Effects of Airborne Particulate Matter on Respiratory Health in a Community near a Cement Factory in Chilanga, Zambia: Results from a Panel Study

Peaks, sources, and immediate health impacts of PM2.5 and PM1 exposure in Indonesia and Taiwan with microsensors

BACKGROUND

Microsensors have been used for the high-resolution particulate matter (PM) monitoring.

OBJECTIVES

This study applies PM and health microsensors with the objective of assessing the peak exposure, sources, and immediate health impacts of PM2.5 and PM1 in two Asian countries.

METHODS

Exposure assessment and health evaluation were carried out for 50 subjects in 2018 and 2019 in Bandung, Indonesia and for 55 subjects in 2019 and 2020 in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Calibrated AS-LUNG sets and medical-certified RootiRx® sensors were used to assess PM and heart-rate variability (HRV), respectively.

RESULTS

Overall, the 5-min mean exposure of PM2.5 and PM1 was 30.4 ± 20.0 and 27.0 ± 15.7 µg/m3 in Indonesia and 14.9 ± 11.2 and 13.9 ± 9.8 µg/m3 in Taiwan, respectively. The maximum 5-min peak PM2.5 and PM1 exposures were 473.6 and 154.0 µg/m3 in Indonesia and 467.4 and 217.7 µg/m3 in Taiwan, respectively. Community factories and mosquito coil burning are the two most important exposure sources, resulting in, on average, 4.73 and 5.82 µg/m3 higher PM2.5 exposure increments for Indonesian subjects and 10.1 and 9.82 µg/m3 higher PM2.5 exposure for Taiwanese subjects compared to non-exposure periods, respectively. Moreover, agricultural waste burning and incense burning were another two important exposure sources, but only in Taiwan. Furthermore, 5-min PM2.5 and PM1 exposure had statistically significantly immediate impacts on the HRV indices and heart rates of all subjects in Taiwan and the scooter subjects in Indonesia with generalized additive mixed models. The HRV change for a 10 µg/m3 increase in PM2.5 and PM1 ranged from -0.9% to -2.5% except for ratio of low-high frequency, with greater impacts associated with PM1 than PM2.5 in both countries.

IMPACT STATEMENT

This work highlights the ability of microsensors to capture high peaks of PM2.5 and PM1, to identify exposure sources through the integration of activity records, and to assess immediate changes in heart rate variability for a panel of approximately 50 subjects in Indonesia and Taiwan. This study stands out as one of the few to demonstrate the immediate health impacts of peak PM, complementing to the short-term (days or weeks) or long-term effects (months or longer) assessed in most epidemiological studies. The technology/methodology employed offer great potential for researchers in the resource-limited countries with high PM2.5 and PM1 levels.

The impact of environmental conditions on non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review of epidemiologic evidence

Background

The burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is increasing. Environmental conditions such as heavy metals and air pollution have been linked with the incidence and mortality of chronic diseases such as cancer, as well as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. We aimed to scope the current state of evidence on the impact of environmental conditions on NCDs in SSA.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review to identify environmental conditions linked with NCDs in SSA by identifying studies published from January 1986 through February 2023. We searched African Index Medicus, Ovid Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Greenfile. Using the PICOS study selection criteria, we identified studies conducted in SSA focussed on physical environmental exposures and incidence, prevalence, and mortality of NCDs. We included only epidemiologic or quantitative studies.

Results

We identified 6754 articles from electronic database searches; only 36 met our inclusion criteria and were qualitatively synthesised. Two studies were conducted in multiple SSA countries, while 34 were conducted across ten countries in SSA. Air pollution (58.3%) was the most common type of environmental exposure reported, followed by exposure to dust (19.4%), meteorological variables (13.8%), heavy metals (2.7%), soil radioactivity (2.7%), and neighbourhood greenness (2.7%). The examined NCDs included respiratory diseases (69.4%), cancer (2.7%), stroke (5.5%), diabetes (2.7%), and two or more chronic diseases (19.4%). The study results suggest an association between environmental exposures and NCDs, particularly for respiratory diseases. Only seven studies found a null association between environmental conditions and chronic diseases.

