Detrimental Effects Of Air Pollution Research Articles

Individual and joint exposure to air pollutants and patterns of multiple chronic conditions.

Existing research on the detrimental effects of air pollution and its mixture on multiple chronic conditions (MCC) is not yet fully recognized. Our objective was to examine if individual and joint exposure to air pollution is associated with the incidence and patterns of MCC. Totally 10,231 CHARLS 2015 participants aged over 45 years and 1,938 without MCC were followed up in 2018 and 2020. Residential-levelcumulative personal exposure concentrations of PM1, PM10, PM2.5, CO, O3, NO2, SO2, NO3-, Cl-, NH4+, and SO42- at the residential level were determined utilizing a spatio-temporal random forest model with a spatial resolution of 0.1° × 0.1°. In the cross-sectional and longitudinal research, logistic regression, cox regression analysis, and quantile g-computation were utilized to estimate the single and joint effect with MCC and its patterns, respectively. Interaction analyses and stratified analyses were also performed. A correlation was observed between the prevalence of cardiovascular illnesses and the presence of all 11 major air pollutants. PM2.5, PM10, NH4+, NO3-, CO, and SO42- are associated with an increased frequency of respiratory disorders. An increase of PM2.5, PM1, PM10, NO2, and SO2 (a 10µg/m3 rise), CO (a 0.1mg/m3 rise), and PMCs (Cl-, NH4+, NO3-, and SO42-) (a 1µg/m3 rise) corresponded to the HRs (95% CI) for developing MCC of 1.194 (95% CI: 1.043, 1.367), 1.362 (95% CI: 1.073, 1.728), 1.115 (95% CI: 1.026, 1.212), 1.443 (95% CI: 1.151, 1.808), 3.175 (95% CI: 2.291, 4.401), 1.272 (95% CI: 1.149,1.410), 1.382 (95% CI: 1.011, 1.888), 1.107 (95% CI: 1.003, 1.222), 1.035 (95% CI: 0.984, 1.088), and 1.122 (95% CI: 1.086, 1.160), respectively. SO2 was the predominant contributor to the combined effect (HR: 2.083, 95% CI: 1.659-2.508). Gender, age, drinking, and health status could modify the effects of air pollutants on MCC patterns. Long-term exposure to air pollution is correlated to the incidence and patterns of MCC in middle-aged and elderly Chinese individuals. Preventive methods are essential to safeguarding those susceptible to MCC.

Different effects of air pollutant concentrations on influenza A and B in Sichuan, China

BackgroundThe detrimental effects of air pollution on the respiratory system are well documented. Previous research has established a correlation between air pollutant concentration and the frequency of outpatient visits for influenza-like illness. However, studies investigating the variations in infection among different influenza subtypes remain sparse. We aimed to determine the correlation between air pollutant levels and different influenza subtypes in Sichuan Province, China. MethodsA generalized additive model and distributed lag nonlinear model were employed to assess the association between air pollutants and influenza subtypes, utilizing daily influenza data obtained from 30 hospitals across 21 cities in Sichuan Province. The analysis considered the temporal effects and meteorological factors. The study spanned from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2019. To provide a more precise evaluation of the actual impact of air pollution on different subtypes of influenza, we also performed subgroup analyses based on factors such as gender, age, and geography within the population. ResultsDuring the investigation, 17,462 specimens from Sichuan Province tested positive for influenza. Among these, 12,607 and 4855 were diagnosed with Flu A and B, respectively. The related risk of influenza A infection significantly increased following exposure to PM2.5 on Lag2 days (RR=1.008, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.000–1.016), SO2 and CO on Lag1 days (RR=1.121, 95 % CI: 1.032–1.219; RR=1.151, 95 % CI: 1.030–1.289), and NO2 on Lag0 day (RR=1.089, 95 % CI: 1.035–1.145). PM10 and SO2 levels on Lag0 day, PM2.5 levels on Lag1 day, and CO levels on Lag6 day, with a reduced risk of influenza B (RR=0.987, 95 % CI: 0.976–0.997; RR=0.817, 95 % CI: 0.676–0.987; RR=0.979, 95 % CI: 0.970–0.989; RR=0.814, 95 % CI: 0.561–0.921). ConclusionThe findings from the overall population and subgroup analyses indicated that the impact of air pollutant concentrations on influenza A and B is inconsistent, with influenza A demonstrating greater susceptibility to these pollutants. Minimizing the levels of SO2, CO, NO2, and PM2.5 can significantly decrease the likelihood of contracting influenza A. Analyzing the influence of environmental contaminants on different influenza subtypes can provide insights into seasonal influenza trends and guide the development of preventive and control strategies.

