ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To explore the association of occupational pesticide exposure with acute and mental health symptoms. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey carried out with 78 Brazilian family farmers, who were pesticide applicators and helpers conveniently selected. Symptoms and exposure data were collected by interviews, and mental health outcomes by the Self-Reporting Questionnaire. Blood samples were analyzed to assess cholinesterase levels. Exposure indicators and symptoms were compared between applicators and helpers, and Poisson regression was performed to estimate prevalence ratios. RESULTS: Farmers reported exposure to multiple pesticides from early ages; they worked without safety training, technical support, and full protective equipment, and they had a high prevalence of acute and mental health symptoms (e.g., headache, mucosal irritation, tachycardia, and depressive signs). Applicators had more cholinesterase changes than helpers, but less symptoms. Helpers used less personal protection and had significantly higher prevalence ratio of headache, dyspnea, wheezing, cough, poor digestion, tiredness, and feeling worthless, after adjustment. CONCLUSIONS: Acute and mental health symptoms were observed, both among farmers and helpers. Thus, surveillance actions must be reinforced in Brazil, technical support and safety training improved, focused on applicators and helpers, who are occupationally and environmentally exposed to pesticides. Agricultural practices of these groups with less pesticide use should receive incentive.

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To explore the association of occupational pesticide exposure with acute and mental health symptoms. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey carried out with 78 Brazilian family farmers, who were pesticide applicators and helpers conveniently selected. Symptoms and exposure data were collected by interviews, and mental health outcomes by the Self-Reporting Questionnaire. Blood samples were analyzed to assess cholinesterase levels. Exposure indicators and symptoms were compared between applicators and helpers, and Poisson regression was performed to estimate prevalence ratios. RESULTS: Farmers reported exposure to multiple pesticides from early ages; they worked without safety training, technical support, and full protective equipment, and they had a high prevalence of acute and mental health symptoms (e.g., headache, mucosal irritation, tachycardia, and depressive signs). Applicators had more cholinesterase changes than helpers, but less symptoms. Helpers used less personal protection and had significantly higher prevalence ratio of headache, dyspnea, wheezing, cough, poor digestion, tiredness, and feeling worthless, after adjustment. CONCLUSIONS: Acute and mental health symptoms were observed, both among farmers and helpers. Thus, surveillance actions must be reinforced in Brazil, technical support and safety training improved, focused on applicators and helpers, who are occupationally and environmentally exposed to pesticides. Agricultural practices of these groups with less pesticide use should receive incentive.

Background: Allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (ARC) has a prevalence of 30% in industrialized countries. For an accurate diagnosis and treatment, it is crucial to identify the causative aeroallergen. Aim: To evaluate aeroallergen sensitization in adults with ARC in the city of Temuco, Chile. Patients and Methods: A skin test against the main aeroallergens present in Temuco was carried out in patients aged 15 to 64 years with ARC diagnosed by medical examination and the Score For Allergic Rhinitis. Results: At least one aeroallergen sensitization was present in 234 (62.4%) out of 375 patients. Pollen-sensitized patients were positive mainly for Grasses (44.4%), Plantago (27.8%), Cynodon (26.1%), Sorrel (23.5%), Birch (14.9%), Nothofagus obliqua (13.3%) and Alder (11.1%). Dust mites were the most common non-pollinic sensitizing aeroallergens, including Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (70.1%) and Dermatophagoides farinae (62.8%). Conclusions: According to our results, skin tests in the city of Temuco should include at least dust mites, pollens of Grasses, Plantago, Cynodon, Sorrel, Birch, Nothofagus obliqua and Alder, because these allergens account for 93% of ARC cases in this city.

Objective: To evaluate organophosphate pesticide exposure and neuropsychological and motor performance in agricultural and non-agricultural workers in the Maule Region in Chile. Method: Analytic cross-sectional study in 93 exposed farm workers and 84 unexposed non-agricultural workers. A battery of four neuropsychological tests was administered together with a neuro-motor physical examination. Results: On the Weschler adult intelligence scale (WAIS-IV), exposed agricultural workers exhibited poorer performance than non-agricultural workers in verbal comprehension (Β = -3.2; p = 0.034) and processing speed (Β = -4.4; p = 0.036) and in the full scale (Β = -4; p = 0.016), as well as in discrimination sensitivity (Β = 1, p = 0,009), adjusted by years of schooling and/or age. Conclusions: We suggest the development of policies and regulations for the control, sale and use of organophosphate pesticides and intervention strategies on safety measures aimed at the exposed population.