Conclusions

There is a growing body of research on environmental conditions and chronic diseases in the SSA region. Although some cities in SSA have started implementing environmental monitoring and control measures, there remain high levels of environmental pollution. Investment can focus on improving environmental control measures and disease surveillance.

Quantification of ambient PM2.5 concentrations adjacent to informal brick kilns in the Vhembe District using low-cost sensors

The widespread exposure to ambient PM2.5 poses a substantial health risk globally, with a more pronounced impact on low- to medium-income nations. This study investigates the spatiotemporal distribution of PM2.5 in the communities hosting informal brickmaking industries in Vhembe District. Utilizing Dylos DC1700, continuous monitoring of PM2.5 was conducted at nine stations adjacent to informal brick kilns from March 2021 to February 2022. The study determined the correction factor for PM2.5 measurements obtained from the Dylos DC1700 when it was collocated with the GRIMM Environmental Dust Monitor 180. Additionally, the diurnal and seasonal variations across monitoring stations were assessed, and potential PM2.5 sources were identified. The study also evaluated the compliance of ambient PM2.5 concentrations across the stations with the South African National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) limits. Annual PM2.5 concentrations for the stations ranged from 22.6 to 36.2 μgm-3. Diurnal patterns exhibited peak concentrations in the morning and evening, while seasonal variations showed higher concentrations in winter and lower concentrations in summer and spring. All monitoring stations reported the highest daily exceedance with respect to the daily NAAQS limit in the winter. Major PM2.5 sources included domestic biomass combustion, vehicular emissions, industrial emissions, and construction sites. Well-calibrated low-cost sensors could be employed in suburb regions with scarce air quality data. Findings from the study could be used for developing mitigation strategies to reduce health risks associated with PM2.5 exposure in the area.

A meta-analysis of particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide air quality monitoring associated with the burden of disease in sub-Saharan Africa

Exposure to air pollution is a fundamental obstacle that makes it complex to realize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 3) for good health and wellbeing. It is for this reason that air pollution has been characterized as the global environmental health risk facing the current generation. The risks of air pollution on morbidity, and life expectancy are well documented. This feeds directly to the substantial body of the literature that exists regarding the burden of diseases associated with ambient air pollution. However, the bulk of this literature originates from developed countries. Whilst most of the sub-Saharan African studies extrapolate literature from developed countries to contextualize the risks of elevated air pollution exposure levels associated with the burden of disease. However, extrapolation of epidemiological evidence from developed countries is problematic given that it disregards the social vulnerability. Therefore, given this observation, it is ideal to evaluate if the monitoring executions of hazardous particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide do take into consideration the concerted necessary efforts to associate monitored air pollution exposure levels with the burden of disease. Therefore, based on this background, the current meta-analysis evaluated air quality monitoring associated with the burden of disease across sub-Saharan Africa. To this extent, the current meta-analysis strictly included peer-reviewed published journal articles from the sub-Saharan African regions to gain insight on air quality monitoring associated with the burden of disease. The collected meta-analysis data was captured and subsequently analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2019. This program facilitated the presentation of the meta-analysis data in the form of graphs and numerical techniques. Generally, the results indicate that the sub-Saharan Africa is characterized by a substantial gap in the number of regional studies that evaluate the burden of disease in relation with exposure to air quality.Implications: The work presented here is an original contribution and provides a comprehensive yet succinct overview of the monitoring associated with the burden of disease in sub-Saharan Africa. The author explores if the monitoring executions of hazardous particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide do take into considerations the concerted necessary efforts to associate monitored air pollution exposure levels with the burden of disease. The manuscript includes the most relevant and current literature in a field of study that has not received a deserving degree of research attention in recent years. This is especially true in sub-Saharan Africa, characterized by insufficient monitoring of air quality exposure concentrations.

