Pennante Naa Ayikailey Bruce-Vanderpuije

  • Country of Origin: Ghana
  • Home University: Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
  • Host University & Country: The State University of New York - USA
  • PhD Title: Investigations into the state of POPs in Ghana and Human Biomonitoring of dixoxin-like PCBs, PCDD/Fs, PXDD/Fs in vulnerable Ghanain populations
  • Year of Completion: 2019
Pennante Naa Ayikailey Bruce-Vanderpuije

PhD Overview

This research assessed human and environmental exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in Ghana, focusing on dioxins and dioxin-like compounds (DLCs). A systematic review revealed limited human exposure data, inconsistent methods, and regional data gaps, though some POP concentrations are declining. Using low-cost, modified GC-APCI-MS/MS methods, serum and breastmilk samples from first-time mothers in Accra and Tema were analyzed. Results showed detectable dioxin and DLC levels, with exposure influenced by location, diet, and age. Estimated infant intake exceeded safety thresholds, highlighting the need for expanded biomonitoring, especially among vulnerable and occupationally exposed populations in Ghana.

Sustainability Goals

  • Clean Water and Sanitation
  • Good Health and Well-being
  • Life Below Water

About Me

I am an environmental chemist with an interest in toxic contaminants. I lead impactful research on POPs and microplastics in Ghana. As PI on multiple international grants (UNESCO, RSC, TWAS), I’ve published widely and pioneered low-cost analytical methods for human biomonitoring with MSc and BSc students.