Objetivo: Evaluar la exposición a plaguicidas organofosforados y el desempeño neuropsicológico y motor de trabajadores/as agrícolas y no agrícolas de la Región del Maule, Chile. Método: Estudio transversal analítico con 93 trabajadores/as agrícolas expuestos/as a plaguicidas organofosforados y 84 trabajadores/as no agrícolas no expuestos/as. Se administró una batería de cuatro pruebas neuropsicológicas junto con un examen físico neuromotor. Resultados: Los/las trabajadores/as agrícolas expuestos/as tuvieron un menor desempeño en la escala de inteligencia de Wechsler para Adultos (WAIS-IV) en comprensión verbal (Β = -3,2; p = 0,034), en velocidad de procesamiento (Β = -4,4; p = 0,036) y en la escala total (Β = -4; p = 0,016); sensibilidad discriminativa (Β = 1, p = 0,009) ajustada por años de educación o edad en comparación con los controles. Conclusiones: Se sugiere el desarrollo de políticas en materia de control, venta y uso de plaguicidas organofosforados, y de intervenciones con la población expuesta respecto a medidas de seguridad.

Objective: To evaluate organophosphate pesticide exposure and neuropsychological and motor performance in agricultural and non-agricultural workers in the Maule Region in Chile. Method: Analytic cross-sectional study in 93 exposed farm workers and 84 unexposed non-agricultural workers. A battery of four neuropsychological tests was administered together with a neuro-motor physical examination. Results: On the Weschler adult intelligence scale (WAIS-IV), exposed agricultural workers exhibited poorer performance than non-agricultural workers in verbal comprehension (Β = -3.2; p = 0.034) and processing speed (Β = -4.4; p = 0.036) and in the full scale (Β = -4; p = 0.016), as well as in discrimination sensitivity (Β = 1, p = 0,009), adjusted by years of schooling and/or age. Conclusions: We suggest the development of policies and regulations for the control, sale and use of organophosphate pesticides and intervention strategies on safety measures aimed at the exposed population.

Objetivo: Evaluar la exposición a plaguicidas organofosforados y el desempeño neuropsicológico y motor de trabajadores/as agrícolas y no agrícolas de la Región del Maule, Chile. Método: Estudio transversal analítico con 93 trabajadores/as agrícolas expuestos/as a plaguicidas organofosforados y 84 trabajadores/as no agrícolas no expuestos/as. Se administró una batería de cuatro pruebas neuropsicológicas junto con un examen físico neuromotor. Resultados: Los/las trabajadores/as agrícolas expuestos/as tuvieron un menor desempeño en la escala de inteligencia de Wechsler para Adultos (WAIS-IV) en comprensión verbal (Β = -3,2; p = 0,034), en velocidad de procesamiento (Β = -4,4; p = 0,036) y en la escala total (Β = -4; p = 0,016); sensibilidad discriminativa (Β = 1, p = 0,009) ajustada por años de educación o edad en comparación con los controles. Conclusiones: Se sugiere el desarrollo de políticas en materia de control, venta y uso de plaguicidas organofosforados, y de intervenciones con la población expuesta respecto a medidas de seguridad.

A evidência sugere que um depósito de minerais removido em 1998 por seu alto teor de chumbo ainda poderia ser uma fonte relevante de exposição a este metal, na cidade de Antofagasta, Chile. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a associação entre a distância da residência até o antigo depósito e a concentração de chumbo no sangue. Estudo transversal com 185 crianças de 7-16 anos. A variável dependente foi a concentração de chumbo no sangue medido em 2005; a exposição foi a distância (metros) entre a residência atual e o antigo depósito de chumbo, obtida por meio do Sistema de Informação Geográfica (SIG). A concentração de chumbo no sangue foi de 3,3μg/dL (intervalo interquartil ‒IQR: 2,0-4.3). Constatou-se uma relação inversa entre a distância da casa para o antigo local de recolha e a concentração de chumbo no sangue (β: -0,04; IC95%: -0,09; -0,01). Esse resultado confirma que o antigo lugar de armazenagem do minério continua a ser uma fonte relevante de exposição ao chumbo.

Evidence suggests that an old mineral storage site removed in 1998 due to high lead content, remains as a source of exposure in the city of Antofagasta, Chile. The aim was to determine the association between blood lead levels in children and the residential proximity to the old mineral storage site. A cross sectional study was conducted with 185 children aged 7 to 16 years. The outcome variable was blood lead levels measured in 2005. The exposure variable was the distance between the current residence and the old mineral storage site. The distance was measured in meters by Geographic Information System (GIS). The median blood lead level in 2005 was 3.3μg/dL (interquartile range ‒ IQR: 2.0-4.3). A significant inverse association was found between the residential distance to the old mineral storage site and the blood lead levels in children, after adjusting by confounders (β: -0.04; 95%CI: -0.09; -0.01). This result suggests that the old mineral storage site continues to be a source of lead exposure for the children living nearby.

Evidencia sugiere que un antiguo sitio de acopio de minerales removido en 1998 por el alto contenido de plomo, aún sería una fuente de exposición en la ciudad de Antofagasta, Chile. El objetivo fue determinar la asociación entre la concentración de plomo en sangre y la distancia entre la vivienda actual y el antiguo sitio de acopio. Se realizó un estudio de diseño transversal con 185 niños de 7 a 16 años. La variable dependiente fue la concentración de plomo sanguíneo, medida el 2005. La variable de exposición fue la distancia entre la vivienda actual y el antiguo sitio de acopio. Esta distancia fue medida en metros mediante Sistema de Información Geográfica (SIG). La concentración de plomo en sangre fue de 3,3μg/dL (rango intercuartil ‒ RIC: 2,0-4,3). Se encontró una relación inversa y significativa entre la distancia de la vivienda al antiguo sitio de acopio y la concentración de plomo sanguíneo (β: -0,04; IC95%: -0,09; -0,01). Este resultado sugiere que el antiguo sitio de acopio de minerales sigue siendo una fuente de exposición a plomo.

A evidência sugere que um depósito de minerais removido em 1998 por seu alto teor de chumbo ainda poderia ser uma fonte relevante de exposição a este metal, na cidade de Antofagasta, Chile. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a associação entre a distância da residência até o antigo depósito e a concentração de chumbo no sangue. Estudo transversal com 185 crianças de 7-16 anos. A variável dependente foi a concentração de chumbo no sangue medido em 2005; a exposição foi a distância (metros) entre a residência atual e o antigo depósito de chumbo, obtida por meio do Sistema de Informação Geográfica (SIG). A concentração de chumbo no sangue foi de 3,3μg/dL (intervalo interquartil ‒IQR: 2,0-4.3). Constatou-se uma relação inversa entre a distância da casa para o antigo local de recolha e a concentração de chumbo no sangue (β: -0,04; IC95%: -0,09; -0,01). Esse resultado confirma que o antigo lugar de armazenagem do minério continua a ser uma fonte relevante de exposição ao chumbo.

Evidence suggests that an old mineral storage site removed in 1998 due to high lead content, remains as a source of exposure in the city of Antofagasta, Chile. The aim was to determine the association between blood lead levels in children and the residential proximity to the old mineral storage site. A cross sectional study was conducted with 185 children aged 7 to 16 years. The outcome variable was blood lead levels measured in 2005. The exposure variable was the distance between the current residence and the old mineral storage site. The distance was measured in meters by Geographic Information System (GIS). The median blood lead level in 2005 was 3.3μg/dL (interquartile range ‒ IQR: 2.0-4.3). A significant inverse association was found between the residential distance to the old mineral storage site and the blood lead levels in children, after adjusting by confounders (β: -0.04; 95%CI: -0.09; -0.01). This result suggests that the old mineral storage site continues to be a source of lead exposure for the children living nearby.

Evidencia sugiere que un antiguo sitio de acopio de minerales removido en 1998 por el alto contenido de plomo, aún sería una fuente de exposición en la ciudad de Antofagasta, Chile. El objetivo fue determinar la asociación entre la concentración de plomo en sangre y la distancia entre la vivienda actual y el antiguo sitio de acopio. Se realizó un estudio de diseño transversal con 185 niños de 7 a 16 años. La variable dependiente fue la concentración de plomo sanguíneo, medida el 2005. La variable de exposición fue la distancia entre la vivienda actual y el antiguo sitio de acopio. Esta distancia fue medida en metros mediante Sistema de Información Geográfica (SIG). La concentración de plomo en sangre fue de 3,3μg/dL (rango intercuartil ‒ RIC: 2,0-4,3). Se encontró una relación inversa y significativa entre la distancia de la vivienda al antiguo sitio de acopio y la concentración de plomo sanguíneo (β: -0,04; IC95%: -0,09; -0,01). Este resultado sugiere que el antiguo sitio de acopio de minerales sigue siendo una fuente de exposición a plomo.

