Citizens’ Perception and Concerns on Chemical Exposures and Human Biomonitoring—Results from a Harmonized Qualitative Study in Seven European Countries.
Journal
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Date Issued
2022-05-25
Author(s)
Matisane Linda
Knudsen E Lisbeth
Lobo Vincente Joana
Uhl Maria
Katsonouri Andromachi
D van den Brand Annick
Berman Tamar
Anastasi Eleni
Thoma Anthi
Kozepesy Szilvia
Borota Popovska Mirjana
P den Braver-Sewradj Shalenie
Szigeti Tamas
Topuzovska Latkovikj Marija
Martinsone Inese
Akulova Lasma
Paegle Linda
DOI
10.3390/ijerph19116414
Abstract
Exposure to different chemicals is an inevitable part of our everyday lives. Within HBM4EU, focus group discussions were conducted to gather data on citizens' perceptions of chemical exposure and human biomonitoring. These discussions were hosted in Cyprus, Denmark, Hungary, Israel, Latvia, the Netherlands, and North Macedonia following a protocol developed in the first round of discussions. Results indicate the very high concern of European citizens regarding food safety and the environment. Focus group participants were well aware of potential uptake of chemicals through food consumption (e.g., preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring agents, pesticides, fertilizers, metals), drinking water, or from polluted air and water. One of the positive aspects identified here, is the high interest of citizens in awareness and education on personal measures to control exposure. The promotion of personal behavioral changes requires active involvement of society (e.g., commuting habits, energy choices, waste disposal, dietary habits). Activities should focus on raising awareness of the general public, implementation of policy measures, and mainstreaming of related topics into the education system. Raising awareness of the general public may promote engagement of citizens, which in turn may empower them to put pressure on politicians to take effective actions. There is also a need for further research which might focus on the impact of country-specific situations and of the COVID-19 pandemic on the exposure of citizens to chemicals.
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ijerph-19-06414.pdf
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Citizens’ Perception and Concerns on Chemical Exposures and Human Biomonitoring—Results from a Harmonized Qualitative Study in Seven European Countries
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