https://doi.org/10.1140/epjp/s13360-025-07030-4
Regular Article
Integrating the exposome framework in CBRNe risk assessment: a holistic approach to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive threats
1
Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
2
International Master Courses in Protection against CBRNe Events, School of Medicine and Surgery and Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
3
Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
4
National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
5
Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, Thessaloniki, Greece
6
Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Balkan Center, HERACLES Research Center on the Exposome and Health, Thessaloniki, Greece
7
Science, Technology and Society Department, Research Center for Complex Risk and Data Analysis, University School for Advanced Study (IUSS), Pavia, Italy
8
Center for Green Chemistry & Green Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
a
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Received:
21
September
2025
Accepted:
3
November
2025
Published online:
15
November
2025
Abstract
This paper introduces the exposome framework as a transformative approach to improving Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNe) risk assessments. Historically, CBRNe evaluations have concentrated on acute exposures and immediate health effects, often overlooking long-term and cumulative risks. By incorporating the exposome—defined as the totality of exposures experienced throughout an individual’s life—this paper advocates for a more holistic understanding of health consequences posed by CBRNe agents. The exposome framework enhances the ability to account for low-dose, chronic exposures, residual contamination, and their synergistic interactions with other environmental and physiological factors. It is vital for assessing the health risks faced by vulnerable populations, such as first responders and communities living near CBRNe events. This paper explores emerging technological advances in biological and personal monitoring, omics technologies (genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics), and artificial intelligence (AI)-based modeling, which facilitate precise health outcome predictions. The policy implications of integrating the exposome perspective into CBRNe preparedness are also discussed, emphasizing the importance of proactive strategies that address immediate and long-term health effects of CBRNe agents.
© The Author(s) 2025
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