Perceptions and attitudes of gynecologic and pediatric professionals regarding dietary exposure to chemical pollutants

Abstract

There is increasing concern regarding the potential implications of continuous dietary 12 exposure to low doses of artificial chemical pollutants, particularly in critical life stages such as 13 pregnancy and lactation. Within a wider social research, we analysed the risk perception, 14 discourses, and attitudes of health professionals regarding dietary exposure to artificial chemicals 15 contaminants. Data was collected by personal interviews on 35 health professionals from two 16 Spanish regions. Although the participants´ discourses were strongly dominated by the nutritional 17 composition and microbiological contamination, 34 expressed some concern regarding metals, and 18 23 regarding pesticides. Although only one professional mentioned a plasticizer (i.e., Bisphenol-A), 19 we noted an underlying concern, since 6 professionals admitted to recommend pregnant women to 20 somewhat avoid plastic food containers, and were aware about mother to child transmission and 21 accumulation of artificial chemicals. The ubiquity of the exposure, the inability to locate the threat, 22 and the contradictory messages can all create a sense of helplessness and subsequent cognitive 23 adjustments. Our participants also admitted a lack of information, particularly on emerging 24 pollutants. In conclusion, we found a range of valuable discourses that can aid in orienting public 25 health strategies aimed at health professionals, who have substantial influence on their patients.