Assessment of Ambient Air Pollution Levels: A Five-Year Analysis of PM2.5, NO, NO2, NOX, CO, and SO2

The study conducted on the air quality of five highly polluted cities in India over the last five years (2015-2020) sheds light on the detrimental effects of air pollution and the need for monitoring and mitigation. The research focused on six major air pollutants: PM2.5, NO, NO2, NOX, CO, and SO2. The study's findings reveal that the concentrations of these air pollutants consistently exceeded the limits set by the National Ambient Air Quality Standards 2009 and the World Health Organization's Ambient Air Quality Standards. This indicates that the air quality in these cities was consistently poor and posed a significant health risk to the population. The study emphasises that certain subpopulations, such as the elderly, young children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions like asthma, are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of air pollutants. Elevated levels of pollutants in the air can lead to severe health effects and contribute to the development of serious diseases. Furthermore, the study highlights that the air quality significantly improved in 2020 due to the nationwide lockdown imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The restrictions on mobility and industrial activities resulted in reduced emissions, leading to a temporary improvement in air quality. These conclusions underscore the critical importance of understanding the harmful effects of air pollutants and taking measures to protect human health and preserve the quality of the environment.

Air pollution and firm performance: the role of innovation and happiness

Purpose The detrimental effects of air pollution on the continuity of corporations attract more and more attention in the economic and financial studies. Prior literature investigates the impact of air pollution on corporate financial performance. This study aims to extend this research area by exploring the role of corporate innovation and happiness as factors that mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution and moderate the relationship between air pollution and financial performance. Design/methodology/approach This study uses two-step system generalized method of moments models to analyze the data of 200 firms listed on Istanbul Stock Exchange over the period 2009–2022. Findings The results show that firms located in regions with higher air pollution are more likely to invest in innovation. In addition, firms that are more exposed to air pollution and have investments in research and development (R&D) have less ability to improve their financial performance compared to firms that have no investments in R&D. In a similar vein, although R&D has positive effect on financial performance, this effect diminishes in the presence of higher air pollution. The results also show that happiness has no significant moderating effect on the relationship between air pollution and financial performance. Practical implications The findings of this study related to the role of corporate innovation in determining the effect of air pollution on financial performance indicate that the costs of investment in R&D weaken the firm’s ability to mitigate the adverse impact of air pollution on financial performance, which provides important signals to policymakers to concentrate more on supporting investment in corporate innovation by providing the necessary facilities for firms to improve their innovative performance and decrease the costs of investment in innovation. Originality/value To the author’s knowledge, this research is the first to explore the influence of happiness on the air pollution–financial performance relationship. In addition, this study differs from most prior ones by examining how responding to air pollution through investment in innovation can moderate the association between air pollution and financial performance.

Short-Term Exposure to Ambient Air Pollution and Schizophrenia Hospitalization: A Case-Crossover Study in Jingmen, China

