Unequal pollutant exposure in men and women in the Arctic

The Arctic is often portrayed as a remote and pristine region, yet it is increasingly shaped by pollution originating far beyond its borders. Chemicals released in industrial areas are transported north through the atmosphere and oceans, accumulating in Arctic ecosystems. Climate change is intensifying this process by releasing contaminants once trapped in ice and permafrost.

For Arctic communities, exposure to these pollutants is closely tied to diet. Traditional foods such as fish and marine mammals remain essential for nutrition, food security and cultural identity. At the same time, these species can contain elevated levels of harmful substances, including persistent organic pollutants and mercury. This creates a well-known challenge: how to maintain the benefits of traditional diets while limiting exposure to contaminants.

Research across Arctic populations points to a consistent but often overlooked pattern. Women generally show lower levels of many organic pollutants in their bodies than men, on average about a quarter less. This difference appears to reflect both social practices and biological processes. In many communities, men and women do not consume exactly the same foods or quantities, and cultural norms can influence which parts of animals are eaten. As a result, men and women are not exposed to the same levels of pollutants to begin with.

Biology also contributes to these differences. Women can eliminate certain contaminants through processes such as menstruation, pregnancy and breastfeeding, which may reduce long-term accumulation. Together, these factors help explain why measured levels are often lower in women.

Lower levels, however, do not necessarily imply lower risk. Some studies indicate that women may be more sensitive to certain chemicals, particularly those that interfere with hormonal systems. Exposure to substances such as PFAS has been associated with effects on thyroid function, with indications of stronger responses in women. Periods such as pregnancy may also increase vulnerability, meaning that even relatively low exposure can have important consequences.

At the same time, important gaps remain in the evidence base. While many studies focus on women, often in relation to maternal health, men are frequently underrepresented or results are not clearly reported by sex. This limits understanding of how exposure and health risks vary across populations and can complicate the development of effective public health responses.

Addressing pollution in the Arctic requires balancing several priorities, including reducing harmful exposure, maintaining food security and preserving cultural practices. A single approach is unlikely to capture this complexity. Instead, there is growing recognition of the need for strategies that take into account differences in exposure and vulnerability between men and women, while also reflecting the knowledge and priorities of Arctic communities.

The Arctic is often described as a sentinel of global environmental change. The pollutants found there largely originate elsewhere, yet their impacts are felt locally and unevenly. Recognizing these differences is an important step towards developing more effective and equitable responses to pollution in a rapidly changing region.

Léa Zinsli, PolarJournal