life and FVII differed significantly between Groups A and B with sensitivity of 100%, specificity 41% for a cut-off value of <7%. In Group A there was no improvement of prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin times on Day 2. A significant decline of platelet count was also observed. Conclusions. High-grade IVH coincides with severe derangement of coagulation in ELBW infants with FVII level being the most sensitive, it is not clear what reason for such low FVII concentration is. Further studies are indicated.

• Cancer mortality and occupational exposure to aromatic amines and inhalable aerosols in rubber tire manufacturing in Poland.

  Authors: Frank de Vocht, Wojciech Sobala, Urszula Wilczynska, Hans Kromhout, Neonila Szeszenia-Dabrowska, Beata Peplonska

  Cancer epidemiology. 09/2009; 33(2):94-102.

  AIM: Most data on carcinogenic risk in the rubber industry are based on data from Western countries. This study assessed cancer risks in a retrospective cohort in a Polish tire manufacturing plant,AIM: Most data on carcinogenic risk in the rubber industry are based on data from Western countries. This study assessed cancer risks in a retrospective cohort in a Polish tire manufacturing plant, relying on quantified exposure to inhalable aerosols and aromatic amines instead of job titles or external comparisons. METHODS: Cumulative exposure for all exposures was assigned to cohort members based on estimates from a company-specific JEM. Cancer risks associated with cumulative exposure adjusted for co-exposures, gender and year of birth were calculated. RESULTS: Exposure levels were higher for women than for men. Aromatic amine exposure was significantly associated with increased urinary bladder cancer risk (RR=7.32-8.27), depending on exposure level, and prostate cancer at low levels only (RR=5.86). In women, increased risks were found for all cancers (RR=2.50) and of the digestive organs and peritoneum (RR=4.54) at low level only, while an exposure-response association with breast cancer risk was found. Inhalable aerosol exposure was associated with cancers of the liver and intrahepatic bile ducts in a dose-dependent manner, while dose-dependent reduced risks were found for respiratory cancers (most notably the larynx) and cancer of the colon. CONCLUSIONS: Increased risks for specific cancer sites in this rubber plant were similar to Western Europe and the US. However, several cancer risks were gender-specific which could relate to higher exposure levels in women or to differences in exposures to chemicals not assessed in this study.

• [Exposure of smoking pregnant women to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons]

  Authors: Kinga Polańska, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, Sławomir Brzeźnicki, Danuta Ligocka

  Medycyna pracy. 02/2009; 60(2):103-8.

  BACKGROUND: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are compounds that are formed as a result of incomplete combustion of organic matter. The most common sources of PAHs are cigarette smoke,BACKGROUND: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are compounds that are formed as a result of incomplete combustion of organic matter. The most common sources of PAHs are cigarette smoke, coal-fired utilities, steel plants, coke-oven plants, graphite electrode manufacturing plant, Söderberg aluminum electrolysis plant, vehicle exhaust, wood-burning ovens and fireplaces, and charcoal-grilled and smoked food. The aim of the study was to assess the exposure of smoking pregnant women to PAHs. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study population consisted of 189 pregnant women from the Lódź voivodeship (province). Smoking status was assessed based on saliva cotinine level analyzed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The cutoff point 10 ng/ml was adopted for saliva cotinine level. 1-hydroxypyrene (1-HP) concentration in urine sample was chosen as the biomarker of exposure to PAHs. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The mean concentration of 1-HP in urine of nonsmoking woman was 0.60 microg/g creatinine, whereas in smoking one 1.35 microg/g creatinine. Among the women with saliva cotinine level higher than 10 ng/ml, the mean concentration of 1-HP in urine was over twofold higher than that in women with cotinine level lower than 10 ng/ml after adjustment for the day of urine ample collection (ratio of geometric mean 2.3; 95% CI 1.7-3.0). The study confirmed a higher risk of exposure to PAHs in the group of women who smoke cigarettes during pregnancy as compared to nonsmoking women. It should be stressed that cigarette smoking is not the only source of exposure to PAHs.

• [Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke and psychomotor development of children]

  Authors: Kinga Polańska, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, Danuta Ligocka

  Medycyna pracy. 02/2009; 60(1):15-20.