The impact of short-term exposure to air pollutants on the morbidity of schizophrenia, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, remains inadequately explored. The objective of this research was to investigate the relationship between short-term exposure to ambient air pollutants and the risk of schizophrenia hospitalization in Jingmen, China. We performed a time-stratified case-crossover study using daily records of hospital admissions due to schizophrenia in Jingmen Mental Health Center from 2015 to 2017. Environmental exposures to air pollutants and meteorological conditions on case and control days were estimated on the basis of measurements from ground monitoring stations. To investigate the relationship between short-term exposure to ambient air pollutants and the risk of hospitalization for schizophrenia, a conditional logistic regression model was employed. We performed subgroup analyses stratified according to sex, age groups, and season. In total, 4079 schizophrenia hospitalizations were recorded during the designated period. Increased risk of schizophrenia was merely associated with short-term exposure to SO2 and NO2. The estimated odds per interquartile range (IQR) increase in exposure was 1.112 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.033, 1.196) for SO2 (IQR = 12 µg/m3) and 1.112 (95% CI: 1.033, 1.197) for NO2 (IQR = 18 µg/m3) on lag-0 day. Greater air pollution-schizophrenia associations were observed among middle-aged and older adults (over 45 years of age) and during the cold season. This study added case-crossover evidence indicating that short-term exposure to ambient air pollution, specifically SO2 and NO2, is linked to a higher risk of hospital admissions for schizophrenia. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the detrimental effects of air pollution on neuropsychiatric health conditions.

Chronic PM2.5 exposure disrupts intestinal barrier integrity via microbial dysbiosis-triggered TLR2/5-MyD88-NLRP3 inflammasome activation

BackgroundPM2.5, a known public health risk, is increasingly linked to intestinal disorders, however, the mechanisms of its impact are not fully understood. PurposeThis study aimed to explore the impact of chronic PM2.5 exposure on intestinal barrier integrity and to uncover the underlying molecular mechanisms. MethodsC57BL/6 J mice were exposed to either concentrated ambient PM2.5 (CPM) or filtered air (FA) for six months to simulate urban pollution conditions. We evaluated intestinal barrier damage, microbial shifts, and metabolic changes through histopathology, metagenomics, and metabolomics. Analysis of the TLR signaling pathway was also conducted. ResultsThe mean concentration of PM2.5 in the CPM exposure chamber was consistently measured at 70.9 ± 26.8 μg/m³ throughout the study period. Our findings show that chronic CPM exposure significantly compromises intestinal barrier integrity, as indicated by reduced expression of the key tight junction proteins Occludin and Tjp1/Zo-1. Metagenomic sequencing revealed significant shifts in the microbial landscape, identifying 35 differentially abundant species. Notably, there was an increase in pro-inflammatory nongastric Helicobacter species and a decrease in beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus intestinalis, Lactobacillus sp. ASF360, and Eubacterium rectale. Metabolomic analysis further identified 26 significantly altered metabolites commonly associated with intestinal diseases. A strong correlation between altered bacterial species and metabolites was also observed. For example, 4 Helicobacter species all showed positive correlations with 13 metabolites, including Lactate, Bile acids, Pyruvate and Glutamate. Additionally, increased expression levels of TLR2, TLR5, Myd88, and NLRP3 proteins were noted, and their expression patterns showed a strong correlation, suggesting a possible involvement of the TLR2/5-MyD88-NLRP3 signaling pathway. ConclusionsChronic CPM exposure induces intestinal barrier dysfunction, microbial dysbiosis, metabolic imbalance, and activation of the TLR2/5-MyD88-NLRP3 inflammasome. These findings highlight the urgent need for intervention strategies to mitigate the detrimental effects of air pollution on intestinal health and identify potential therapeutic targets.

Air pollution and diabetes mellitus: Association and validation in a desert area in China.

Despite the growing evidence pointing to the detrimental effects of air pollution on diabetes mellitus (DM), the relationship remains poorly explored, especially in desert-adjacent areas characterized by high aridity and pollution. We conducted a cross-sectional study with health examination data from over 2.9 million adults in two regions situated in the southern part of the Taklamakan Desert, China. We assessed three-year average concentrations (2018-2020) of particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5, and PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) through a space-time extra-trees model. After adjusting for various covariates, we employed generalized linear mixed models to evaluate the association between exposure to air pollutants and DM. The odds ratios for DM associated with a 10 µg/m3 increase in PM1, PM2.5, PM10, CO, and NO2 were 1.898 (95% CI: 1.741, 2.070), 1.07 (95% CI: 1.053, 1.086), 1.013 (95% CI: 1.008, 1.018), 1.009 (95% CI: 1.007, 1.011), and 1.337 (95% CI: 1.234, 1.449), respectively. Notably, men, individuals aged ≥50 years, those with lower educational attainment, nonsmokers, and those not engaging in physical exercise displayed more susceptible to the adverse effects of air pollution. Multiple sensitivity analyses confirmed the stability of these findings. Our study provides robust evidence of a correlation between prolonged exposure to air pollution and the prevalence of DM among individuals living in the desert-adjacent areas. This research contributes to the expanding knowledge on the relationship between air pollution exposure and DM prevalence in desert-adjacent areas.

