Background exposure to smoke-related pollutants among firefighters during training in the Pantanal biome

Abstract

Objective: To assess firefighters’ exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the Pantanal biome of Brazil. Methods: A descriptive observational study was conducted. Hydroxy-PAHs (OH-PAHs) were used as biomarkers. Urine and soil samples were collected and analyzed. Results: Sixty firefighters participated, from which 57 were male. The study found widespread PAH exposure among firefighters, with 1-OHNap being the most prevalent metabolite (mean = 4.5 ng mL-1). Smokers exhibited higher OH-PAH concentrations (2-OHNap mean: Smokers = 3.0 ng mL-1, Nonsmokers = 1.7 ng mL-1, p<0.05). Total estimated daily intake (TEDI: from 3,88×10-4 to 4,42×10-4 μg day-1) highlighted potential health risks. Soil analysis indicated PAHs from combustion sources and atmospheric deposition from wildfires. Carcinogenic equivalent and Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) revealed significant long-term health risks. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified various combustion sources contributing to PAH distribution. Conclusions: The high exposure to PAHs among participants and the contamination by PAHs in the Pantanal biome underscore the need to implement measures to protect firefighters’ health.