Air Pollution Research Articles

Long-Term Exposure to Ambient Air Pollution and Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components.

Ambient air pollution is a serious public health issue worldwide. A growing number of studies has highlighted the negative effects of air pollution on metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components, including abdominal obesity, disorders of lipid metabolism, elevated blood pressure, and impaired fasting blood glucose. This review provides a brief overview of epidemiological and genetic interaction studies of the links between chronic exposure to ambient air pollution and MetS and its components, as well as plausible mechanisms underlying these relationships. The cumulative evidence suggests that long-term exposure to air pollution, especially particulate matter, increases the risk of MetS and its components. These associations can be partly modified by baseline characteristics, lifestyle, and health conditions. Gene-by-air-pollution interaction studies, limited to candidate genes in the past, have recently been conducted at an expanded genome-wide level. However, more such studies are needed to comprehensively understand the genetics involved in the association between air pollution and MetS. Mechanistic evidence suggests potential biological pathways, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction.

Interaction Between Traffic-Related Air Pollution and Parkinson Disease Polygenic Risk Score

ImportanceGenetic and environmental factors are linked to Parkinson disease (PD), but the role of genetic susceptibility in the association between traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) and PD remains unclear.ObjectiveTo assess the gene-environment interaction between the polygenic risk score (PRS) for PD and long-term TRAP exposure and to estimate the joint effect with PD risk.Design, Setting, and ParticipantsThis population-based case-control study used a meta-analytical assessment of studies conducted in central California and Denmark. The Parkinson Environment and Genes (PEG) study in California (June 1, 2000, to July 31, 2017) included 634 patients with PD and 733 controls; the Parkinson Disease in Denmark (PASIDA) study (January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2017) included 966 patients with PD and 1045 controls. Data were analyzed from July 1 to October 31, 2024.ExposuresPRS was computed by summing the effect estimates of well-known risk alleles from an existing genome-wide association study’s summary statistics using participants’ genetic arrays. TRAP exposure was estimated using dispersion models to calculate long-term exposure (10- or 15-year means with a 5-year lag) to traffic-related pollutants (represented by carbon monoxide [CO] levels) at participants’ residences.Main Outcomes and MeasuresThe main outcome was diagnosis of PD. Using multivariable logistic regression, PD risk was estimated from interactions between PRS (per SD) and TRAP exposure (per IQR), with joint effects based on low (quartiles 1-3) and high (quartile 4) exposure levels.ResultsA total of 1600 patients with PD (mean [SD] age, 65.1 [9.9] years; 990 [61.9%] male) and 1778 controls (mean [SD] age, 64.5 [10.3] years; 992 [55.8%] male) were included. Meta-analytical estimates suggest that both higher PRS and increased TRAP exposure increased PD risk, with an interaction effect estimate of 1.06 (95% CI, 1.00-1.12). Joint effect analysis indicated that individuals with both high PRS and high TRAP exposure were at greatest risk of PD (odds ratio, 3.05; 95% CI, 2.23-4.19) compared with the reference group with a low PRS and low TRAP exposure, suggesting a synergistic effect.Conclusions and RelevanceIn this gene-environment interaction study, a combination of long-term air pollution exposure and genetic susceptibility strongly contributed to the risk of developing PD. Widespread exposure to air pollution makes TRAP an important modifiable risk factor affecting large populations globally, particularly individuals with genetic vulnerability.

Perceptions of wildfire risk and adaptation behaviour in California

Abstract California wildfires have been increasing in frequency and severity. However, there is a limited understanding to date about people’s experiences with wildfire occurrences, how that experience shapes their perceptions of risk and how it affects their response in terms of actions that can reduce their household risk. In 2021, we fielded an online survey to 1204 people living in California aimed at understanding experience, risk perceptions, and decision-making strategies related to wildfires. We find that 70% of all survey respondents participants experienced poor air quality and 39% experienced a power outage in their home. Other experiences elicited (such as experiencing a school closure, a home evacuation, or home damages) were reported by less than 1/5 of our respondents. A significant portion of our survey respondents has undertaken actions to reduce the risk from wildfire to their household by having air filters, smoke-protecting masks and using informational air quality tools, and investing in back up power. Despite low number of reported prior experiences and the low perception of likelihood for the need to evacuate, a relatively large percent of respondents has taken actions to prepare for evacuation with 41% of the respondents stating packed a ‘go bag’, 32% securing a place to stay in case of evacuation, 35% reported having created a defensible space, and 18% have pursued retrofits to their house. Our regression models suggest that while the perception of risk is associated with action, other factors, such as being a homeowner or deriving livelihood off their land are much more likely to drive people to act. The results from our study suggest that while experience may lead to action, other policy interventions, such as clear communication on risks and consequences for households in high-risk areas, may be warranted to drive further action.

