The Surprising Connection between Airborne Particles and Health: Insights from a Global Study

Airborne particles can greatly affect a person’s health, especially for those with seasonal allergies. Pollen and other allergens can cause discomfort and health problems for many people. While pollen counts and allergy indices are well-documented and easily accessible, there is limited information available on cancer-causing trace elements like lead and arsenic in urban areas of developing countries.

Recently, a team led by Randall Martin at Washington University in St. Louis analyzed global ambient particulate matter (PM) to understand its components, mineral dust, and trace element oxides. These trace elements are known for their negative health effects and are mainly emitted through human activities such as fossil fuel combustion and industrial processes. The study used data from the Surface Particulate Matter Network (SPARTAN), the only global monitoring network that measures PM elemental composition.

Their research, published in ES&T Air on March 10, provided valuable insights into regions with elevated traces of these harmful elements. The study identified American, Indian, and Vietnamese regions as areas of concern that could benefit from interventions to reduce trace element emissions from human activities. This work could pave the way for future efforts to improve air quality in developing countries.

For more information on this topic, visit the McKelvey Engineering website.