Effects of different sizes of ambient particulate matter and household fuel use on physical function: National cohort study in China

BackgroundImpact of outdoor and household air pollution on physical function remains unelucidated. This study examined the influence of various ambient particulate sizes (PM1, PM2.5, and PM10) and household fuel usage on physical function. MethodsData from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) spanning 2011 and 2015 were utilized. The physical functional score was computed by summing scores from four tests: grip strength, gait speed, chair stand test, and balance. Multivariate linear and linear mixed-effects models were used to explore the separate and combined effects of PM1, PM2.5, PM10 and household fuel use on physical function in the cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses, respectively, and to further observe the effects of fuel cleanup on physical function in the context of air pollution exposure. ResultsBoth cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses revealed negative correlations between PM1 (β = −0.044; 95% CI: −0.084, −0.004), PM2.5 (β = −0.024; 95% CI: −0.046, −0.001), PM10 (β = −0.041; 95% CI: −0.054, −0.029), and physical function, with a more pronounced impact observed for fine particulate matter (PM1). Cleaner fuel use was associated with enhanced physical function compared to solid fuels (β = 0.143; 95% CI: 0.070, 0.216). The presence of air pollutants and use of solid fuels had a negative impact on physical function, while cleaner fuel usage mitigated the adverse effects of air pollutants, particularly in areas with high exposure. ConclusionThis study underscores the singular and combined detrimental effects of air pollutants and solid fuel usage on physical function. Addressing fine particulate matter, specifically PM1, and prioritizing efforts to improve household fuel cleanliness in regions with elevated air pollution levels are crucial for preventing physical disability.

Air pollution and neurological diseases, current state highlights.

This paper delves into the increasingly recognized yet complex relationship between air pollution and Neurological Diseases. Although the detrimental effects of air pollution on respiratory and cardiovascular health are well-documented, its impact on neurological and cognitive disorders is an emerging area of concern. In this mini review, we explore the intricate mechanisms by which various air pollutants, such as particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, contribute to neurological pathologies. The focus lies on the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in exacerbating conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. By unraveling these connections, the paper sheds light on the broader implications of environmental factors on neurological health and underscores the urgent need for policy interventions to mitigate air pollution's impact on the nervous system.

Assessment of the Impact of PM2.5 Air Pollution on River Dynamics: A Case Study of Daqing, China.

This study aims to explore the causal relationship between air pollution and river flow in Daqing City, specifically focusing on PM2.5 particle concentration. During comprehensive five-year research, a progressive decrease in air quality was seen, shown by a rise in the yearly average PM2.5 concentration from 13.4 µg/m³ to 18.7 µg/m³. This work utilizes hydrological modeling to reveal a strong negative association between the rise in PM2.5 concentration and the decline in river flow. The decline observed can be attributed to variations in solar radiation and surface temperature, which are clearly impacted by pollution. Ecological investigations showed that the decrease in river flow led to severe ecological impacts, including higher water temperature and alterations in nitrogen levels. This study emphasizes the crucial need to implement thorough environmental management strategies to successfully reduce the detrimental effects of air pollution on river ecosystems. This study enhances our comprehension of the intricate connection between air pollution and river dynamics, on both a regional scale and within the wider context of the southern hemisphere. It highlights the worldwide significance of safeguarding clean air and water resources.

Air pollutants, genetic susceptibility, and abdominal aortic aneurysm risk: a prospective study.