Assessment of particulate matter exposure on ambient air and its impact on workers at two granite quarry mines at Njuli, Southern Malawi

Quarrying activities are among the significant sources of pollution caused by particulate matter (PM) in ambient air. Besides affecting the environment, PM exposure is one of the leading causes of respiratory illnesses worldwide. The current study, unique to Malawi, aimed to understand the impact of particulate matter on ambient air and the possible effects on workers' health at Njuli in Blantyre and Chiradzulu districts. The study measured concentrations of particulate matter in ambient air, conducted a chemical analysis of fallen dust, and surveyed respiratory symptoms. Results showed higher exposures to particulate matter at a Terrastone mine (126 µg/m3 highest exposure) than a Mota Engil mine (83 µg/m3 highest exposure), attributed to poor management practices at Terrastone mine. Higher PM readings (0-85.98 µg/m3) were observed for sites located downwind of the mines than sites located upwind (0-59 µg/m3), demonstrating the impact of quarrying operations at the mines; differences were, however, not statistically significant (P 0.165, Terrastone, P 0.678 Mota Engil). The observed amount of PM in ambient air was consistent with the scale of quarrying and processing operations at both mines, 0-56.2 µg/m3 in pre-operational phases, 0-126.1 µg/m3 during operations, and 0-56 µg/m3 after closure of operations; differences were statistically significant only at Terrastone mine P 0.003. The impact of season variation was observed following lower PM readings recorded during the rainy season than those obtained during the dry season at both mines. Analysis of health symptoms revealed that a higher proportion of workers at the Terrastone mine experienced respiratory symptoms compared to the Mota Engil mine.

Respiratory protective effects of Korean Red Ginseng in a mouse model of particulate matter 4-induced airway inflammation

Background

Air pollution has led to an increased exposure of all living organisms to fine dust. Therefore, research efforts are being made to devise preventive and therapeutic remedies against fine dust-induced chronic diseases.

Methods

Research of the respiratory protective effects of KRG extract in a particulate matter (PM; aerodynamic diameter of <4 μm) plus diesel exhaust particle (DEP) (PM4+D)-induced airway inflammation model. Nitric oxide production, expression of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines, and IRAK-1, TAK-1, and MAPK pathways were examined in PM4-stimulated MH-S cells. BALB/c mice exposed to PM4+D mixture by intranasal tracheal injection three times a day for 12 days at 3 day intervals and KRGE were administered orally for 12 days. Histological of lung and trachea, and immune cell subtype analyses were performed. Expression of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lung were measured. Immunohistofluorescence staining for IRAK-1 localization in lung were also evaluated.

Results

KRGE inhibited the production of nitric oxide, the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines, and expression and phosphorylation of all downstream factors of NF-κB, including IRAK-1 and MAPK/AP1 pathway in PM4-stimulated MH-S cells. KRGE suppressed inflammatory cell infiltration and number of immune cells, histopathologic damage, and inflammatory symptoms in the BALF and lungs induced by PM4+D; these included increased alveolar wall thickness, accumulation of collagen fibers, and TNF-α, MIP2, CXCL-1, IL-1α, and IL-17 cytokine release. Moreover, PM4 participates induce alveolar macrophage death and interleukin-1α release by associating with IRAK-1 localization was also potently inhibited by KRGE in the lungs of PM4+D-induced airway inflammation model. KRGE suppresses airway inflammatory responses, including granulocyte infiltration into the airway, by regulating the expression of chemokines and inflammatory cytokines via inhibition of IRAK-1 and MAPK pathway. Conclusion: Our results indicate the potential of KRGE to serve as an effective therapeutic agent against airway inflammation and respiratory diseases.