Modeer T. et al.(2011) claim that there is association between decreased salivary flow rate and caries in obese adolescents. The aim of this study was to determine the association among nutritional status, salivary flow rate and caries risk in preschoolers. The study comprised 60 children aged 3 to 6 years attending kindergartens in areas immediately adjacent to Buenos Aires City, Argentina. Body weight and height of the children were determined. Body mass index was calculated and the population was classified anthropometrically according to the WHO 2007 (WHO Anthro. Program). Caries risk was determined. Saliva was collected in sterile graduated widemouth containers, without stimulation and without food restrictions. Salivary flow rate (SFR) was determined. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson's test. It was found that 56.7% (IC95%: 37.7-74.0) of anthropometrically adequate children (Ad) and 37.0% (IC95%: 20.1-57.5) of overweight and obese children (OW/Ob) had caries. The odds ratio for caries (OR=3.78; IC95%: 1.2-11.8, p=0.02) was almost 4 times higher in adequate children than in the others. SFR was 0.534 0.318 ml/min in Ad and 0.439 �} 0.234 ml/min in OW/Ob. Pearson's test showed no correlation between SFR and nutritional status (r= 0.004592, p= 0.5977). Although the presence of caries was lower in overweight and obese children, no correlation was found between nutritional status and salivary flow rate.

Modeer T. et al. (2011) afirman que en las poblaciones de adolescentes obesos existe asociacion entre reduccion de tasa de flujo salival y caries. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la asociacion entre el estado nutricional, la tasa de flujo salival y el riesgo de caries en preescolares. Se estudiaron 60 ninos de 3 a 6 anos de edad, que concurrian a Jardines de Infantes del conurbano de la ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina. En este grupo de ninos se midio el peso corporal y la talla. Se calculo el indice de masa corporal y se categorizo antropometricamente a la poblacion segun OMS 2007. (Programa WHO Anthro). Se determino el riesgo de caries. La saliva se recolecto en frascos esteriles, graduados, de boca ancha sin estimulacion y sin restricciones alimentarias. Se determino la tasa de flujo salival (TFS). El analisis estadistico se realizo con el Test de Pearson. Presentaron caries el 56.7% (IC95%: 37.7-74.0) de los ninos adecuados (Ad) antropometricamente y el 37.0% (IC95%: 20.1-57.5) de los ninos con sobrepeso y obesidad (SP/O). El odds ratio para caries (OR=3.78; IC95%: 1.2-11.8, p=0.02) fue casi 4 veces mayor en los ninos Ad, comparados con los SP/O. La TFS fue 0.534 0.318 ml/min en Ad y 0.439 0.234 ml/min en SP/O. El test de Pearson no evidencio correlacion entre la TFS y el estado nutricional (r=0.004592, p=0.5977). A pesar que los ninos con sobrepeso y obesidad tienen menor presencia de caries no se encontro correlacion entre el estado nutricional y tasa de flujo salival.

Introduction: Housing interventions aimed at overcoming poverty can lead to changes in the health status of children by modifying risk factors in their physical and social environment Objective: the aim was to identify children's environmental health factors to change with the relocation of families from slums to public housing. Subjects and method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in children ages 2-8 years old of families relocated to public housing (n=115) who were compared to children residing in slums (n=88) in Santiago, Chile. Family socioeconomic characteristics, indoor environment and neighborhoods were collected. It was included respiratory symptoms, accidents and maternal-child care of children. x², Fisher and Mann-Whitney test were used to compare groups. Results: There were differences in households related to pets keeping, presence of humidity/molds in homes, types of fuels, and perceived safety problems in neighborhoods (p<0.05). The families from slums reported higher tenancy of pets (73.8% v/s 32.2%%), humidity/molds in homes (43.,2% v/s 18.3%), use of wood for heating (39.8% v/s 0.0%), compared with families of public housing. Residents of public housing perceived more safety problems in neighborhood, and children have more asthma related symptoms and have lower diversity of accidents in home. Conclusion: Among the factors studied, indoor air quality and safety in neighborhoods could be linked to changes from the relocation of families. This reinforces the need to deepen the positive and negative influences of residential mobility of these groups focused on child welfare perspective.