Air pollutants are important contributors to cardiovascular diseases, but associations between long-term exposure to air pollutants and the risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) are still unknown. This study was conducted using a sample of 449 463 participants from the UK Biobank. Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the risk of AAA incidence associated with long-term exposure to air pollutants were estimated using the Cox proportional hazards model with time-varying exposure measurements. Additionally, the cumulative incidence of AAA was calculated by using the Fine and Grey sub-distribution hazards regression model. Furthermore, this study investigated the combined effects and interactions between air pollutants exposure and genetic predisposition in relation to the risk of AAA onset. Long-term exposure to particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter <2.5 µm [PM2.5, 1.21 (1.16, 1.27)], particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter <10 µm [PM10, 1.21 (1.16, 1.27)], nitrogen dioxide [NO2, 1.16 (1.11, 1.22)], and nitrogen oxides [NOx, 1.10 (1.05, 1.15)] was found to be associated with an elevated risk of AAA onset. The detrimental effects of air pollutants persisted even in participants with low-level exposure. For the joint associations, participants with both high levels of air pollutants exposure and high genetic risk had a higher risk of developing AAA compared with those with low concentrations of pollutants exposure and low genetic risk. The respective risk estimates for AAA incidence were 3.18 (2.46, 4.12) for PM2.5, 3.09 (2.39, 4.00) for PM10, 2.41 (1.86, 3.13) for NO2, and 2.01 (1.55, 2.61) for NOx. In this study, long-term air pollutants exposure was associated with an increased risk of AAA incidence.

Ambient air pollution and the dynamic transitions of stroke and dementia: a population-based cohort study

Stroke and dementia are the leading causes of neurological disease burden. Detrimental effects of air pollution on both conditions are increasingly recognised, while the impacts on the dynamic transitions have not yet been explored, and whether critical time intervals exist is unknown. This prospective study was conducted based on the UK Biobank. Annual average air pollution concentrations at baseline year 2010 estimated by land-use regression models were used as a proxy for long-term air pollution exposure. Associations between multiple air pollutants (PM2.5, PM2.5-10, and NO2) indicated by air pollution score and the dynamic transitions of stroke and dementia were estimated, and the impacts during critical time intervals were explored. The date cutoff of this study was February 29,2020. During a median follow-up of 10.9 years in 413,372 participants, 6484, 3813, and 376 participants developed incident stroke, dementia, and comorbidity of stroke and dementia. For the overall transition from stroke to comorbid dementia, the hazard ratio (HR) for each interquartile range (IQR) increase in air pollution score was 1.38 (95% CI, 1.15, 1.65), and the risks were limited to two time intervals (within 1 year and over 5 years after stroke). As for the transition from dementia to comorbid stroke, increased risk was only observed during 2-3 years after dementia. Our findings suggested that air pollution played an important role in the dynamic transition of stroke and dementia even at concentrations below the current criteria. The findings provided new evidence for alleviating the disease burden of neurological disorders related to air pollution during critical time intervals. The State Scholarship Fund of China Scholarship Council.

The Environmental Pollution and Cardiovascular Risk: The Role of Health Surveillance and Legislative Interventions in Cardiovascular Prevention.

Environmental pollution in considered an established determinant of non-communicable illness, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Air pollution is the result of a complex combination of chemical, physical, and biological agents, and represents one of the main causes of mortality and morbidity in the world population. It is responsible for 7.6% of global mortality. In this regard, it has been documented that it increases the risk of CVDs and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. In northern regions of China, long-term exposures to the particulate matter < 2.5 µm (PM2.5) increase in the risk of ischemic heart disease by almost two-folds. Similarly, the additional risk for stroke, increases by almost 10% for long-term exposure to PM2.5. The detrimental effects of air pollution on cardiovascular system are particularly manifest in vulnerable subjects, such as the elderly, patients with heart disease, and obese individuals. Therefore, nowadays, cardiovascular prevention strategies, in addition to controlling traditional risk factors, should also include measures to improve the environment. This goal can be achieved by the implementation of the health surveillance in occupational medicine and by the extensive application of the national and international legislative measures. In fact, the health surveillance represents a crucial preventive measure for workers exposed to health risks (chemical, physical agents, etc.) that may lead to occupational diseases after long-term exposure. On the other hand, since environmental pollution does not recognize well-defined boundaries, only the implementation of regulations among large territorial areas can be useful to improve the quality of environment.

