POLLUTION AND HEALTH

  Osteoporosis, Aflatoxins and Plastics: Biological Interactions, Population Risks and Policy Position Abstract Osteoporosis, a progressive bone-loss disorder characterized by reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and increased fracture risk, is shaped by nutritional, hormonal, environmental and toxicological factors. While classically associated with ageing, calcium/vitamin D deficiencies, menopause and lifestyle factors, emerging evidence suggests that chronic exposures to aflatoxins and plastic-associated chemicals (phthalates, bisphenols, PFAS) may influence bone health through endocrine disruption, oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways, and impaired nutrient absorption. This paper synthesizes current biological, epidemiological and toxicological evidence linking these exposures to bone degeneration and presents an integrated policy position targeting risk reduction, surveillance, and environmental controls, especially for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Keywords: ...

  Aflatoxicosis, Ageing and Plastics: Interactions, Health Impacts and Policy Responses Abstract Background: This paper examines current evidence linking aflatoxin exposure and plastic-associated chemical exposures (including but not limited to phthalates, bisphenols, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — PFAS) to accelerated biological ageing and age-related health outcomes. We synthesize epidemiological, toxicological, mechanistic and policy literature to describe potential synergistic effects, vulnerable populations, exposure pathways (food contamination, packaging, environmental pollution), and socio-economic drivers. Building on this synthesis, we propose an integrated research agenda and a set of policy recommendations tailored to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with emphasis on sub-Saharan Africa, for prevention, surveillance, remediation and regulatory action. Keywords: aflatoxins, plastics, PFAS, phthalates, bisphenol A, ageing, oxidative stress, epigenetics...

  Footwear, Osteoporosis & Ageing: Evidence-Based Guidance and Policy Implications Abstract Osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures among older adults, especially following falls. Footwear is a modifiable factor that influences gait, balance and slip/trip risk. This paper examines biomechanical, epidemiological and policy-relevant evidence linking footwear design to fall and fracture risk in ageing populations, and provides recommendations (“dos and don’ts”) and policy interventions to reduce fragility-fracture burden. 1. Introduction Ageing populations face increased prevalence of osteoporosis and fragility fractures. Bone fragility combines with impaired proprioception, reduced muscle strength, and slower reaction times to elevate fall risk (Cooper et al., 2011). Because most fractures in older adults result from ground-level falls, fall-prevention strategies — including proper footwear — are vital. Footwear affects gait biomechanics, balance, stability, plantar pr...

  Metabolic Disorders, Ageing and Aflatoxicosis  Abstract Chronic exposure to aflatoxins — particularly Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and its metabolites such as Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) — remains a major public-health threat in many low- and middle-income countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and other tropical regions. While the carcinogenicity of aflatoxins (notably hepatocellular carcinoma and liver cirrhosis) is well established, increasing evidence suggests that aflatoxin exposure may also contribute to metabolic disorders (e.g. type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD] / metabolically associated steatotic liver disease [MASLD]), influence growth and development in early life, and may have long-term effects on biological ageing, metabolic resilience, and organ-system health. The mechanisms appear to involve disruption of liver metabolism, gut-microbiota alterations, inflammation, oxidative stress, endocrine and signalling perturbations, and ...