Introducción: Intervenciones habitacionales destinadas a superar la pobreza pueden generar cambios en la situación de salud de la población infantil, modificando factores de riesgo en el entorno físico y social de niños y niñas. El objetivo fue identificar indicadores de salud ambiental infantil susceptibles de ser modificados con la reubicación de familias desde campamentos a vivienda social. Sujetos y método: Estudio transversal en niños de 2-8 años. Se comparó dos grupos de familias provenientes de campamentos. Un grupo fueron familias reubicadas en viviendas sociales entre 2001 y 2002 (n = 115). El otro grupo corresponde a niños cuyas familias permanecieron en campamentos (n = 88) de la zona poniente de Santiago. Se recolectó información sobre: características socioeconómicas, ambiente intradomiciliario y de barrios, y eventos en salud: síntomas respiratorios, accidentabilidad y cuidado materno infantil. Se emplearon pruebas de x², Fisher y Mann-Whitney para la comparación de los grupos. Resultados: Se identifican diferencias entre los grupos comparados en relación a la tenencia de mascotas, presencia de hongos/humedad en el hogar, tipo de combustibles utilizados y problemas de seguridad percibidos en los barrios (p<0,05). Las familias de campamentos reportan una mayor tenencia de mascotas (73,8% v/s 32,2%%), presencia de huellas de humedad/hongos en el hogar (43,2% v/s 18,3%), uso de leña (39,8% v/s 0,0%), en comparación con familias de viviendas sociales. Residentes de viviendas sociales perciben mayores problemas de seguridad en el barrio, mientras que los niños presentan mayor frecuencia de síntomas relacionados con asma y menor diversidad de accidentes en el hogar comparado con el grupo residente en campamentos. Conclusiones: Entre los factores estudiados, aquellos susceptibles de ser modificados con la reubicación de familias desde campamentos a vivienda social se vinculan a indicadores de calidad del aire interior y seguridad en los barrios. Lo anterior refuerza la necesidad de profundizar en las influencias positivas y negativas de la movilidad residencial de estos grupos, desde una perspectiva centrada en el bienestar infantil.

Objective: To describe pesticide concentrations in distinct environmental matrices at two time points (low and high seasons in local agricultural production) and to estimate the association between the presence of pesticide residues in matrices and the use of pesticides in the home with the sociodemographic variables of schoolchildren in the Province of Talca, Chile. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 190 schoolchildren. Families were surveyed about their children's vegetable consumption in school and at home, the use of pesticides in the home, and other sociodemographic variables. Additionally, we measured pesticide residues in vegetables and water consumed by the schoolchildren and in the soil of 14 schools. Results: At both time points, the vegetable matrix had the highest pesticide concentration, both in urban and rural schoolchildren. The most common pesticide residues in vegetables were chlorpyrifos, diphenylamine, pyrimethanil, and thiabendazole. In the home, pyrethroid and organophosphate pesticides were mainly used in summer. Dangerous pesticide residues such as azinphos methyl and dimethoate were found in vegetables consumed by the children in schools and households, and organochlorines were found in the soil in some schools. Conclusions: Pesticide exposure should be limited and the health effects related to pesticide exposure should be assessed in the school population.

Objetivo: Describir la concentración de plaguicidas en diferentes matrices ambientales en dos períodos de tiempo (baja y alta producción agrícola local) y estimar la asociación entre la presencia de residuos de plaguicidas en las matrices y su uso en el hogar con variables sociodemográficas de escolares de la Provincia de Talca. Métodos: Estudio de diseño transversal en 190 escolares. Se encuestó a las familias para conocer el consumo de vegetales de los escolares en la escuela y en el hogar, el uso de plaguicidas en el hogar y otras variables sociodemográficas. También se midieron los residuos de plaguicidas en vegetales y agua consumidos por los escolares y en el suelo de 14 escuelas. Resultados: La matriz vegetal presenta la mayor concentración de residuos en ambos períodos de tiempo, tanto en escolares urbanos como rurales. Los residuos de plaguicidas más frecuentes en los vegetales fueron clorpirifos, difenilamina, pirimetanil y tiabendazol. En los hogares se usan principalmente piretroides y organofosforados en la época de verano. Se encontraron residuos de plaguicidas peligrosos, como azinfos metil y dimetoato, en vegetales consumidos por los escolares en las escuelas y hogares, y de organoclorados en el suelo de algunas escuelas. Conclusiones: Se sugiere elaborar propuestas de prevención y control de la exposición a plaguicidas en la población escolar, y evaluar los efectos en la salud de los escolares.

Objective: To describe pesticide concentrations in distinct environmental matrices at two time points (low and high seasons in local agricultural production) and to estimate the association between the presence of pesticide residues in matrices and the use of pesticides in the home with the sociodemographic variables of schoolchildren in the Province of Talca, Chile. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 190 schoolchildren. Families were surveyed about their children's vegetable consumption in school and at home, the use of pesticides in the home, and other sociodemographic variables. Additionally, we measured pesticide residues in vegetables and water consumed by the schoolchildren and in the soil of 14 schools. Results: At both time points, the vegetable matrix had the highest pesticide concentration, both in urban and rural schoolchildren. The most common pesticide residues in vegetables were chlorpyrifos, diphenylamine, pyrimethanil, and thiabendazole. In the home, pyrethroid and organophosphate pesticides were mainly used in summer. Dangerous pesticide residues such as azinphos methyl and dimethoate were found in vegetables consumed by the children in schools and households, and organochlorines were found in the soil in some schools. Conclusions: Pesticide exposure should be limited and the health effects related to pesticide exposure should be assessed in the school population.