IOT-based solution for detection of air quality using ESP32

Air pollution, a growing public health crisis worldwide, has become one of the most imperative concerns challenging human health, the environment, and the economy. The detrimental effects of air pollution on individuals' well-being and the ecological system necessitate implementing advanced solutions to accurately monitor and manage air quality. In response to this global challenge, a comprehensive, real-time IoT-based air quality monitoring system is proposed using ESP32 and multiple pollutant sensors. This versatile system endeavors to measure and report various air quality parameters and pollutants, such as temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide (CO2), particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other noxious gases, including nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and sulfur dioxide (SO2). The innovative solution showcased in this proposal combines the functionalities of an ESP32 microcontroller, a highly integrated and low-power device, with diverse pollutant sensors chosen for their high sensitivity and ability to offer precise and reliable readings. The various sensors integrated into the system include the MQ135, CCS811, PMS5003, and BME280, each responsible for detecting specific pollutants and air quality parameters. As a leading component of the air quality monitoring system, the ESP32 microcontroller warrants seamless wireless data transmission to cloud servers for real-time monitoring, allowing for remote access and analysis of the air quality data through secure networks. The modular design and ease of deployment of the IoT-based air quality monitoring systems make them installable in various scenarios, including residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Users can make informed decisions about their environment by analyzing extensive real-time data, promoting timely exposure warnings, proactive pollution management, and environmental sustainability. This portability and versatility of deployment ensure substantial coverage of areas that would benefit from real-time air quality monitoring. The air quality monitoring system is further enhanced by incorporating a user-friendly mobile application or web interface, empowering users to access real-time sensor data directly, configure threshold-based alerts and notifications, and visualize trends in air quality parameters over time. This hands-on approach to accessing real-time air quality data encourages individuals to adopt environmentally conscious habits and fosters a better understanding of the impact of pollution on their health and surroundings. To ensure the optimum performance and efficacy of the air quality monitoring system, regular maintenance and calibration services are advocated. By undertaking timely sensor calibration, replacing worn-out components, and updating software when required, the life span, accuracy, and reliability of the system are enhanced, promising continued effectiveness in the real-time monitoring and management of air quality

Worsening air pollution an unfamiliar cause of low vitamin D levels: A systematic literature review

Air pollution is widely recognized as a future biohazard, yet its direct effects on human health, particularly in relation to bone health and vitamin D levels, are inadequately understood. While the detrimental impact on respiratory and cardiovascular health is well-documented, the correlation with vitamin D deficiency remains weak.&lt;br /&gt; To explore the relationship between air pollution and vitamin D levels, an extensive search of scientific literature was conducted. This comprehensive search encompassed databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, and DOAJ, while also examining the bibliographies of relevant articles. The inclusion criteria focused on studies that specifically investigated the association between air pollution and vitamin D levels, while excluding systematic reviews, case reports, editor's letters, and studies lacking pertinent explanations or causative factors. Each included study underwent rigorous evaluation of its methodological quality, with data extraction performed to assess the reliability and robustness of the evidence for each research question.&lt;br /&gt; The majority of studies have consistently demonstrated a negative correlation between ambient air pollution and vitamin D levels in humans. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain this relationship, including reduced exposure to sunlight due to increased air pollution, production of reactive oxygen particles, and inflammation leading to decreased vitamin D synthesis. Moreover, certain pollutants, such as particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide, have been found to have a more pronounced impact on vitamin D levels. Variables such as age, gender, season, and geographical location may also influence the association between air pollution and vitamin D levels. Lifestyle factors, including indoor confinement and pre-existing vitamin D deficiency, may exacerbate the detrimental effects of air pollution.&lt;br /&gt; In conclusion, air pollution detrimentally affects vitamin D levels primarily through increased body inflammation and the generation of free radicals. The presence of elevated levels of particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide further compounds this effect. Additionally, decreased cutaneous production of activated vitamin D, resulting from reduced ultraviolet B radiation penetration due to decreased Air Quality Index, contributes to the negative impact. Studies suggest that the intake of exogenous vitamin D supplements and adherence to a calcium-rich diet may confer benefits to individuals residing in highly polluted areas. To address this issue, public health policies should emphasize outdoor exposure to sunlight, promote healthy dietary choices, and reduce overall exposure to pollutants.

