A global perspective on the influence of environmental exposures on the nervous system

Desire Tshala-Katumbay (), Jean-Claude Mwanza, Diane S. Rohlman, Gladys Maestre and Reinaldo B. Oriá
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Desire Tshala-Katumbay: Oregon Health & Science University
Jean-Claude Mwanza: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA.
Diane S. Rohlman: Occupational and Environmental Health, The University of Iowa
Gladys Maestre: G. H. Sergievsky Center, Columbia University Medical Center
Reinaldo B. Oriá: Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceara

Nature, 2015, vol. 527, issue 7578, S187-S192

Abstract: Abstract Economic transitions in the era of globalization warrant a fresh look at the neurological risks associated with environmental change. These are driven by industrial expansion, transfer and mobility of goods, climate change and population growth. In these contexts, risk of infectious and non-infectious diseases are shared across geographical boundaries. In low- and middle-income countries, the risk of environmentally mediated brain disease is augmented several fold by lack of infrastructure, poor health and safety regulations, and limited measures for environmental protection. Neurological disorders may occur as a result of direct exposure to chemical and/or non-chemical stressors, including but not limited to, ultrafine particulate matters. Individual susceptibilities to exposure-related diseases are modified by genetic, epigenetic and metagenomic factors. The existence of several uniquely exposed populations, including those in the areas surrounding the Niger Delta or north western Amazon oil operations; those working in poorly regulated environments, such as artisanal mining industries; or those, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa, relying on cassava as a staple food, offers invaluable opportunities to advance the current understanding of brain responses to environmental challenges. Increased awareness of the brain disorders that are prevalent in low- and middle-income countries and investments in capacity for further environmental health-related research are positive steps towards improving human health. This article has not been written or reviewed by Nature editors. Nature accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of the information provided.

Date: 2015
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DOI: 10.1038/nature16034

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