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Alberta Biomonitoring Program: Chemicals in Serum of Pregnant Women and Children in Alberta

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Biomonitoring provides a measure of internal doses of environmental chemicals or agents and allows for a more accurate measure of human health risk from these exposures. In these Alberta... More ≫

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Biomonitoring provides a measure of internal doses of environmental chemicals or agents and allows for a more accurate measure of human health risk from these exposures. In these Alberta Biomonitoring Program datasets, information was collected as part of 3 province-wide studies investigating the serum levels of environmental chemicals (both natural and synthetic) in pregnant women in northern, central and southern Alberta (Phase 1), in children in southern Alberta (Phase 2), and maternal and umbilical cord blood samples from 7 Alberta cities (Phase 3). The goals of the program are to create a benchmark against which to track future exposures, provide a starting point for assessing health risks, indicate possible exposure sources and prioritize research efforts. Chemicals targeted for monitoring were selected using expert guidance and review of similar studies. For Phases 1 and 2, results for each chemical are presented in a single column, as either whole serum or lipid-adjusted...

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Cyanobacterial blooms in Alberta recreational waters

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Cyanobacteria (also referred to as blue-green algae) are common photosynthetic bacteria that live in surface waters. Under favorable conditions, such as warm water and high nutrient content, these... More ≫

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Cyanobacteria (also referred to as blue-green algae) are common photosynthetic bacteria that live in surface waters. Under favorable conditions, such as warm water and high nutrient content, these bacteria can form nuisance “blooms”. The presence of blooms in recreational water causes unpleasant aesthetics and exposure to some toxin-producing blooms may pose potential health risks. Contact with blooms can cause skin rashes and irritation, itchy eyes, and ear infections. Inhaling water may cause allergic-like reactions, runny noses or sore throats. Ingestion of toxins can cause a range of symptoms (e.g., hepatotoxic or neurotoxic effects, and even death). There has been increased public awareness as a result of research over the past 20 years, recent monitoring efforts, and increased public education on the topic. In 2009, Alberta Health and Alberta Health Services began seasonal monitoring for cyanobacterial blooms at high use recreational beaches. In 2019, beach operators took over...

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Domestic Well Water Quality in Alberta - Trace Elements

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In rural Alberta, 90 per cent of people use private well water supplies for domestic use (e.g., drinking, cooking, bathing). Domestic well water systems are not regulated by the provincial or... More ≫

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In rural Alberta, 90 per cent of people use private well water supplies for domestic use (e.g., drinking, cooking, bathing). Domestic well water systems are not regulated by the provincial or federal governments. The Government of Alberta along with Alberta Health Services (AHS) provides water chemistry testing of private well water and information and advice on safe water for domestic purposes; however, it is the responsibility of well owners to ensure the quality and safety of their water supply. Water quality may be impacted by contamination from natural sources or human activities and cause noticeable aesthetic issues or potential health concerns. Water samples are collected and submitted by well owners through local AHS sites for analysis of routine chemistry and trace element parameters. Routine chemistry testing focuses on the suitability of the water for drinking and household use with two health-related parameters. For trace elements, testing used to be conducted only when...

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