Cent Eur J Public Health 2016, 24(4):308-313

Nanomaterials - a New and Former Public Health Issue. The Case of Slovakia

Stanislav Kuka1, Marta Hurbánková2, Martina Drličková2,3, Tibor Baška1, Henrieta Hudečková1, Zuzana Tatarková1
1 Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovak Republic
2 Faculty of Public Health Studies, Slovak Medical University, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
3 Centre for Chemical Substances and Preparations, Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic, Bratislava, Slovak Republic

Nanoparticles exist for a long time as both inorganic and organic parts of nature. Recently, massive expansion of nanotechnologies is evidenced, together with intentional production of new nanoparticles which have not been in contact with living organisms until now. Besides obvious positive aspects, potential threats related to their exposure should be taken into consideration. Unique physical-chemical properties of nanoparticles cause a high bioactivity following their intake (through air, ingestion and skin) and unrestricted spread in exposed organs. Primary effects of nanoparticles on cellular level represent oxidative stress and reactions leading to apoptosis, autophagocytosis and necrosis. Number of studies indicating contribution of nanoparticles to numerous disorders has been recently increasing. However, detailed mechanisms of health effects are not well known. Similarly, there is insufficient information on life cycle of nanoparticles in the environment. Research in this field as well as legislation is behind rapid development and use of nanotechnologies. Considering absence of mandatory exposure limits and other protective measures, nanomaterials represent a potential threat for population health. Recommendations and guidelines of international institutions can contribute to deal with situation, however, passing of effective legislation both on national and European level is urgently needed.

Keywords: nanomaterials, nanoparticles, environmental hazard, population health, exposure limits

Received: July 1, 2016; Revised: October 25, 2016; Accepted: October 25, 2016; Published: December 1, 2016  Show citation

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Kuka S, Hurbánková M, Drličková M, Baška T, Hudečková H, Tatarková Z. Nanomaterials - a New and Former Public Health Issue. The Case of Slovakia. Cent Eur J Public Health. 2016;24(4):308-313. PubMed PMID: 28095287.
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