A new study by researchers at NIEHS found that over half of the US population is sensitive to one or more allergens. The prevalence of positive skin test responses was significantly higher in NHANES III than in NHANES II, coinciding with an increase in asthma cases between 1980 and 1996.
Researchers at NIEHS discovered that the beta estrogen receptor plays a significant role in ovarian function, potentially leading to new treatments for infertility. A simple blood test could diagnose genetic mutations affecting the receptor's function, improving treatment options and chances of having a healthy child.
A recent study found that day care centers are a major source of indoor allergens, with detectable levels of various allergens present in every facility. The study also discovered significant differences between carpeted and non-carpeted surfaces, with lower concentrations of allergens on non-carpeted surfaces.
Researchers found that early-life exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) can increase the incidence of uterine tumors in rats with a genetic predisposition. The study suggests that environmental exposures during development can interact with a preexisting genetic susceptibility to increase disease risk.
Researchers found that exposure to fine particles in air pollution impairs blood vessel reactivity in people with diabetes, leading to a higher risk of heart problems. The study also suggests that this association may help explain previous findings on the link between air pollution and cardiovascular issues in diabetics.
Researchers found a significant association between high lifetime exposure to insecticides and neurological symptoms in farmers. Nearly 800 participants reported more than 10 neurological symptoms, while nearly 3,000 had a high lifetime exposure to insecticides.
The study found that standardized processes and commercially manufactured microarrays lead to more consistent results. This standardization can improve clinical practice, including personalized medical treatments for diseases like breast cancer.
A new study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that cockroach allergens are a primary contributor to childhood asthma in inner-city home environments. The study suggests that general cleaning practices, extermination techniques, and maintenance methods can reduce allergen levels.
Researchers found a link between air pollution and chromosomal abnormalities in babies, with stable alterations increasing cancer risk. The study monitored exposure to PAHs among African-American and Dominican mothers in NYC, finding higher abnormalities in those exposed to high pollution levels.
The report lists 58 substances as 'known human carcinogens' due to evidence from human studies, including HBV, HCV, and HPV. Eleven new substances have been added to the list of 'reasonably anticipated human carcinogens', including naphthalene, MeIQx, and lead.
A recent study found that individuals exposed to high levels of lead are more likely to develop cataracts, with bone lead levels being the best predictor. The researchers estimate that lead exposure plays a role in approximately 42 percent of all cataracts in the studied population.
The NIEHS is developing a new RNAi library to better understand the effects of environmental toxins on human health. This technology will help researchers identify specific genes responsible for adverse responses to chemicals, ultimately aiding in the development of new disease prevention strategies.
Researchers discovered two compounds that block red tide toxin effects on respiratory systems, showing promise in treating cystic fibrosis. The compounds improved mucus clearance and may work at concentrations without side effects.
The NIH is funding a five-year study to assess the impact of local design and transportation changes on physical activity and obesity. The goal is to determine if simple changes in the built environment can enhance physical activity and reduce obesity for residents.
A recent study by University of Wisconsin-Madison scientists has identified a brain protein called transthyretin that appears to protect brain cells from toxic beta-amyloid, which contributes to Alzheimer's disease. The findings suggest that boosting transthyretin levels in the brain could be a promising approach to treating the disease.
A group of experts recommends incorporating environmental health into pediatric medical and nursing education, citing gaps in current curricula. The study aims to equip healthcare providers with tools to recognize, treat, and prevent diseases related to environmental factors.
A new gene test can predict a child's risk of having an isolated cleft lip and palate, allowing parents to make informed decisions about future pregnancies. The test, based on distinct mutations in the IRF6 gene, has been shown to be effective in predicting the birth defect with approximately 12% accuracy.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that air pollution can significantly reduce lung function in children between ages 10 and 18. Researchers tracked air pollutant levels in Southern California communities and found a correlation between poor air quality and decreased forced expiratory volume.
Researchers found that a diet rich in vegetables, fruit, and protein sources like beef and beans can lower the risk of childhood leukemia. Glutathione, an antioxidant found in these foods, plays a key role in reducing cancer risk.
A new research center aims to investigate the links between environmental exposures and childhood health in the heavily contaminated Tar Creek area. The center will conduct integrated studies on toxic metals, epidemiology, and animal models to better understand their effects on neurological, behavioral, and mental development.
A national survey of 831 US homes found that dog and cat allergen levels were higher among households with more dog or cat owners. This exposure may be particularly challenging for pet-allergic individuals living in areas with high dog and cat ownership rates.
A New York City study reveals that newborns are equally exposed to DNA damage from air pollution as their mothers, despite lower pollutant doses. The research highlights the importance of reducing air pollution levels in urban areas.
A recent study by Cohn et al. found that 82 percent of U.S. homes contain mouse allergens, with kitchen floors being the most contaminated area. The study, conducted across the entire country, highlights the need for clinicians to consider rodent and cockroach problems as risk factors when treating allergy and asthma patients.
A new study by Mount Sinai researchers found that exposure to WTC dust increased the risk of respiratory symptoms, including cough, wheeze, and shortness of breath. Pregnant women who were near the disaster site experienced a two-fold increase in small for gestational age infants.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that breastfeeding for at least 28 days is associated with a 20% lower risk of dying between 28 days and one year of age. Longer breastfeeding duration also showed a similar benefit, indicating that even moderate breastfeeding can have a positive impact on infant mortality rates.