Air quality trends and regimes in South Korea inferred from 2015–2023 surface and satellite observations

Abstract. Air pollutant emissions in South Korea have been changing rapidly over the past decade. Here we analyze the resulting 2015–2023 trends in air quality and regimes using surface (AirKorea), aircraft (KORUS-AQ), and satellite (low Earth orbit, geostationary) measurements. Surface concentrations of primary pollutants have decreased at rates (CO: −2.6 ± 0.7 % a−1, SO2: −6.4 ± 0.8 % a−1, NO2: −4.4 ± 0.8 % a−1) consistent with the national Clean Air Policy Support System (CAPSS) emissions inventory and satellite observations. CAPSS indicates no trend in volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, consistent with satellite observations of formaldehyde (HCHO) and glyoxal (CHOCHO), but surface aromatic concentrations show a 5.0 ± 3.9 % a−1 decrease. Peak season (May–June) maximum 8 h daily average (MDA8) surface ozone (O3) exceeds the 60 ppbv standard everywhere at AirKorea sites, with an increase of 0.8 ± 0.9 ppbv a−1 in the 90th percentile averaged across all sites indicating VOC-limited conditions for O3 production. However, satellite HCHO/NO2 ratios indicate a shift from VOC- to NOx-limited as NOx emissions decrease. Most AirKorea sites are in the Seoul Metropolitan Area (SMA), where vestiges of VOC-limited conditions persist; we find no O3 increases over the rest of South Korea. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been decreasing at 5.0 ± 1.6 % a−1, but the nitrate (NO3-) component has not. Satellite NH3/NO2 ratios show that PM2.5 NO3- formation was NH3-sensitive before 2019 but is now becoming NOx-sensitive as NOx emissions decrease. Our results indicate that further NOx emission decreases will reap benefits for both O3 and PM2.5 NO3- as their production is now dominantly NOx-sensitive.

Does implementation of a low emission zone change perceptions of air quality, acceptability and travel behaviour? a longitudinal and repeated cross-sectional survey study in Bradford, UK

Background Despite the popularity of low emissions zones (LEZ) across Europe their public acceptability and impact on travel behaviours are scarcely studied. We aimed to explore changes in acceptability, perceptions of air quality, and travel behaviours in a multi-ethnic sample living in Bradford, UK after the implementation of a Clean Air Zone (a type of LEZ). Methods Telephone, in-person and online surveys were conducted one year pre- and one year post implementation. Participants included members of the representative Born in Bradford (BiB) cohort and members of the general public. A repeated cross-sectional analysis explored changes in responses between baseline and follow-up questions using chi-square tests and tests of proportions. Multinomial regressions explored whether socio-demographic variables were associated with changes in attitudes longitudinally. Results A total of 1,949 and 2,085 individuals participated in the baseline and follow-up surveys; 814 participants completed both. Participants were mostly female, aged 35–44. Half were white British, and 30% of Pakistani origin. The majority of participants supported the clean air zone at follow-up (59–64%), although these figures were lower than at baseline (by 4.9% for BiB families and 10.8% for members of the general public). A third indicated high concern about air quality (34–38%). Personal travel behaviours showed little variation pre to post implementation. On the whole, attitudes of those completing both surveys remained stable, and there were no systematic relationships between socio-demographic variables and whether attitudes worsened or became more positive. Conclusion Whilst CAZ support remained high, we observed small decreases in support after the CAZ implementation. As public acceptability is a key facilitator to the success of initiatives such as CAZ, a decrease in public support may threaten their sustainability. Communication about the need for CAZ, and demonstrations of their positive impact will be important to maintain levels of acceptability.

