Exposure to Methamphetamine in Contaminated Residential Properties: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Airborne Exposure

Abstract

Studies of third-hand exposure to methamphetamine from contaminated properties have focused on dermal and oral exposure but have mostly excluded inhalation. Recent literature highlights the need to consider this previously omitted pathway. In this study, we monitored airborne concentrations in properties most likely contaminated via recreational smoking of methamphetamine. The homogeneity of airborne methamphetamine was assessed, along with the correlation between its levels and those measured on different surfaces or in the subsurface material. Airborne methamphetamine concentrations were also compared ‘before’ and ‘after’ remediation. Our results suggested airborne methamphetamine contributes as an exposure route for properties contaminated by this drug, although this may only be significant in certain situations. The level of airborne methamphetamine was relatively homogenous among rooms of the same property, and there were correlations between air sampling with wipe (R2 = 0.76) and bulk sampling (R2 = 0.94), but mainly driven by higher contamination levels. This indicates that air sampling could be used as an additional tool to identify the presence of high methamphetamine contamination. The presence of low levels of airborne methamphetamine after remediation of impacted surfaces is additional evidence that airborne sampling is a sensitive method to detect methamphetamine contamination in properties. Further research is needed to establish the relationship between levels of methamphetamine contamination and specific health risks, which can then be used to determine related policy responses and, if necessary, establish evidence-based remediation targets.