PROJECT SUMMARY
In the U.S., chronic respiratory diseases are a leading cause of death and disability. Occupational exposures
substantially contribute to the burden of chronic lung diseases, resulting in >$10 billion in annual medical
expenditures. To address this significant public health burden, there is a pressing need for early identification
and mitigation of workplace risk factors, particularly in underrepresented groups experiencing elevated
exposures to respiratory toxicants. Hairdressers are an understudied, at-risk population for whom respiratory
health is a major concern. Over 700,000 U.S. hairdressers are exposed to chemicals which may impact lung
health. Our pilot data show that hairdressers of color (Black and Latina) have twice the national asthma
prevalence and that, compared to U.S. women, they have elevated exposures to mixtures of chemicals of
concern, including phthalates and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Limited animal and in vivo studies
report that the few phthalates and VOCs studied may affect epithelial cells leading to airway remodeling, have
immunomodulatory and adjuvant properties, and may be linked to oxidative stress and inflammatory
responses, mechanisms underlying respiratory diseases. Still, no studies to date have conducted robust
exposure characterization of these chemicals and assessed their role on the respiratory health of U.S.
hairdressers, despite prevalent respiratory health concerns. The overarching goal of the Measurement of
Exposures, Lung hEalth, and functioN in hAirdressers: The MELENA Study is to comprehensively assess
personal and workplace behaviors and workplace exposures to phthalates and VOCs and elucidate their role
on lung health. We will use robust exposure characterization approaches to identify opportunities for actionable
interventions to mitigate occupational exposures and associated respiratory health risks. To this end, we will
leverage our strong community partnerships and multidisciplinary team of experts to execute the following aims
in a racially diverse cohort of hairdressers: (1) assess exposures to phthalates and VOCs and identify
exposure risk drivers; (2) determine if exposure to phthalates and VOCs is associated with increased upper
airway and systemic oxidative stress and inflammatory markers; and (3) determine if phthalates and VOCs are
associated with worse lung function and respiratory symptoms. This will be the first study to comprehensively
characterize exposures to phthalates and VOCs (individually and as mixtures using novel mixtures methods)
and associated lung health risks among U.S. hairdressers. While work is a social determinant of health that
can drive health inequities, it is often overlooked as an avenue for public health interventions. Thus, identifying
modifiable workplace contributors in this population will provide key foundational evidence for disease
prevention and control. Findings will have direct public health impact by informing effective interventions and
federal policies to address exposures and protect vulnerable populations.