IOT-ENHANCED CANCER TREATMENT: A STUDY OF HEREDITARY RISK, LIFESTYLE FACTORS, AND REAL-TIME MONITORING TECHNOLOGIES

Shaping the universe of the Internet of Things (IoT) means rewriting how cancer treatment is given to patients. Research approach followed in this study is based on the comprehensive examination of IoT in carrying out cancer interventions through its part of real-time data collection and processing. Genetic predisposition determines cancer. Nevertheless, it is primarily unscrupulous management of such determinants in preventive care. IoT wearables and health monitoring wearables take pictures and allow continuous tracking of high-risk patients for cancer so that any deviation can activate proper preventive measures. Based on what is now understood, healthcare professionals stop the route of mere treatment of disease and rearrange their models into more and more predictive ones. Along the way, with the development of these devices, it becomes possible for the genetic mutation and the biomarker to be monitored in real-time. Lifestyle risk factors are mostly linked with cancer growth and development, including diet, activity, and exposure to carcinogens. IoT devices with wearable sensors and mobile health apps can define to patients exactly how active they are and the behaviours they are in their environment. For instance, air pollution sensors can detect an amount of pollutants that are linked to lung cancer, and fitness trackers can incentivize behavior as safety procedures. Such a change raises consumer engagement, which fosters the development of improved practices and reduction in risk factors. The unique characteristic of IoT in oncology, direct monitoring, provides real-time and constant feedback of various physiological states of the patients. Smart implants and biosensors are among the networked devices that generate real-time information about tumors, efficacy of treatment, and side effects. With this constantly growing amount of data, strategic planning is enhanced so that the treatment programs can be modified more effectively and accurately. Real-time monitoring enables deviation from the conventional cancer treatment to more sophisticated medicine, under strict monitoring and observation of any genetic hazards and lifestyle habits. The approach results in improved clinical outcomes and allows patients to take an active role in the self-management of their health. With the development of such IoT technologies, there is unlimited potential for revolutionizing the prevention and treatment of cancer, ultimately paving the way for the future of personalized, preventive, and patient-centered oncology.

Quantitative study on the air-purification and aesthetic effects of Epipremnum aureum on indoor occupants’ psycho-physiological responses

Indoor plants can effectively improve indoor air quality, relieve depression and other negative emotions for indoor occupants, and improve their work efficiency. However, the effects of plants on indoor occupants were attributed to the aesthetic effects only in previous studies, without considering the effect of air-purification performance. In this study, the purification and aesthetic coupling effects of Epipremnum aureum were studied using various combinations of number and placement of artificial and real E. aureum . Indoor environment parameters like the formaldehyde concentration were monitored. The effects of plants on subjects’ work efficiency and psycho-physiological benefits were investigated. Quantitative analysis was conducted on the air-purification and aesthetic coupling effects of E. aureum on subjects’ psycho-physiological responses using Isight software. The results revealed that the CADR of E. aureum could reach 10.254 m 3 /h, and the air-purification performance of the plants contributed to the physiological and psychological benefits of subjects. The interaction term of number and ‘real or artificial’ of plants contributed the most to the work efficiency, physiological response and psychological response of the subjects, accounting for 39.78%, 43.09% and 25.50%, respectively. The interaction term was a positive stimulus to work efficiency and physiological response and had a negative effect on psychological response.

The Impact of Home Interventions on Dry Eye Disease (DED) Symptoms and Signs in United States Veterans

Background: The indoor environment can contribute to dry eye disease (DED) risk, but the effects of environmental modifications on disease are still uncertain. This study evaluated the effect of home interventions that modify the indoor environment on DED symptoms and sign severity. Methods: The prospective study consisted of two visits (6 ± 1 months apart). At each home visit, indoor environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, and airborne particulate matter) were monitored and at each clinical visit, DED symptoms and signs were examined. After the first visit, all participants received a report of their home air quality and 10 recommendations to improve their home environment. At the 6-month visit, participants indicated which interventions they implemented. Results: A total of 99 subjects participated in the clinical evaluation and home monitoring at baseline and six-month follow-up. Their mean age was 61 years, and 26% identified as Hispanic. Most had mild or greater DED symptoms (5-Item Dry Eye Questionnaire, DEQ5 ≥ 6), with an average DEQ5 score of 10.49 ± 5.51 at baseline. In total, 77% (n = 76) implemented ≥1 intervention with home ventilation (42.4%), air conditioner filter change (36.4%), and exhaust fan use (31.3%) being the most frequent. Overall, with every intervention implemented, tear osmolarity (change from baseline to 6 months) declined by 2% (log-transformed β = 0.02; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.00–0.03; p < 0.05), and Meibomian gland (MG) plugging declined by 14% (log-transformed β = 0.14; CI = 0.05–24; p < 0.05). Specific interventions had specific impacts on DED signs and symptoms. For example, osmolarity declined by a greater degree in those that implemented home ventilation, while DED symptoms improved to a greater degree in those that utilized indoor plants compared to those that did not implement these interventions. Conclusions: When provided with an objective report of home environmental conditions and remediation strategies, most participants voluntarily implemented low-cost home interventions, which reduced the severity of select DED symptoms and signs.