Low-cost IoT sensors reveal adverse health outcomes associated with air pollution exposure

Abstract Background Air pollution is a major public health threat and has been linked to various adverse health effects including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and coarse particulate matter (PM10) are two major components of air pollution that are significant contributors to these health outcomes. With the advent of low-cost sensors, accurate measurement of exposure has become possible, allowing for better assessment of the impact of air pollution exposure on human health. Methods To investigate the association between air pollution exposure and illnesses resulting in hospital visits, IoT sensors were deployed in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, to measure PM2.5 and PM10 levels from 2018-2021. Health data was obtained from the Mongolian National Center for Public Health. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate overall odds ratios for the associations between daily PM2.5 and PM10 exposure and the occurrence of illnesses, adjusting for age and sex. Results The unadjusted odds ratio for the association between PM10 exposure and acute respiratory illnesses was 1.3, while the unadjusted odds ratio for PM2.5 exposure was 1.2; decreasing to 1.2 and 1.1 respectively after adjusting for age and sex (p &amp;lt; 0.05). These findings are consistent with previous studies and highlight the significant impact of air pollution on the occurrence of acute respiratory illnesses. The use of IoT sensors allowed for accurate assessment of air pollution exposure in the study population. Conclusions This study provides further evidence of the detrimental effects of air pollution on human health, particularly on the occurrence of acute respiratory illnesses. These findings highlight the importance of continued efforts to reduce air pollution levels. Accurate measurement of exposure rates using IoT sensors can aid in identifying and addressing sources of air pollution to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities affected by this health threat. Key messages • This study shows the significant impact of air pollution on acute respiratory illnesses, highlighting the importance of reducing air pollution levels. • Accurate measurement of air pollution exposure using IoT sensors can aid in identifying and addressing sources of air pollution to improve public health.

Association between short-term air pollution exposure and traumatic intracranial hemorrhage: pilot evidence from Taiwan.

The detrimental effects of air pollution on the brain are well established. However, few studies have examined the effect of air pollution on traumatic brain injury (TBI). This pilot study evaluated the association between short-term air pollution exposure and traumatic intracranial hemorrhage (TIH). Hospital data of patients with TBI following road traffic accidents were retrospectively collected from the electronic medical records at five trauma centers in Taiwan between 1 January and 31 December 2017. TIH was employed as an outcome measure. All road accident locations were geocoded, and air quality data were collected from the nearest monitoring stations. Air pollutants were entered into five multivariable models. A sensitivity analysis was performed on patients who are vulnerable to suffering TBI after road accidents, including motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Among 730 patients with TBI, 327 had TIH. The ages of ≥65 [odds ratio (OR), 3.24; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.85-5.70], 45-64 (OR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.64-4.15), and 25-44 (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.13-2.84) years were identified as significant risk factors in the multivariable analysis. In the best-fit multivariable model, exposure to higher concentrations of particulate matter ≤ 2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5) was associated with an elevated TIH risk (OR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.17-1.94). The concentration of nitrogen oxides (NOX) did not increase the risk of TIH (OR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.32-0.61). After categorizing the air pollution concentration according to quartile, the trend tests in the multivariate model showed that the concentrations of PM2.5 and NOX were significant (p = 0.017 and p < 0.001, respectively). There was a negative borderline significant association between temperature and TIH risk (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.56-1.00, p = 0.05). Notably, the single-vehicle crash was a significant risk factor (OR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.30-3.42) for TIH. High PM2.5 concentrations and low temperatures are risk factors for TIH in patients with TBI. High NOX concentrations are associated with a lower TIH risk.