Objetivo: Describir la concentración de plaguicidas en diferentes matrices ambientales en dos períodos de tiempo (baja y alta producción agrícola local) y estimar la asociación entre la presencia de residuos de plaguicidas en las matrices y su uso en el hogar con variables sociodemográficas de escolares de la Provincia de Talca. Métodos: Estudio de diseño transversal en 190 escolares. Se encuestó a las familias para conocer el consumo de vegetales de los escolares en la escuela y en el hogar, el uso de plaguicidas en el hogar y otras variables sociodemográficas. También se midieron los residuos de plaguicidas en vegetales y agua consumidos por los escolares y en el suelo de 14 escuelas. Resultados: La matriz vegetal presenta la mayor concentración de residuos en ambos períodos de tiempo, tanto en escolares urbanos como rurales. Los residuos de plaguicidas más frecuentes en los vegetales fueron clorpirifos, difenilamina, pirimetanil y tiabendazol. En los hogares se usan principalmente piretroides y organofosforados en la época de verano. Se encontraron residuos de plaguicidas peligrosos, como azinfos metil y dimetoato, en vegetales consumidos por los escolares en las escuelas y hogares, y de organoclorados en el suelo de algunas escuelas. Conclusiones: Se sugiere elaborar propuestas de prevención y control de la exposición a plaguicidas en la población escolar, y evaluar los efectos en la salud de los escolares.