Monitoring air pollutants in urbanized hydrothermal areas: challenges and benefits of traditional measurement strategies

Carbon- and sulfur-bearing gases are emitted at relevant amounts from hydrothermal manifestations at Tivoli Terme (Latium, central Italy), where different potential anthropogenic contaminant sources also occur. This study presents a geochemical dataset including CO2, CH4, SO2, and H2S concentrations and δ13C-CO2 and δ13C-CH4 values measured in air at the center of Tivoli town. The main aim was to evaluate the impact on air quality of hydrothermal manifestations and anthropogenic activities employing a traditional stationary monitoring strategy. The analytical results reveal significant air contamination from both natural and anthropogenic emissions, although gas levels were below outdoor air quality thresholds. Carbon dioxide and CH4 were primarily linked to anthropogenic sources, while hydrothermal emissions played a secondary role. However, H2S concentrations up to 282 ppb highlighted a notable impact from hydrothermal emissions surrounding the measurement station, where SO4-rich pools are located. Nevertheless, the geochemical data did not provide a reliable estimate of the specific contributions from each source. The study identifies key limitations in relying on a single fixed monitoring station, as weather conditions highly influence it and cannot reliably capture the relative impacts of various sources across a broad area. Additionally, compositional and isotopic geochemical parameters often produce ambiguous results, complicating the differentiation of pollution sources. An integrated approach is recommended, combining mobile stations for periodic pollutant mapping with low-cost instruments deployed at strategic locations near potential sources and progressively farther away. This strategy could better track the spatial and temporal evolution of contaminant concentrations, addressing the shortcomings of current monitoring systems and enhancing mitigation efforts.

Application of nanotechnology to dentistry: Impact of graphene nanocomposites on clinical air quality

Concerns about air quality in dental clinics where aerosol generation during procedures poses significant health risks, have prompted investigations on advanced disinfection technologies. This editorial describes the strengths and limitations of ventilation and aerosol control measures in dental offices, especially with respect to the use of graphene nanocomposites. The potential of graphene nanocomposites as an innovative solution to aerosol-associated health risks is examined in this review due to the unique properties of graphene (e.g. , high conductivity, mechanical strength, and antimicrobial activity). These properties have produced promising results in various fields, but the application of graphene in dentistry remains unexplored. The recent study by Ju et al which was published in World Journal of Clinical Cases evaluated the effectiveness of graphene-based air disinfection systems in dental clinics. The study demonstrated that graphene-based disinfection techniques produced significant reductions in suspended particulate matter and bacterial colony counts, when compared with traditional methods. Despite these positive results, challenges such as material saturation, frequency of filter replacement, and associated costs must be addressed before widespread adoption of graphene-based disinfection techniques in clinical practice. Therefore, there is need for further research on material structure optimization, long-term safety evaluations, and broader clinical applications, in order to maximize their positive impact on public health.

IoT Based Air and Sound Pollution Monitoring System

IoT Based Air and Sound Pollution Monitoring System

Use of graphene nanocomposites for air disinfection in dental clinics: A game-changer in infection control

This manuscript features the promising findings of a study conducted by Ju et al , who used graphene nanocomposites for air disinfection in dental clinics. Their study demonstrated that, compared with conventional filters, graphene nanocomposites substantially improved air quality and reduced microbial contamination. This manuscript highlights the innovative application of graphene materials, emphasizing their potential to enhance dental clinic environments by minimizing secondary pollution. On the basis of the unique antimicrobial properties of graphene and the original study’s rigorous methodology, we recommend using graphene nanocomposites in clinical settings to control airborne infections.

Development and Performance Study of Continuous Oil–Water Separation Device Based on Superhydrophobic/Oleophilic Mesh