  BACKGROUND: In Poland, prenatal exposure to tobacco smoke is observed in about 30 percent of children and postnatal in over 50 percent of children. This exposure has serious health consequences,BACKGROUND: In Poland, prenatal exposure to tobacco smoke is observed in about 30 percent of children and postnatal in over 50 percent of children. This exposure has serious health consequences, including the negative effect on child neurodevelopment. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure on child psychomotor development. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study population consisted of 63 children with well assessed prenatal ETS exposure (a threefold analysis of cotinine level in saliva of pregnant women). To assess ETS exposure in infants within one year after birth a questionnaire-based interview was conducted with mothers. The Bayley Scale for Infant and Toddler Development (BESID-III) was used for the evaluation of child neurodevelopment. RESULTS: Multivariate analysis (including gender, birth order of the child and parental educational status) indicated the statistically significant association between prenatal exposure to ETS and cognitive child development (b = -4.0; p = 0.04). ETS exposure has also a negative impact on motor (b = -2.7; p = 0.2) and language (b = -3.4; p = 0.08) abilities of the child although the results were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal smoking was found to be related to a decrease in child neurodevelopment, however, it was impossible to separate the prenatal from postnatal exposure. A lot of effort should be made to eliminate ETS exposure of children.

• [Prenatal and postnatal child exposure to environmental tobacco smoke].

  Authors: Kinga Polańska, Wojciech Hanke, Wojciech Sobala, Danuta Ligocka

  Przegla̧d lekarski. 01/2009; 66(10):554-7.

  The aim of the study was to evaluate the prenatal and postnatal child exposure to environmental tobacco smoke. The study population consisted of 83 women from Lodz, Poland among which detailThe aim of the study was to evaluate the prenatal and postnatal child exposure to environmental tobacco smoke. The study population consisted of 83 women from Lodz, Poland among which detail questionnaire was conducted three times during pregnancy period. From all women included into the study the saliva sample was collected to verify smoking status in pregnancy. One year after delivery the second questionnaire was performed and urine sample from all children was collected. The cotinine level in saliva and urine was analyzed using Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS ESI+). About 22% of the children were expose to ETS during prenatal and 46% in postnatal period. Cotinine level in children's urine statistically differentiated children from smoking mothers (Geometric Mean (GM) 11.4 ng/ml; 95% CI 7.1-18.3) and exposed homes (GM 7.3 ng/ml; 95% CI 3.6-15.0) compared with non-exposed homes (GM 1.3 ng/ml; 95% CI 0.9-1.7) (p < 0.001). Children should be more protected from ETS exposure in prenatal and postnatal period.

• Polish mother and child cohort study--defining the problem, the aim of the study and methodological assumption.

  Authors: Kinga Polańska, Wojciech Hanke, Jolanta Gromadzińska, Danuta Ligocka, Ewa Gulczyńska, Wojciech Sobala, Wojciech Wásowicz

  International journal of occupational medicine and environmental health. 01/2009; 22(4):383-91.

  Exposures during prenatal period have implications for pregnancy outcome as well as for children's health, morbidity and mortality. Prospective cohort study design allows for the identification ofExposures during prenatal period have implications for pregnancy outcome as well as for children's health, morbidity and mortality. Prospective cohort study design allows for the identification of exposures that may influence pregnancy outcome and children's health, verification of such exposures by biomarker measurements and notification of any changes in exposure level. Polish Mother and Child Cohort Study (REPRO_PL) is multicenter prospective cohort study conducted in 8 different regions of Poland. The final cohort is intended to comprise 1300 mother-child pairs to be recruited within 4-year period (2007-2011). The recruitment and all scheduled visits are conducted in maternity units or clinics in the districts included in the study. The women are followed-up 3 times in pregnancy (once in each trimester) and after delivery for the notification of pregnancy outcome. During each visit, detailed questionnaire and biological samples are collected including saliva, urine, hair, maternal blood and cord blood. About 6 weeks postpartum, breast milk from part of the women is collected. The study concentrates on the identification and evaluation of the effects of prenatal environmental exposure on pregnancy outcome and children's health. Specific research hypotheses refer to the role of heavy metals, exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) in the aetiology of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and preterm delivery (PD). The role of oxidative stress putative mechanism and pregnant women nutritional status will be investigated. Based on questionnaire data, the impact of occupational exposures and stressful situations will be evaluated. The results of the study will become available within the next few years and will help to determine levels of child prenatal exposure in several areas of Poland and its impact on course and outcome of pregnancy.