Summary
This global review synthesises evidence on aflatoxin exposure and human health burden, documenting dramatic geographic variation in biomarker prevalence (0–100% across regions) and mechanistic pathways to cancer through mutagenic DNA adducts, oxidative stress, and immune dysfunction. The authors propose an integrated One Health approach spanning farm-level prevention through consumer-level intervention, incorporating emerging technologies (biosensors, artificial intelligence, blood spot assays) and regulatory frameworks to reduce disease burden, despite most countries having set maximum allowable levels.
Regional applicability
This review indicates aflatoxin exposure and disease burden are substantially lower in Europe and historically low in countries with developed food safety systems, including the United Kingdom. However, the review notes exposure may be increasing even in historically low-exposure countries, warranting vigilance in UK food safety surveillance and supply chain monitoring, particularly for imported commodities and animal feed.
Key measures
Aflatoxin-albumin/lysine adduct detection prevalence across regions; cancer and disease outcomes; exposure detection methods; regulatory standards compliance
Outcomes reported
The review examined global aflatoxin exposure prevalence, geographic distribution of human biomarkers (aflatoxin-albumin/lysine adducts), and associated disease outcomes, particularly cancer. It summarised mechanistic pathways and evaluated integrated farm-to-consumer mitigation strategies within a One Health framework.
Topic tags
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