Oil–water separation is an important method for treating oily wastewater and recovering oil resources. Based on the different affinities of superhydrophobic surfaces to water and oil, long-term oil–water separation devices with low-energy and high efficiency can be developed through the optimization of structure and process parameters. Superhydrophobic coatings were prepared on stainless-steel mesh surfaces using a spray method to construct single-channel oil–water separation equipment with superhydrophobic/oleophilic meshes, and the effects of structural and process parameters on separation efficiency were systematically investigated. Additionally, a multi-channel oil–water separation device was designed and fabricated to evaluate the feasibility and stability of long-term continuous operations. The optimized single V-shaped channel should be horizontally placed and made from 150-mesh stainless-steel mesh folded at an angle of 38.9°. For the oil–water mixtures containing 20 wt.% oil, the oil–water separation efficiencies for single and two-stage separation were 92.79% and 98.96%, respectively. After 36 h of continuous operation, the multi-channel separation device achieved single-stage and two-stage separation efficiencies of 94.60% and 98.76%, respectively. The maximum processing capacity of the multi-channel device reached 168 L/h. The modified stainless mesh can remain stable with a contact angle (CA) higher than 150° to water for 34 days. The average residence time and contact area during the oil–water separation process significantly affect separation efficiency. By optimizing oil–water separation structures and process parameters, and using a superhydrophobic spray modification method, separation efficiency can be improved while avoiding the generation of secondary pollutants.

The ubiquitous silent killer: Exploring the link between air pollution and brain cancer

Air pollution has been associated with various diseases including respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative disorders. Recent evidence suggests a potential link between air pollution and the development of brain cancer. This narrative review discusses epidemiological evidence on the topic, reviews biological pathways, and identifies directions for future research. From a total of 334 records screened from a PUBMED search, 30 articles focusing on pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), ultrafine particles (UFPs), black carbon, and nitrogen dioxide were included. While the findings of some studies were used to review underlying biological mechanisms, the results of epidemiological studies, a meta-analysis, and a systematic review were used to interpret existing evidence. The results indicated that air pollutants affect the central nervous system both directly and indirectly. Mechanisms of tumorigenesis include oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage. UFPs pose a heightened risk due to the ease by which they penetrate the brain. Epidemiological studies indicate a higher incidence of brain cancer among individuals exposed to elevated levels of various pollutants. Synthesized results suggest that black carbon, PM₂.₅, NO₂, and NOₓ are amongst the pollutants with significant risks. Despite evidence suggesting a correlation between air pollution and brain cancer, the association remains complex and requires further investigation, especially with data on long-term exposure. Artificial intelligence models, particularly those incorporating gene-environment interactions, should be used to comprehensively predict brain cancer risk. Collaborative efforts between environmental scientists, oncologists, and policymakers are necessary to address the lethal threat posed by the ubiquitous ‘silent killer’.

Dayanıqlı İnkişaf Prinsiplərinin Azərbaycanda Layihə İdarəetməsinə Tətbiqi

This article comprehensively explores the application of sustainable development principles to project management in Azerbaijan. The primary objective of the study is to propose strategic approaches and recommendations for sustainable project management in Azerbaijan based on an in-depth analysis of global experiences. Global practices, including initiatives aimed at addressing climate change and environmental issues, have been reviewed and compared with Azerbaijan's current situation. The research highlighted the steps taken by Azerbaijan toward sustainable development. In particular, the Smart Villages project implemented within the framework of the "Azerbaijan 2030" National Priorities and the assessment of renewable energy potential were emphasized as significant factors for ensuring sustainable development. Furthermore, existing ecological issues such as industrial waste and air pollution were analyzed, and general approaches to addressing these challenges were proposed. The article concludes with strategic approaches and recommendations aimed at achieving the country's sustainable development goals. These suggestions are focused on ensuring ecological and economic balance in Azerbaijan and implementing more efficient and sustainable project management practices.

A wake-up call for India to improve the TB elimination strategies.

To augment a recent study highlighting the concerning rise in the global burden of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) among children and adolescents, this article presents the realities in India, stressing the urgent need for enhanced TB elimination strategies. It explores how insufficient data, rising air pollution, and recent U.S. sanctions impede the detection and control of pediatric TB burden including MDR-TBs in India. This article serves as a wake-up call for stakeholders to take decisive actions while facilitating future research and policy development. We provide targeted recommendations to address vulnerabilities and prevent a potential public health crisis.

The impact of photochemical aging on secondary aerosol formation from a marine engine

Ship traffic is known as an important contributor to air pollution. Regulations aimed at reducing sulfur oxide pollution by limiting the fuel sulfur content (FSC) may also decrease primary particulate matter (PM) emitted from ships. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding how the FSC affects secondary aerosol formation. The emissions from a research ship engine operated with either low sulfur heavy fuel oil (LS-HFO) (FSC = 0.5%) or marine gas oil (MGO) (FSC = 0.01%), were photochemically processed in the oxidation flow reactor “PEAR” to achieve an equivalent photochemical age between 0 and 9 days in the atmosphere. FSC was found to have no significant impact on secondary organic aerosol formation after 3 days of aging, at 1.7 ± 0.4 g/kg for MGO and 1.5 ± 0.4 g/kg for LS-HFO. Furthermore, the composition and oxidative pathways remained similar regardless of FSC. However, because of the higher secondary SO4 formation and primary aerosol emissions, LS-HFO had significantly higher total PM than MGO.

