Time Trends in Serum Organochlorine Pesticides and Polychlorinated Biphenyls in the General Population of Biscay, Spain

Despite the measures adopted, levels of organochlorine compounds (OCs) are still being detected in the human body. This study aimed to explore factors related to changes in the concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and pesticide OCs in blood samples obtained from a general population cohort. Two cross-sectional samples were taken from 162 adults (2–75 years of age), with a gap of 2 years, from four areas in Biscay (Spain). More than 75 % had quantifiable levels of hexachlorobenzene (HCB), beta-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, and PCBs 138 153 and 180. During this time, significant changes were observed: PCB 180 and HCB levels increased, and PCB 138 and β-HCH levels decreased. Regarding age, this study shows a decrease suggesting a cohort effect. The period was not related to the decrease of levels in all age intervals, but a statistically significant increase of PCBs in older people was found. High body mass index was associated with lower PCB 180 levels and greater HCH levels. Inversely, greater levels of HCB and β-HCH were in those who had lost weight before the study. Levels of HCB and β-HCH were also greater in women who had had children, although they were lower in those who breastfed. Levels of these same OCs were greater in fish consumers, whereas those of PCBs 138 and 153 were greater in those who consumed local produce; all of these trends were close to significance. Efforts should continue to decrease exposure to these pollutants and to assess their influence on general population.