You are here:
DEMONSTRATION OF LOW COST, LOW BURDEN EXPOSURE MONITORING STRATEGIES - BIRTH COHORT
Citation:
FORTMANN, R. C. DEMONSTRATION OF LOW COST, LOW BURDEN EXPOSURE MONITORING STRATEGIES - BIRTH COHORT. Presented at NCS Pilot Study Review, Research Triangle Park, NC, December 03, 2004.
Impact/Purpose:
The primary objective of this study is to develop and demonstrate relevant, low cost, low burden monitoring strategies that can be used in a longitudinal epidemiological study that focuses on pregnant women and young children.
Description:
This study was designed to develop and demonstrate relevant, low cost, low burden monitoring strategies that can be used in a longitudinal epidemiological study that focuses on pregnant women and young children. The focus of this study was on (1) recruiting and retaining participants (children and their caretakers) in a longitudinal exposure study and (2) demonstrating the feasibility of measurement strategies that use remote employment of readily available, easy to use, state-of-the-art methods, instruments, and/or techniques for assessing human exposures to environmental contaminants. The monitoring strategies involved mailing sampling kits to study participants with instructions for collecting biological samples (e.g., urine, breast milk, and hair) and environmental samples (e.g., water, house dust, surface wipes and personal air samples). After collection, participants packaged and shipped the samples back to the laboratory. Participants also completed an on-line questionnaire that collected information on contaminant sources and participant activities at the time of sample collection. The study has been completed. Results of the study demonstrated high retention rates over the one-year sample collection period. Compliance with sample collection protocols was very good and return rates were high for most sample types. Return of urine samples collected with diapers or as first morning voids was very good. As expected, participants had difficulty collecting samples using more complex methods, such as a badge sampler for volatile organic compounds. Considerable information was generated that favorably supports the strategy of remote sample collection by study participants. Lessons learned in the study will be important in developing the sample collection protocols for the National Children's Study.
Although this work was reviewed by EPA and approved for publication, it may not necessarily reflect official Agency policy.