The Effect of Seasonal Fine Dust Concentrations on the Well-Being of Citizens in Seoul

Abstract

Numerous research studies have been conducted on the effects, risks, and prevention of the exposure to aerial pollutants. Particulate matter and urban air pollution affect the human body and can lead to death. Epidemiological studies should consider the exposure to pollutants and the diverse responses of individuals depending on their sensitivity to the pollutants. In this study, air pollution measurements were obtained hourly at measuring stations operated by the national and local governments to increase the reliability of the measured values. A β-ray absorption method was used to analyze the measurements of fine dust and determine the particulate matter content. The air pollution data were log-converted to enable the comparison of data from different time periods. A seasonal analysis of the data indicated that the concentration of fine dust in Seoul was higher in the autumn, winter, and spring than in the summer. The data on individual characteristics were obtained from a survey of Seoul citizens conducted from 2014 to 2016 and using indicators such as the quality of life and social trust of Seoul citizens. The survey on the living environment and residence indicated that 80% of the heads of households were men. Women had a greater dissatisfaction than men with the residential, economic, and social environments. The survey questions on well-being were related to the internal and external environment such as air pollution, noise, and fine dust.