Air Manganese Pollution: Understanding The Toxic Air We Breathe

Manganese (Mn) is an essential element for healthy human functioning, particularly for bone health and fat and carbohydrate metabolism. However, overexposure to airborne manganese, which is released as a byproduct of some industrial processes, may be neurotoxic to humans. In November 2011, US EPA researchers conducted a health study of airborne manganese exposure in East Liverpool, Ohio, which indicated that residents were at risk from exposures to airborne manganese. The Ohio EPA identified the S.H. Bell Company, a raw products storage and packaging facility, as the source of the manganese. This prompts the question: what is air manganese air pollution, and how does it affect human health?

Manganese is essential for human health, especially bone health and metabolism

Manganese is a trace mineral that is essential for human health, especially in terms of bone health and metabolism. Manganese is required by the body in small amounts and plays a vital role in the normal functioning of the brain, nervous system, and many enzyme systems. While the body stores up to about 20 mg of manganese in the kidneys, liver, pancreas, and bones, it is also necessary to include manganese in your diet.

Bone Health

Manganese is essential for bone health, including bone development, maintenance, and mineralization. It supports bone mineral density when combined with other nutrients like calcium, zinc, and copper. Human studies have shown that osteoporotic women have lower serum manganese levels than those with normal bone mineral density. Additionally, manganese plays a role in the synthesis of cartilage and bone collagen, contributing to bone strength and flexibility.

Metabolism

Manganese is crucial for the metabolism of nutrients and serves as a cofactor in various chemical processes in the body. It assists in breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol. Manganese also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels and maintaining normal glucose levels. Animal studies indicate that a manganese deficiency can impair insulin action and disrupt blood glucose levels, potentially increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. However, human studies on this topic have shown mixed results.

Other Health Benefits

In addition to its role in bone health and metabolism, manganese offers other health benefits. It may help treat inflammatory disorders, decrease the risk of health conditions like stroke, and contribute to wound healing by promoting collagen formation. Manganese is also essential for thyroid health, as it is necessary for the production of thyroxine, a vital hormone that helps maintain proper metabolism, weight, and organ efficiency.

While manganese is essential for health, exposure to high levels of airborne manganese, such as in industrial settings or contaminated water, can pose health risks. Inhalation of excessive manganese can lead to nervous system effects and neurotoxicity, as seen in studies of workers in mining and welding occupations. Therefore, it is important to maintain a balanced intake of manganese through a varied diet or, if necessary, supplements, as directed by a healthcare professional.

High levels of airborne manganese can be neurotoxic and impact cognitive function

Manganese (Mn) is an essential element for healthy human functioning, particularly for bone health and fat and carbohydrate metabolism. However, overexposure to airborne manganese can lead to negative health outcomes.

In November 2011, US EPA researchers conducted a health study of airborne manganese exposure in East Liverpool, Ohio. The study found that residents were at risk of exposure to airborne manganese and chromium, with the source of these emissions identified as the S.H. Bell Company, a raw products storage and packaging facility.

Previous studies have indicated that inhaling high levels of manganese can lead to nervous system health effects, including neurotoxicity. For example, workplace studies of occupations such as mining and welding have shown that high levels of manganese inhalation can result in nervous system health issues.

Several studies have specifically investigated the impact of airborne manganese exposure on cognitive function. One study examined the cognitive function of adults residing in two towns, Marietta and East Liverpool, Ohio, which have high levels of environmental airborne manganese from industrial sources. The study found significant relationships between manganese exposure and performance on working and visuospatial memory, as well as verbal skills. Another study, which reviewed 18 published studies on the impact of airborne manganese exposure on cognitive and motor functions in adults, found a negative effect on cognitive function, with higher manganese levels associated with poorer scores.

Overall, while manganese is an essential element, high levels of airborne manganese exposure can be neurotoxic and impact cognitive function, particularly in adults with long-term exposure. Further research is needed to fully understand the extent and mechanisms of these effects.

3. Workplace studies show that high levels of manganese inhalation can impact nervous system health

Manganese is a metal that occurs naturally in the air, water, soil, and living systems. While it is an essential mineral required for the functioning of several enzyme families, high levels of exposure to manganese can be toxic to humans. Inhalation is the primary route of exposure to manganese, and it can have adverse effects on the nervous system and respiratory tract.