Lactobacillus paracasei ATG-E1 improves particulate matter 10 plus diesel exhaust particles (PM10D)-induced airway inflammation by regulating immune responses

Particulate matter (PM) exposure can adversely affect respiratory function. Probiotics can alleviate the inflammatory responses in respiratory diseases. We examined the protective effects of Lactobacillus paracasei ATG-E1 isolated from the feces of a newborn baby against airway inflammation in a PM₁₀ plus diesel exhaust particle (DEP) (PM₁₀D)-induced airway inflammation model. BALB/c mice were exposed to PM₁₀D by intranasal injection three times at 3-day intervals for 12 days, and L. paracasei ATG-E1 was administered orally for 12 days. Analysis of immune cell population and expression of various inflammatory mediators and gut barrier-related genes were determined in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), lung, peyer's patch, and small intestine. A histological analysis of the lungs was performed. In addition, the in vitro safety and their safety in genomic analyses were examined. L. paracasei ATG-E1 was found to be safe in vitro and by genomic analysis. L. paracasei ATG-E1 suppressed neutrophil infiltration and the number of CD4⁺, CD4⁺CD69⁺, CD62L^-CD44^+high, CD21/35⁺B220⁺, and Gr-1⁺CD11b⁺ cells, as well as the expression of inflammatory mediators, including chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL)-1, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-2, interleukin (IL)-17a, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-6 in BALF and lungs in PM₁₀D-induced airway inflammation. It protected against histopathological damage in the lungs of mice with PM₁₀D-induced airway inflammation. L. paracasei ATG-E1 concomitantly increased the expression levels of the gut barrier function-related genes occludin, claudin-1, and IL-10 in the small intestine, with an increased number of CD4⁺ and CD4⁺CD25⁺ immune cells in the peyer's patch. L. paracasei ATG-E1 suppressed immune activation and airway inflammatory responses in the airways and lungs by restoring the lung damage by PM₁₀D. It also regulated intestinal immunity and ameliorated the gut barrier function in the ileum. These results indicate the potential of L. paracasei ATG-E1 as an protective and therapeutic agent against airway inflammation and respiratory diseases.

Ambient Air Pollution and Cardiorespiratory Outcomes amongst Adults Residing in Four Informal Settlements in the Western Province of South Africa

Few studies have investigated the relationship between ambient air pollution and cardiorespiratory outcomes in Africa. A cross-sectional study comprising of 572 adults from four informal settlements in the Western Cape, South Africa was conducted. Participants completed a questionnaire adapted from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey, and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey questionnaire. Exposure estimates were previously modelled using Land-Use Regression for Particulate Matter (PM_2.5) and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) at participants' homes. The median age of the participants was 40.7 years, and 88.5% were female. The median annual NO₂ level was 19.7 µg/m³ (interquartile range [IQR: 9.6-23.7]) and the median annual PM_2.5 level was 9.7 µg/m³ (IQR: 7.3-12.4). Logistic regression analysis was used to assess associations between outcome variables and air pollutants. An interquartile range increase of 5.12 µg/m³ in PM_2.5 was significantly associated with an increased prevalence of self-reported chest-pain, [Odds ratio: 1.38 (95% CI: 1.06-1.80)], adjusting for NO₂, and other covariates. The study found preliminary circumstantial evidence of an association between annual ambient PM_2.5 exposure and self-reported chest-pain (a crude proxy of angina-related pain), even at levels below the South African National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

Characterization and Hazard Identification of Respirable Cement and Concrete Dust from Construction Activities

