Pollution and human biology.
Industrial pollution is a relatively new component of the environment of humans and may constitute biological challenges to human adaptation. Extensive laboratory research shows that many pollutants are capable of modifying physiological systems in mammals. Studies of human populations provide substantial evidence that some pollutants can affect biological outcomes of traditional interest to human biologists (e.g. mortality, morbidity, growth, reproduction). Air pollution has been linked to increases in mortality and morbidity, and specific pollutants such as lead and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have been associated with decreases in measures of sperm quality, changes in the character of menses, increased obesity and diabetes, and altered rates of sexual maturation, as well as other effects. However, the evidence is far from homogeneous. Nevertheless, to achieve the comprehensive and holistic approach characteristic of human biological research, investigators should include measures of pollutant exposure in their multicausal models.
Schell
Lawrence M
LM
Department of Anthropology, University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA. LMSchell@albany.edu
Burnitz
Kristopher K
KK
Lathrop
Patrick W
PW
D000220:Adaptation, Biological; D000393:Air Pollutants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005075:Biological Evolution; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D007221:Industry; D007246:Infertility / Q000139:chemically induced; D009765:Obesity / Q000209:etiology; D011084:Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000032:analysis; D012307:Risk Factors; D012741:Sexual Maturation / Q000502:physiology
D000393:Air Pollutants; D011084:Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons