CUMULATIVE EXPOSURE, RISK ASSESSMENT AND COMMUNICATION OF PHTHALATES IN VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
Impact/Purpose:
This project will implement a cumulative phthalates risk assessment methodology set forth by the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) in 2008. It will address whether in two populations of disadvantaged women there are sentinel metabolites that characterize phthalate exposure; whether a dose addition, component-based model for cumulative risk assessment can be used to predict additive risk in these groups; and what the major exposure sources and risk communication best practices are in these populations.
Description:
By exploring the utility of the NAS method in predicting risk in vulnerable populations, this project will answer the question of whether certain metabolites characterize phthalate exposure in two sensitive groups. Nail salon workers likely will have higher levels due to their membership in a uniquely exposed occupational group. This research will result in the first-ever measurement of cumulative phthalate exposure in a CA population and also will reveal whether the NAS method can be used to evaluate cumulative risk. Phthalate levels likely will correlate with questionnaire data, providing insights into exposure sources and potential intervention strategies. A risk communication analysis will further identify best practices for responsible results communication in these vulnerable populations, helping to build trust and continued participation in the research process.
Potential to Further Environmental/Human Health Protection
This research will advance scientific thinking around mixtures, cumulative risk assessment, exposure sources and risk communication in susceptible populations. It will inform efforts to characterize and address social disparities in chemical exposures and contribute to initiatives to manage phthalates and other compounds, ensure chemical safety, engage disadvantaged populations and promote sustainable and healthy communities.