Purpose: New York State Department of Health has issued health advisories regarding consumption of fish and shellfish caught from polluted, local waters. The goal is to minimize exposure to neurotoxins, such as, mercury, polychorinated phenyls (PCBs), dioxins and pesticide residues. Fetal exposure causes cognitive developmental deficits in children. The method of cooking fish can reduce exposure to these neurotoxins, including, removing the skin and internal organs and baking or broiling. Methods: 220 WIC (Special Supplemental Nutritional Program for Women, Infants and Children) participants were surveyed. Education was provided summarizing the health advisory via a fact sheet. The participants were asked where fish and crabs were purchased; if family or friends caught them from local waters; how they were cooked; and knowledge of the health advisory. Results: 91% of the participants and 2/3 of their children reported eating fish. 96% of the participants were Hispanic and Black. Hispanic participants ate more fish and crabs. 2/3 of the participants reported eating fish at least 2 times/month (0->8 times/month). 12% of the participants ate fish caught in local waters. 19% of the women were pregnant and 5% were post-partum and breastfeeding. Many of the participants were frying the fish with the skin on the fish. 72% of participants were not aware of the health advisory. Conclusion: Locally caught fish is consumed, thus in utero and childhood exposure to these neurotoxins occurs. Interventions to promote safer choices and preparation of fish and shellfish are needed.
Learning Objectives: 1. Identify neurotoxins found locally-caught fish in New York City. 2. Recognize preventive measures to reduce exposure to neurotoxins. 3. Describe the effects of neurotoxins on children's health
Keywords: Environmental Exposures, WIC
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.