Construction is an important segment of the economy that employs millions of people. Construction dust is an occupational health hazard to millions of construction workers worldwide. The hazards associated with respirable dust depend upon its particulate size distribution and chemical composition, as these determine the deposition pattern in the respiratory tract and reactivity, respectively. This study presents characterization of the size and composition of the dust from two key construction materials-cast cement and poured concrete. The dust was generated by cutting the cured cement and concrete blocks using an 18" hand-held circular saw as used in highway and building construction. Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and laser diffraction were performed for the size analysis of the particles. Energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used for chemical analysis. X-ray diffraction was used for phase identification. Electron diffraction patterns were obtained to assess the crystallinity of individual particles. They confirm the crystallinity of particles of different size and shapes. With a particle size range between 0.5 μm and 10 μm, greater than 90% of particles fell below 2.5 μm, presenting a respirable health concern. Crystalline compounds including the metals Al, Ca, Fe, Mg, Na, and K were detected. The concrete particles were most enriched in crystalline silica with a concentration of more than 30% by weight. The presence of metals and high crystalline silica content pose a serious health concern to construction workers.

Dust Emission Monitoring in Cement Plant Mills: A Case Study in Romania

This paper presents aspects of monitoring material dust emissions from stationary emission sources (monthly dust measurements performed on cement mill stacks-mill outlet and separator outlet). Additionally, the Portland cement mill technological process (its component parts), as well as the solutions regarding the reduction of the air emissions level, following the emission limit values (VLE), established in the integrated environmental authorization (AIM) from a cement factory in Romania, were analyzed. The paper focused on analyzing the data obtained in three different years for PM10 and dust concentrations (2018-2020). For each year, the measurements have been done in 3 months, each in a different season. The average values for each year for working conditions were: 30.22 mg/m³ (2018), 27.38 mg/m³ (2019), and 27.51 mg/m³ (2020) for working conditions and for normal conditions: 34.22 mg/m³ (2018), 30.49 mg/m³ (2019), and 30.16 mg/m³ (2020). For all 3 years, the values measured in spring were higher than the other two, both for work and normal conditions.

Community Health Risk Assessment of Total Suspended Particulates near a Cement Plant in Maros Regency, Indonesia

BACKGROUND

Cement plants generate particulate matter (PM) across processes from raw material preparation to packaging. The presence of total suspended particulates (TSP) coming out of the stack causes a high accumulation of dust in residential areas. Human exposure to TSP could affect human health and wellbeing.

OBJECTIVES

The present study aims to evaluate concentrations of TSP and to estimate the health risks of TSP exposure through the inhalation pathway in communities surrounding a private cement industry in Maros regency, Indonesia.

METHODS

Total suspended particulates were collected using a high-volume air sampler (HVAS) at five locations. Samples were taken by grab sampling for 24 hours. The SCREEN3 program was used to view the maximum range and distribution of pollutants based on the geographical, stack profiles and meteorological factors in the study area. Hazard quotient (HQ) was used to estimate non-carcinogenic risks of TSP in surrounding communities.

RESULTS

Total suspended particulate concentrations were measured with a maximum value of 133.24 μg/m³ and a minimum value of 18.48 μg/m³. This maximum value exceeds the minimum acceptable level from Canadian National Ambient Air Quality Objectives (C-NAAQOs). The non-carcinogenic risks from the inhalation pathway were low except for location 3 (HQ>1) across all locations.

CONCLUSIONS

The cement plant may significantly contribute to total TSP concentrations in air and may potentially have adverse effects on human health. Communities near the cement plant are vulnerable to TSP exposure and measures are needed to reduce TSP in Maros regency, Indonesia.

PARTICIPANT CONSENT

Obtained.

ETHICS APPROVAL

This study was approved by the Health Research Ethics Committee of Hasanuddin University with protocol number 28920093022.

COMPETING INTERESTS

The authors declare no competing financial interests.

Consequences of cement dust exposure on pulmonary function in cement factory workers

BACKGROUND

Several health conditions are associated with cement dust exposure; obstructive and restrictive lung disorders are the most common consequences. The aims of this study were to assess the pulmonary function of cement factory workers and to determine the distribution of respiratory consequences resulting from dust inhalation.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with convenience sampling was undertaken from December 2019 to March 2020. A total of 97 (response rate, 92.4%) nonsmoking male cement workers were recruited and compared with 97 apparently healthy volunteers. A spirometer was used to measure forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁ ), and their ratio (FEV₁ /FVC). The measured parameters were interpreted according to American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society guidelines.

