Association of diabetes outcome and atrazine exposure among Pennsylvania counties, 2011-2019

Title : Association of diabetes outcome and atrazine exposure among Pennsylvania counties, 2011-2019

Abstract:

Background: Atrazine, a widely used herbicide, is recognized for its potential endocrine-disrupting effects, though its direct link to diabetes has not been extensively studied. 

Objectives: This study investigates the relationship between atrazine exposure and diabetes incidence, especially in agricultural settings, and examines how socioeconomic factors like income and education levels influence diabetes risk.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from 67 counties in Pennsylvania from 2011 to 2019. Atrazine exposure was measured in local water sources and correlated with diabetes data from the Pennsylvania Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Socioeconomic data were sourced from U.S. Census Bureau records, with logistic regression used to adjust for confounders such as age, race, and lifestyle. 

Results: Findings showed a significant association between high atrazine exposure and increased diabetes incidence, even after adjusting for confounders. 

Discussion and Conclusion: The study highlights a significant health risk posed by atrazine, particularly for socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. It underscores the need for stricter atrazine regulation and public health interventions to mitigate its impact. Further research is crucial to understand how atrazine affects glucose metabolism and diabetes development. Implementing stricter environmental controls and educational initiatives could reduce the diabetes burden in impacted communities.

Biography:

Dr. Tia Warrick is an accomplished clinical research professional, epidemiologist, and senior project manager, with almost 10 years of experience in statistics, data analysis, and study design. She holds a Doctor of Health Science, a Master in Public Health Epidemiology, and a Bachelor of Biology. Throughout her career, Dr. Warrick has contributed extensively to the fields of clinical trials and neuroscience research, starting her research journey at Roswell Park and University at Buffalo Neurosurgery. In addition to her professional work, Dr. Warrick is a professor and has a passion for education, teaching graduate-level courses in public health and research design. She is also a published author of two acclaimed books, including Burst the Bubble: A Look into Careers in the Pharmaceutical Industry, which won a Gold Medal at the 2024 PenCraft Award, Global eBook Awards, Bookfest Award, Literary Titan Award, and Outstanding Creator Award. Her research spans a wide array of topics, including public health disparities, environmental contaminants, and social determinants of health. Dr. Warrick is currently presenting her research titled:  Association of Diabetes Outcome and Atrazine Exposure Among Pennsylvania Counties, 2011-2019.