Berylliosis
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Investigators at University of California publish new data on berylliosis
2009 JUN 30 - (NewsRx.com) -- According to a study from the United States, "Understanding the progression from beryllium exposure (BeE) to chronic beryllium disease (CBD) is essential for optimizing screening and early intervention to prevent CBD. We developed an analytic Markov model of progression to CBD that assigns annual probabilities for progression through three states: from BeE to beryllium sensitization and then to CBD." "We used calculations of the number in each state over time to assess which of several alternative progression models are most consistent with the limited available empirical data on prevalence and incidence. We estimated cost-effectiveness of screening considering both incremental (cost/case) and cumulative program costs. No combination of parameters for a simple model in which risk of progression remains constant over time can meet the empirical constraints of relatively frequent early cases and continuing development of new cases with long latencies. Modeling shows that the risk of progression is initially high and then declines over time. Also, it is likely that there are at least two populations that differ significantly in risk. The cost-effectiveness of repetitive screening declines over time, although new cases will still be found with long latencies. However, screening will be particularly cost-effective when applied to persons with long latencies who have not been previously screened. To optimize use of resources, the intensity of screening should decrease over time," wrote P. Harber and colleagues, University of California. The researchers concluded: "Estimation of lifetime cumulative CBD risk should consider the declining risk of progression over time." Harber and colleagues published the results of their research in Environmental Health Perspectives (Progression from Beryllium Exposure to Chronic Beryllium Disease: An Analytic Model. Environmental Health Perspectives, 2009;117(6):970-974). For additional information, contact P. Harber, University of California, Dept. of Family Medical, Division Occupational & Environmental Medical, 10880 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1800, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA. The publisher of the journal Environmental Health Perspectives can be contacted at: Us Dept. Health Human Sciences Public Health Science, National Institute Health, National Institute Environmental Health Sciences, PO Box 12233, Research Triangle Pk, NC 27709-2233, USA. Keywords: United States, Los Angeles, Berylliosis, Environmental Health, University of California. This article was prepared by Life Science Weekly editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2009, Life Science Weekly via NewsRx.com.
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