The four new research centers will study the effects of harmful algal blooms, marine pathogens, and ocean potential for drug discovery. The combined expertise of experts in biomedical and oceanographic sciences will accelerate scientific discovery.
Researchers measured blood levels of chlorpyrifos and diazinon in umbilical cords before and after the ban and found a significant reduction in birth weights and lengths in infants with high pesticide exposure. The study confirms developmental impact of insecticides on human health.
Children whose mothers were exposed to second-hand smoke during pregnancy had reduced scores on tests of cognitive development at age two. They also showed a higher likelihood of developmental delays and lower cognitive performance. The effects were more pronounced for those who experienced material hardship during pregnancy.
Dr. Kenneth Olden has received the Society of Toxicology's Public Communications Award for his efforts to bridge the gap between researchers, policymakers, and the public through open access journals and regional town meetings.
The Environmental Polymorphism Registry aims to investigate the interaction between genes and environment. Researchers will analyze DNA samples from 20,000 participants to identify genetic variants associated with environmental exposure.
A study found a higher prevalence of congenital abnormalities related to testicular descent in boys exposed to endosulfan. Although the sample size was small, the results suggest a link between endosulfan exposure and delayed sexual maturity in males.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) has awarded $9 million to support ongoing research on the health consequences of the 9/11 attacks. The funding will continue to study human exposures, respiratory and psychological problems, and provide education and training for workers and communities.
Researchers found that even low levels of ground-level ozone increase asthma symptoms in children with active asthma. A 50 ppb increase in ozone was associated with a 35% increase in wheezing and chest tightness among asthmatic children on maintenance medication.
A study by NIH/NIEHS has identified a mouse gene linked to hydrocephalus, a common birth defect. The research team cloned the defective gene, which affects cerebrospinal fluid drainage, and found it causes classic symptoms of hydrocephalus in mice.
A new study found that repair enzymes can 'distinguish' between various positions on the DNA strand, varying in effectiveness depending on their orientation relative to the nucleosome. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of DNA repair and its role in preventing diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's.
Researchers discover cadmium inhibits DNA repair mechanisms, leading to dramatic mutations and increased cancer risk in humans. Environmental exposure to cadmium may cause genetic damage through this novel pathway.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences is conducting a study to investigate the causes of rheumatic diseases, including lupus and scleroderma. The research focuses on identical twins and close siblings, collecting blood and urine samples to examine environmental exposures and genetic variations.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that even low levels of lead exposure can cause intellectual impairment in children. The researchers discovered that most of the damage to intellectual functioning occurs at blood lead concentrations below 10 micrograms per deciliter.
The Environmental Genome Project has identified genetic variations that confer susceptibility to environmental agents, including a polymorphism in the NKX3.1 gene associated with increased risk of prostate cancer. The project aims to develop effective therapies targeting these pathways.
Scientists discover that low levels of bisphenol A exposure in animal lab lead to highly significant increases in egg abnormalities, including aneuploidy and disorganized chromosomes. Further study is warranted due to potential human health risks.
The Sister Study aims to investigate the causes of breast cancer by recruiting 50,000 sisters of women with breast cancer. The researchers will collect biological and environmental samples, as well as questionnaires about health histories, environmental exposures, and lifestyles.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is launching a $20 million effort to pinpoint environmental triggers of Parkinson's disease. Three centers will conduct independent research, including the University of California at Los Angeles, Emory University, and The Parkinson's Institute.
The report highlights deficiencies in protecting rescue and other workers, resulting in unnecessary injuries, particularly to eyes and lungs. Improvements recommended include providing emergency response personnel with appropriate protective gear and developing safety regulations tailored to large terrorist events.
A damaged DNA synthesis enzyme has been shown to cause progressive muscle weakening in a rare eye condition. The researchers found that the faulty enzyme makes errors ten-fold more frequently than healthy individuals, leading to accumulation of mistakes and muscle degeneration.
A recent study has identified over 100 yeast genes that provide protection against radiation, revealing new insights into human genetic resistance to environmental stressors. The findings also suggest potential targets for the development of more effective anti-cancer drugs.
Researchers found that encasing pillows and mattresses with allergen-proof covers, washing bedding weekly, and vacuuming carpets reduced dust mite allergen concentrations. Dry steam cleaning also lowered allergen levels in upholstered furniture.
A recent study published in The Lancet found a link between DDT use in the US and an increase in premature births in the 1960s. Researchers analyzed stored blood serum from thousands of mothers, revealing elevated levels of DDT's breakdown product, DDE, in mothers of pre-term infants.
The NIH and NIOSH are collaborating on a $33 million, five-year study to investigate how social and physical environmental factors impact the health of racial and ethnic minorities. The research aims to understand the underlying causes of disparities in health outcomes.
A 2000 study found that daughters of mothers exposed to the chemical polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) in contaminated Michigan feed experienced earlier onset of menstruation and pubic hair growth. The study, funded by NIH/NIEHS, linked high PBB exposure to an average age of first menstruation before 12 years.
Researchers found that most women (70%) are in their fertile window before day 10 or after day 17, leaving few universal 'safe' days for natural birth control. The study also revealed that late ovulation can occur even in women with regular cycles, increasing the chances of pregnancy during the fifth week.