RESULTS

Significant reductions were observed in pulmonary function parameters of cement factory workers compared to controls (FVC 4.03 vs. 4.65 L in controls; FEV₁ 3.06 vs. 3.95 L in controls; p < 0.001 for both comparisons). A significant variation was observed in the prevalence of spirometric patterns between the two participating groups. Ninety (92.8%) controls had normal respiratory function with no defects, compared with only 25 (25.8%) of the cement workers. Restriction was the most common respiratory problem, with a greater prevalence in the cement workers (44 [45.4%]) compared to six (6.2%) controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Cement factory workers showed decreased lung function and abnormal spirometric patterns which we attribute to dust inhalation. These workers should have periodic medical examinations and regular rotations through different factory departments to minimize the pulmonary hazards of cement dust.

Measurements of Local Sources of Particulates with a Portable Monitor along the Coast of an Insular City

The air quality of modern cities is considered an important factor for the quality of life of humans and therefore is being safeguarded by various international organizations, concentrating on the mass concentration of particulate matter (PM) with an aerodynamic diameter less than 10, 2.5 and 1 μm. However, the different physical and anthropogenic processes and activities within the city contribute to the rise of fine (<1 μm) and coarse (>1 μm) particles, directly impacting human health and the environment. In order to monitor certain natural and anthropogenic events, suspecting their significant contribution to PM concentrations, seven different events taking place on the coastal front of the city of Limassol (Cyprus) were on-site monitored using a portable PM instrument; these included both natural (e.g., dust event) and anthropogenic (e.g., cement factory, meat festival, tall building construction, tire factory, traffic jam, dust road) emissions taking place in spring and summer periods. The violations of the limits that were noticed were attributed mainly to the various anthropogenic activities taking place on-site, revealing once more the need for further research and continuous monitoring of air quality.

[Granulomatous pleuritis and chylothorax caused by calcite inhalation in a Galgo Español dog]

A 6-year-old, male Galgo Español dog was presented with severe dyspnea. Radiography and ultrasonography revealed pleural effusion. Approximately 4 l of a milky and slightly reddish fluid were aspirated and drained from the thoracic cavity. Clinical chemistry examination of the fluid indicated a modified transudate with a high amount of triglycerides. On cytological examination, degenerated neutrophilic granulocytes, small lymphocytes, macrophages and chylomicrons were found. A chest tube was placed and computed tomography was performed, which indicated thickening of parietal and visceral pleura and enlargement of the sternal lymph node without abnormal findings in the lungs. During subsequent thoracoscopy disseminated proliferative masses, appearing as small white nodules, covering nearly the entire pleural surface were found and biopsies were taken for further analysis. Histopathologic diagnosis was a granulomatous pleuritis with intralesional birefringent foreign material. Energy dispensive x-ray emission analysis was used to determine the origin of the material. Scanning electron microscopy revealed high amounts of calcium containing foreign material (calcite) within the granulomas. An extended clinical history of the dog gave evidence that the animal had lived next to a construction site 15 months earlier and may well have inhaled the calcium-containing dust. Treatment with prednisolone was initiated, however the dog developed gastro-intestinal side effects and treatment was stalled after 10 weeks. Dyspnea and liquidothorax re-occurred 4 months later. A further attempt of immunosupressive treatment was commenced, using a combination of prednisolone and ciclosporine, which again was not tolerated by the patient. The dog finally developed pneumonia and was euthanized by the owner's request.

Levels of PM10 and PM2.5 and Respiratory Health Impacts on School-Going Children in Kenya

BACKGROUND

The respiratory system of children is vulnerable to exposure to particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of less than 2.5 and 10 μm (PM2.5 and PM10) or even lower.