Association of long-term exposure to air pollutants with benign prostatic hyperplasia among middle-aged and older men in China.

Air pollution has been an important risk factor for human health. However, little is known about the impacts of air pollutants on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men. We aimed to explore the association of long-term exposure to air pollutants with BPH among men. We leveraged the nationally representative data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, a total of 8,826 participants aged 45 years and above from 125 Chinese cities were enrolled in 2015. Annual fine particulate matter (PM2.5), coarse particles (PM2.5-10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone were estimated using satellite-based models. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess the risk of BPH associated with air pollutants. The restricted cubic spline model was performed to explore the exposure-response relationships with BPH. Of the 8,826 participants (mean age: 60.3 years), the prevalence of BPH was 14.5%. Each 10µg/m3 rise in PM2.5 (odds ratio 1.04, 95% confidence intervals: 1.01-1.07) and PM2.5-10 (1.06, 1.02-1.10) were associated with prevalent BPH. Compared with the lowest quartile levels, higher PM2.5 and PM2.5-10 exposure were related to an increased risk of BPH. There were non-linear relationship between PM2.5-10 and NO2 exposure with prevalent BPH. The association with BPH was more pronounced in participants who were overweight/obesity. This study suggests that long-term air pollutants exposure, especially for PM2.5 and PM2.5-10, is associated with BPH among middle-aged and older men. Our findings provide epidemiological evidence for policymakers and researchers to improve prostate health by reducing air pollution.

Hospital admissions attributable to reduced air pollution due to clean-air policies in China.

The Air Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan (APPCAP) is considered to be the most stringent air pollution control policy in China implemented since 2013. This policy is a milestone in China to mitigate serious air pollution. However, health benefits attributable to reduced fine-particulate air pollution after the implementation of the APPCAP have not been quantitatively estimated on a PM2.5 constituent-specific and morbidity cause-specific basis. Here we conducted a nationwide case-crossover study based on hospital admission records in 292 Chinese cities during 2013-2017. Compared with 2013, the annual average concentrations of PM2.5 and black carbon (BC) in 2017 decreased by 28.61% and 20.35%, respectively. As a result, the average relative reductions in annual attributable fractions of nine major cause-specific hospital admissions associated with PM2.5 and BC were 30.00% and 21.14%, respectively, among which annual attributable fraction for depression showed the largest reduction. Nationally, cities with higher reductions in PM2.5 and BC were found to have higher absolute reductions in annual hospital admission attributable fractions associated with PM2.5 and BC, and geographic inequality in health benefits still existed. Our study highlights the substantial wide-ranging health benefits of reduced PM2.5 and BC levels following the nationwide implementation of the APPCAP in China.

Long-term exposure to air pollution and gastrointestinal disease: findings from a nationwide cohort study in China

Background and aimsAir pollution poses significant risks to human health, but its impact on gastrointestinal (GI) health remains underexplored. This study assesses the long-term effects of air pollution on GI diseases using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS).MethodsThis nationwide cohort study utilized CHARLS data from participants recruited in 2011, followed by surveys in 2013, 2015, 2018, and 2020. Long-term exposure to PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, CO, and O3 was assessed using geocoded residential addresses linked to air quality data. Cox proportional hazards models and subgroup interaction analyses were used to evaluate associations between pollutants and GI disease incidence, adjusting for demographic and behavioral confounders.ResultsThe incidence of GI disease was 21.4% among participants. Long-term exposure to PM2.5 (HR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.33–1.44), PM10 (HR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.26–1.36), SO2 (HR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.68–1.81), NO2 (HR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.17–1.25), CO (HR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.42–1.54), and O3 (HR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.54–0.59) was significantly associated with GI disease. Interaction analyses showed that the effects of pollutants varied by region, residence, smoking, and alcohol use. Urban residents and those living in specific regions experienced stronger associations, likely due to higher pollution levels and different environmental factors. Smokers and alcohol users were also more susceptible to the adverse effects of pollutants.ConclusionsLong-term exposure to multiple air pollutants increases the risk of GI diseases, while ozone may potentially offer some protective effects. Public health measures to reduce air pollution, especially in urban areas, and to protect high-risk groups are urgently needed.