Workplace studies have shown that inhaling high levels of manganese can lead to nervous system health issues. Occupations that may involve exposure to manganese include mining, welding, alloy production, processing, and work with agrochemicals. Manganese enters the body through inhalation and accumulates in the brain, specifically in the basal ganglia. This accumulation can result in a severe neurological disease called manganism, which causes a range of symptoms, including:

• Generalized feelings of weakness, heaviness, or stiffness in the legs
• Anorexia
• Muscle pain
• Nervousness
• Irritability
• Headache
• Apathy and dullness
• Loss of libido
• Slow or halting speech
• Slow and clumsy movement of the limbs

The behavioral effects of manganese exposure, known as "manganese madness," include nervousness, irritability, aggression, and destructiveness, as well as bizarre compulsive acts such as uncontrollable laughter or crying. These effects appear to be related to the dose and duration of exposure, with mild or unnoticeable effects caused by low but excessive amounts of manganese, and more severe effects occurring with higher exposure levels or longer exposure durations.

Studies have found that individuals living closer to sources of manganese exposure and those with higher exposure indices had lower neuropsychological and motor performance. Fine motor control, particularly of the fingers, hands, and wrists, was consistently affected by manganese exposure. Additionally, populations living near large manganese industries showed an elevated prevalence of Parkinsonian symptoms.

Industrial processes can release manganese into the air, soil, and water

Manganese (Mn) is a naturally occurring mineral and one of the most abundant metals on Earth's surface. It is found in the air, water, and soil. Manganese is essential for human, plant, and animal health, playing a critical role in regulating metabolism, digestion, reproduction, and neuronal health.

However, industrial processes can release manganese into the air, soil, and water, leading to excessive emissions and causing significant environmental and public health threats. Industrial emissions, such as those from foundries and ferro-Mn facilities, the combustion of fossil fuels, and the entrainment of Mn-containing soils, are the main sources of airborne manganese.

For instance, in 2010, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) identified that the levels of airborne manganese in East Liverpool, Ohio, exceeded background levels and health-based guidelines, posing a public health hazard. Workplace studies of occupations such as mining and welding have also shown that inhaling high levels of manganese can lead to nervous system health effects.

Furthermore, industrial activities, such as mining, can result in the formation of waste rock storage yards. Rainfall leaching can cause the manganese-containing leachate from these yards to migrate into the soil and water, leading to ecological Mn pollution.

Water bodies can also be affected by manganese pollution. Manganese can be naturally present in groundwater and surface water, but human activities, such as industrial discharges, can increase its concentration. Elevated manganese levels in drinking water can cause aesthetic issues, such as metallic-tasting water and black stains on fixtures, and have been associated with neurological issues in infants and children.

A 2008 study found airborne manganese and chromium in East Liverpool, Ohio

Manganese is an essential nutrient found in many leafy green vegetables and beans. However, inhaling high levels of manganese can have adverse health effects. Certain occupations, such as mining and welding, have been linked to nervous system health issues due to high levels of manganese exposure.

In February 2008, the Ohio EPA completed an air quality study in East Liverpool, Ohio, which revealed that residents were at risk of exposure to airborne manganese and chromium. The S.H. Bell Company, a raw products storage and packaging facility, was identified as the source of these pollutants.

Following the initial findings, the Director of the Ohio EPA requested that the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) assess the potential health implications. The ATSDR's Health Consultation, completed in November 2010, concluded that the levels of airborne manganese in East Liverpool exceeded health-based guidelines and posed a public health hazard.

To further investigate the health effects of airborne manganese exposure, the US EPA conducted a health study in East Liverpool in November 2011. This study followed a similar protocol to previous manganese health studies conducted in Marietta and Mount Vernon, Ohio, allowing for data comparison between the three communities. Researchers collected information through questionnaires, blood tests, neurological and mood assessments, and neuropsychological tests.

The combined data from East Liverpool and Marietta indicated that higher exposure to manganese was associated with decreased neuropsychological and motor performance. Living in close proximity to a manganese source was also linked to these adverse health effects. The findings highlighted the strongest impacts on tremor, motor speed, and motor strength.

Frequently asked questions