Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers and Biphenyl in Serum: Time Trend Study from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for Years 2005/06 through 2013/14

Abstract

Eleven polybrominated diphenyl ether (tri- to deca-BDE) congeners and 2,2′,4,4′,5,5′-hexabromobiphenyl (BB153) have been measured in pooled serum samples from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for one decade (from survey years 2005/06 through 2013/14). The pools, which are representative of the general noninstitutionalized population of the United States, encompassed thirty-two demographic groups defined by sex, race/ethnicity (Mexican American, non-Hispanic black, non-Hispanic white, and all other race/ethnicities), and age (12–19, >20–39, >40–59, and ≥60 years). The adjusted geometric means were determined in a multiple linear regression model for the six congeners (BDE28, BDE47, BDE99, BDE100, BDE153, and BB153) with detectable concentrations in at least 60% of pools in each of the thirty-two demographic groups; the level of significance for all statistical comparisons thereof were determined. BDE154 and BDE209 were detected in 60% of the NHANES 2011/12 and 2013/14 pools; only these two survey periods were evaluated for these congeners. The percent change in concentration by a 2-year survey period was calculated. All examined PBDEs reported in five survey periods decreased in concentration, except BDE153, for which concentrations increased by 12.0% (95% CI 7.1–16.4) and 8.4% (95% CI 2.9–14.1) for the age groups 40–59 and ≥60 years, respectively; no significant change was observed in younger age groups. Excluding BDE153, we observed larger percentage decreases by a 2-year survey period for the age groups 12–19, 20–39, and ≥60 years compared with the age group 40–59 years. The percentage decrease by a two-year survey period ranged between −19.6% (BDE99, 20–39 years old) and −4.5% (BDE100, 40–59 years old). Although five polybrominated diphenyl ether (PDBE) congeners and BB153 are still frequently detected in the U.S. general population, PBDE concentrations have decreased since 2005–2006, likely, because of changes in manufacturing practices that started in the mid-2000s.