Estimating the Mean of PM2.5 with Missing Data in the Area Around Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand Using the Improved Compromised Imputation Method

Particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 m or , is one of the air pollutants that has been found to be at unsafe levels for a number of years in Thailand, leading to public health concerns. In order to lessen the detrimental effects of air pollution, monitoring and analysis of concentration are crucial. Following the study of data from the Pollution Control Department Report in the area around the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand in January 2019, it was found that there was data missing in the information. It is well-known that missing data can reduce the accuracy of data analysis. To solve the missing data problem, this paper proposes an improved method of compromised imputation and a corresponding resultant estimator to deal with estimating the mean of concentrations in the area. The bias and mean square error of the estimator obtained from the proposed method were derived. The conditions which favor the performance of our estimator over other estimators obtained from the mean, ratio, and compromised imputation methods were obtained using mean square error to apply in the area. The mean of concentrations in this case using the proposed estimator was equal to 47.13 g/m3, indicating that it did not exceed unsafe levels (&lt;50 g/m3) under certain conditions. In order to support more accurate data analysis that will lead to effective management of air pollution problems in the future, this research proposes a new method that is more effective than the existing methods under missing data problem.

Chronic exposure to ambient PM2.5/NO2 and respiratory health in school children: A prospective cohort study in Hong Kong

Despite increasing concerns about the detrimental effects of air pollution on respiratory health, limited evidence is available on these effects in the Hong Kong population, especially in children. In this prospective cohort study between 2012 and 2017, we aimed to investigate the associations between exposure to air pollution (concentrations of fine particulate matter [PM2.5] and nitrogen dioxide [NO2]) and respiratory health (lung function parameters and respiratory diseases and symptoms) in schoolchildren. We recruited 5612 schoolchildren aged 6–16 years in Hong Kong. We estimated the annual average concentrations of ambient PM2.5 and NO2 at each participant’s address using spatiotemporal models. We conducted spirometry tests on all participants to measure their lung function parameters and used a self-administered questionnaire to collect information on their respiratory diseases and symptoms and a wide range of covariates. Linear mixed models were used to investigate the associations between exposure to air pollution and lung function. Mixed-effects logistic regression models with random effects were used to investigate the associations of exposure to air pollution with respiratory diseases and symptoms. In all of the participants, every 5-μg/m3 increase in the ambient PM2.5 concentration was associated with changes of − 13.90 ml (95 % confidence interval [CI]: −23.65 ml, −4.10 ml), − 4.20 ml (−15.60 ml, 7.15 ml), 27.20 ml/s (−3.95 ml/s, 58.35 ml/s), and − 19.80 ml/s (−38.35 ml/s, −1.25 ml/s) in forced expiratory volume in 1 s, forced vital capacity, peak expiratory flow, and maximal mid-expiratory flow, respectively. The corresponding lung function estimates for every 5-μg/m3 increase in the ambient NO2 concentration were − 2.70 ml (−6.05 ml, 0.60 ml), − 1.40 ml (−5.40 ml, 2.60 ml), − 6.60 ml/s (−19.75 ml/s, 6.55 ml/s), and − 3.05 ml/s (−11.10 ml/s, 5.00 ml/s), respectively. We did not observe significant associations between PM2.5/NO2 exposure and most respiratory diseases and symptoms. Stratified analyses by sex and age showed that the associations between exposure to air pollution and lung function parameters were stronger in male participants and older participants (11–14 year old group) than in female participants and younger participants (6–10 year old group), respectively. Our results suggest that chronic exposure to air pollution is detrimental to the respiratory health of schoolchildren, especially that of older boys. Our findings reinforce the importance of air pollution mitigation to protect schoolchildren’s respiratory health.

Air Pollution: A Review of Its Impacts on Health and Ecosystems, and Analytical Techniques for Their Measurement and Modeling

Air pollution is a significant global problem that affects human health and the natural environment. This research article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the impacts of air pollution on health and ecosystems and present various analytical techniques used for its measurement and modeling. The study uses a systematic review method to identify and evaluate research articles that deal with air pollution, its impacts on health and ecosystems, analytical techniques, and modeling that are only available in English and published between 2012 and 2023. The findings outlined in this article contribute to an enhanced understanding of the detrimental effects of air pollution and provide insights into effective monitoring and mitigation strategies. In conclusion, by implementing effective policies, adopting clean technologies, promoting sustainable practices, and raising awareness, we can mitigate the impacts of air pollution and create a healthier and more sustainable future.