Reduction in organochlorine levels in the milk of New Zealand women

In this study, the authors investigated whether measures taken to reduce exposures subsequent to 1988 led to detectable reductions in levels of persistent organochlorine compounds in milk samples of New Zealand women collected in 1998-1999. The procedures and selection criteria used in a 1987-1988 study were replicated. Participants (n = 53) completed a questionnaire and provided a milk sample, which the authors analyzed for polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans, polychlorinated biphenyl congeners, and organochlorine pesticides. Levels of most compounds measured in this study declined approximately 70% from their 1987-1988 values. Levels were low, compared with those found in similar studies from other countries. These results provide evidence that exposure of New Zealand women to organochlorine substances has substantially declined, suggesting that policy measures to reduce exposures have been effective.