Serum concentrations of p,p′-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (p,p′-DDE) in a sample of agricultural workers from Bolivia

Organochlorine pesticide p,p′-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) is still used for vector control in several tropical and subtropical areas of South America and there is evidence of recent illegal use in agriculture. Its main breakdown product in the environment and living organisms is p,p′-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p′-DDE), which is considered a marker of past exposure to DDT. The aim of the present study was to assess human exposure to p,p′-DDE in a sample of agricultural farmers from three rural communities in eastern Bolivia. In addition, o,p′-DDT was analyzed as a surrogate of a potential ongoing exposure to the pesticide.Face-to-face questionnaires were performed, and serum samples were analyzed by high-resolution gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. p,p′-DDE was found in 100% of the samples, with a median concentration of 19.7 ng mL−1 (4788.7 ng/g lipid), while o,p′-DDT was detected in 3 samples (4.3%).Serum p,p′-DDE concentrations were associated with time of residence in the study area, personal hygiene after work, and body mass index in adjusted multinomial logistic regression models with tertiles of p,p′-DDE as the dependent variable.The present results revealed high levels of exposure to p,p′-DDE, which might be derived from a heavily polluted local environment and past occupational exposure. These findings deserve further attention due to the potential associated health risks and point to the need for the continuous monitoring of these populations.

► Serum p,p′-DDE and o,p′-DDT were quantified in 70 agricultural workers.
► p,p′-DDE showed a median concentration of 19.7 ng mL−1 (4788.7 ng/g lipid).
► o,p′-DDT was only detected in 3 samples (4.3%).
► p,p′-DDE was associated with time of residence, hygiene habit and body mass index.