Background: Secondhand smoke (SHS) is an established cause of morbidity and mortality among non-smokers. The workplace is an important source of exposure, especially among workers of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Aim: To estimate the daily occupational exposure to SHS among non-smoking workers of bars and restaurants of Santiago, Chile. Material and Methods: Environmental vapor-phase nico-tine was measured for 95 non-smoking workers of bars and restaurants of Santiago, using passive personal samplers during a daily work shift and outside the workplace. Results: The median occupational exposure to air nicotine was 9.18 µg/m³ (P25-P75 3.15-25.67 µg/m³). Higher concentrations were found among workers of places with no smoking restrictions (22.72 µg/m³; P25-P75 5.73-34.85 µg/m³), bar workers (20.75 µg/m³, P25-P75 5.03-44.67 µg/m³), waiters (20.57 µg/m³, PP25-P75 5.66-42.73 µg/m3) and bartenders (10.37 µg/m³, P25-P75 9.75-25.67 µg/m³). The median concentration of nicotine outside the workplace was 1.79 µg/m³ (P25-P75 1.02-3.00 µg/m³). Occupational exposure was 4.77 times higher compared to the non-work exposure. Conclusions: Workers of bars and restaurants are exposed to high levels of SHS at the workplace. Moreover, occupational exposure among these non-smoking workers is, in most cases, the main source of daily exposure to this pollutant.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between early tobacco and alcohol use and the risk of marijuana consumption among schoolchildren. METHODS: A cross-sectional study comprising data from the Fourth National Study on Drug Use in the Chilean School Population (2001). There were studied 54,001 schoolchildren aged between eight and 20 years. Predictors were self-reported tobacco and alcohol use (ever users), age at initiation of tobacco and/or alcohol use, and intensity of tobacco use. The study outcome was self-reported marijuana use (ever users versus never users) and age at initiation of marijuana use. Poisson regression and Weibull regression were used for data analysis. RESULTS: Lifetime prevalence of tobacco use was high: 77%, alcohol 79%, and marijuana 23%. Tobacco consumption increased the likelihood of marijuana use (PR=10.4; 95% CI: 8.9;12.2). Later initiation of tobacco (HR=0.85; 95% CI: 0.84;0.86) and alcohol (HR=0.90; 95% CI: 0.89;0.91) decreased the risk of marijuana use. Marijuana use was higher in heavy smokers compared to light smokers (PR=3.11; 95% CI: 2.96;3.26 versus PR=1.70; 95% CI: 1.58;1.83). CONCLUSIONS: Tobacco use is strongly associated with marijuana use, which is significantly associated with the age at initiation of tobacco use, intensity of tobacco use and concurrent use of alcohol. Prevention strategies should target prevention of adolescent early tobacco use.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la relación entre consumo precoz de tabaco y alcohol y el riesgo de consumir marihuana en escolares. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal con datos del IV Estudio Nacional de Consumo de Drogas en Población Escolar, año 2001. Se analizó 54,001 escolares de ocho a 20 años de edad. Como variables predictoras se consideró el autoreporte de consumo de tabaco y alcohol, la edad de inicio de consumo de tabaco y/o alcohol, y la intensidad de uso del tabaco. Como variable resultado se utilizó el autoreporte de uso de marihuana y la edad de inicio de consumo de ésta. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó regresión de Poisson y regresión de Weibull. RESULTADOS: Los escolares presentaron alta prevalencia de consumo de tabaco, alcohol y marihuana (77%, 79% y 23% respectivamente). El consumo de tabaco en presencia de consumo de alcohol fue un factor de riesgo de uso de marihuana (RP=10.4; IC 95%: 8.9;12.2). El inicio tardío de consumo de tabaco (HR=0.85; IC 95%: 0.84;0.86) y alcohol (HR=0.90; IC 95%: 0.89;0.91) resultó ser un factor protector del uso de marihuana. La probabilidad de consumo de marihuana fue mayor en quienes fumaban todos o casi todos los días en relación a quienes fumaban sólo los fines de semana (RP=3.11; IC 95%: 2.96;3.26 vs. RP=1.70; IC 95%: 1.58;1.83). CONCLUSIONES: El riesgo de consumo de marihuana se asoció significativamente con la edad de inicio de consumo de tabaco, la frecuencia de consumo de tabaco y el consumo simultáneo de alcohol. Las estrategias de prevención deberían orientarse a evitar el consumo precoz de tabaco en escolares.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a relação entre consumo precoce de tabaco e álcool e o risco de consumir maconha por escolares. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com dados do IV Estudio Nacional de Consumo de Drogas en Población Escolar, ano 2001 no Chile. Analisaram-se 54.001 escolares de oito a 20 anos de idade. As variáveis preditoras consideradas foram: consumo de tabaco e álcool, a idade de início de consumo de tabaco e/ou álcool e a intensidade de uso de tabaco. Uso de maconha e idade de início do consumo foram as variáveis de desfecho. Para a análise dos dados se utilizou regressão de Poisson e regressão de Weibull. RESULTADOS: Os escolares apresentaram alta prevalência de consumo de tabaco, álcool maconha (77%, 79% e 23%, respectivamente). O consumo de tabaco na presença de consumo de álcool foi um fator de risco de uso de maconha (RP=10,4; IC 95%: 8,9;12,2). O início tardio de consumo de tabaco (HR=0,85; IC 95%: 0,84;0,86) e álcool (HR=0,90; IC 95%: 0,89;0,91) resultou ser um fator protetor do uso de maconha. A probabilidade de consumo de maconha foi maior naqueles que fumavam diariamente ou quase, em relação àqueles que fumavam somente aos fins de semana (RP=3,11; IC 95%: 2,96;3,26 vs. RP=1,70; IC 95%: 1,58;1,83). CONCLUSÕES: O risco de consumo de maconha se associou significativamente à idade de início de consumo de tabaco, à freqüência de consumo de tabaco e ao consumo simultâneo de álcool. As estratégias de prevenção deveriam proteger os escolares do consumo precoce de tabaco.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a relação entre consumo precoce de tabaco e álcool e o risco de consumir maconha por escolares. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com dados do IV Estudio Nacional de Consumo de Drogas en Población Escolar, ano 2001 no Chile. Analisaram-se 54.001 escolares de oito a 20 anos de idade. As variáveis preditoras consideradas foram: consumo de tabaco e álcool, a idade de início de consumo de tabaco e/ou álcool e a intensidade de uso de tabaco. Uso de maconha e idade de início do consumo foram as variáveis de desfecho. Para a análise dos dados se utilizou regressão de Poisson e regressão de Weibull. RESULTADOS: Os escolares apresentaram alta prevalência de consumo de tabaco, álcool maconha (77%, 79% e 23%, respectivamente). O consumo de tabaco na presença de consumo de álcool foi um fator de risco de uso de maconha (RP=10,4; IC 95%: 8,9;12,2). O início tardio de consumo de tabaco (HR=0,85; IC 95%: 0,84;0,86) e álcool (HR=0,90; IC 95%: 0,89;0,91) resultou ser um fator protetor do uso de maconha. A probabilidade de consumo de maconha foi maior naqueles que fumavam diariamente ou quase, em relação àqueles que fumavam somente aos fins de semana (RP=3,11; IC 95%: 2,96;3,26 vs. RP=1,70; IC 95%: 1,58;1,83). CONCLUSÕES: O risco de consumo de maconha se associou significativamente à idade de início de consumo de tabaco, à freqüência de consumo de tabaco e ao consumo simultâneo de álcool. As estratégias de prevenção deveriam proteger os escolares do consumo precoce de tabaco.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between early tobacco and alcohol use and the risk of marijuana consumption among schoolchildren. METHODS: A cross-sectional study comprising data from the Fourth National Study on Drug Use in the Chilean School Population (2001). There were studied 54,001 schoolchildren aged between eight and 20 years. Predictors were self-reported tobacco and alcohol use (ever users), age at initiation of tobacco and/or alcohol use, and intensity of tobacco use. The study outcome was self-reported marijuana use (ever users versus never users) and age at initiation of marijuana use. Poisson regression and Weibull regression were used for data analysis. RESULTS: Lifetime prevalence of tobacco use was high: 77%, alcohol 79%, and marijuana 23%. Tobacco consumption increased the likelihood of marijuana use (PR=10.4; 95% CI: 8.9;12.2). Later initiation of tobacco (HR=0.85; 95% CI: 0.84;0.86) and alcohol (HR=0.90; 95% CI: 0.89;0.91) decreased the risk of marijuana use. Marijuana use was higher in heavy smokers compared to light smokers (PR=3.11; 95% CI: 2.96;3.26 versus PR=1.70; 95% CI: 1.58;1.83). CONCLUSIONS: Tobacco use is strongly associated with marijuana use, which is significantly associated with the age at initiation of tobacco use, intensity of tobacco use and concurrent use of alcohol. Prevention strategies should target prevention of adolescent early tobacco use.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la relación entre consumo precoz de tabaco y alcohol y el riesgo de consumir marihuana en escolares. MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal con datos del IV Estudio Nacional de Consumo de Drogas en Población Escolar, año 2001. Se analizó 54,001 escolares de ocho a 20 años de edad. Como variables predictoras se consideró el autoreporte de consumo de tabaco y alcohol, la edad de inicio de consumo de tabaco y/o alcohol, y la intensidad de uso del tabaco. Como variable resultado se utilizó el autoreporte de uso de marihuana y la edad de inicio de consumo de ésta. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó regresión de Poisson y regresión de Weibull. RESULTADOS: Los escolares presentaron alta prevalencia de consumo de tabaco, alcohol y marihuana (77%, 79% y 23% respectivamente). El consumo de tabaco en presencia de consumo de alcohol fue un factor de riesgo de uso de marihuana (RP=10.4; IC 95%: 8.9;12.2). El inicio tardío de consumo de tabaco (HR=0.85; IC 95%: 0.84;0.86) y alcohol (HR=0.90; IC 95%: 0.89;0.91) resultó ser un factor protector del uso de marihuana. La probabilidad de consumo de marihuana fue mayor en quienes fumaban todos o casi todos los días en relación a quienes fumaban sólo los fines de semana (RP=3.11; IC 95%: 2.96;3.26 vs. RP=1.70; IC 95%: 1.58;1.83). CONCLUSIONES: El riesgo de consumo de marihuana se asoció significativamente con la edad de inicio de consumo de tabaco, la frecuencia de consumo de tabaco y el consumo simultáneo de alcohol. Las estrategias de prevención deberían orientarse a evitar el consumo precoz de tabaco en escolares.

This study reports the data recorded from four patients intoxicated with shellfish during the summer 2002, after consuming ribbed mussels (Aulacomya ater) with paralytic shellfish toxin contents of 8,066 ± 61.37 mg/100 gr of tissue. Data associated with clinical variables and paralytic shellfish toxins analysis in plasma and urine of the intoxicated patients are shown. For this purpose, the evolution of respiratory frequency, arterial blood pressure and heart rate of the poisoned patients were followed and recorded. The clinical treatment to reach a clinically stable condition and return to normal physiological parameters was a combination of hydration with saline solution supplemented with Dobutamine (vasoactive drug), Furosemide (diuretic) and Ranitidine (inhibitor of acid secretion). The physiological condition of patients began to improve after four hours of clinical treatment, and a stable condition was reached between 12 to 24 hours. The HPLC-FLD analysis showed only the GTX3/GTX2 epimers in the blood and urine samples. Also, these epimers were the only paralytic shellfish toxins found in the shellfish extract sample