OBJECTIVE

This study assessed PM10 and PM2.5 levels and respiratory health impacts on children in schools located in an industrialized suburb in Kenya.

METHOD

The PM10 and PM2.5 levels were sampled from five public primary schools in Athi River Township and a control school during the wet and dry seasons. Outdoor and classroom samples were collected concurrently on an 8-hour mean during school hours on two consecutive days in each school and analyzed using gravimetric techniques. Five hundred and seventy-eight (n = 578) pupils aged 9-14 years from these schools were also evaluated for symptoms of respiratory illnesses and lung function using a questionnaire and spirometric method, respectively, during the same periods.

RESULTS

Indoor median PM10 levels (μg/m3) ranged from 60.8-269.1 and 52.8-232.3 and PM2.5 values (μg/m3) of 17.7-52.4 and 28.5-75.5 during the dry and wet seasons, respectively. The control classrooms had significantly (p <0.05) lower median PM10 levels (μg/m3) of 5.2 and 4.2, and PM2.5 levels (μg/m3) of 3.5 and 3.0 during the respective seasons. Nearly all the classrooms in Athi River schools had PM2.5 and PM10 median levels that exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended levels. The indoor-to-outdoor ratios varied from 0.35-1.40 and 0.80-2.40 for PM10 and 0.30-0.80 and 0.80-1.40 for PM2.5 during the dry and wet seasons, respectively, suggesting higher levels in the classrooms during the wet season. The relative risk (RR) and odds ratio (OR) presented higher prevalence of respiratory diseases following PM exposure in all the Athi River schools than the control during the dry and wet seasons. At 95% CI, the RR and OR showed strong associations between high PM10 and PM2.5 levels and lung function deficits and vice versa. The association was more prevalent during the wet season.

CONCLUSIONS

The study calls for effective indoor air management programs in school environments to reduce PM exposure and respiratory health impacts.

PARTICIPANT CONSENT

Obtained.

ETHICS APPROVAL

The research permit and approvals were obtained from the University of Nairobi/Kenyatta National Hospital Ethics and Research Committee (KNH-UoN ERC Reference: P599/08/2016) and the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (Reference: NACOSTI/P/18/4268/25724).

COMPETING INTERESTS

The authors declare no competing financial interests.

Lung Function and Respiratory Health of Populations Living Close to Quarry Sites in Palestine: A Cross-Sectional Study

Environmental exposure to dust from quarrying activities could pose health dangers to the population living nearby. This study aimed to investigate the health effects of dust exposure on people living close to quarry sites and compared them with those who live far from the quarry sites. A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted among 79 exposed participants, who lived less than 500 m away from the quarry sites, and 79 control participants who lived more than 500 m away. All participants answered a questionnaire on dust exposure at home and health effects, as well as performed a lung function test in which both reported and measured health effects were investigated. People who live in close proximity to the quarry sites reported exposure to dust at home (98%), land destruction (85%), plant leaves covered with dust (97%), and an inability to grow crops (92%). The exposed group reported significantly higher eye and nasal allergy (22% vs. 3%), eye soreness (18% vs. 1%), and dryness (17% vs. 3%), chest tightness (9% vs. 1%), and chronic cough (11% vs. 0%) compared to the control group. Lung function parameters were significantly lower among the exposed group compared to the control group; mean forced vital capacity (FVC) was 3.35 L vs. 3.71 L (p = 0.001), mean forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV₁) was 2.78 L vs. 3.17 L (p = 0.001). Higher levels of airway restriction were found among the exposed group. Among the exposed group, lung function parameters worsened with the increasing closeness of home to the quarry site. This study demonstrates the negative health effects of environmental dust exposure among two communities living near quarry sites in Palestine. The results highlight the importance of developing and strictly enforcing rules and regulations in Palestine to protect population health.

Effects of ambient PM2.5 and particle-bound metals on the healthy residents living near an electric arc furnace: A community- based study

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) emitted from electric arc furnaces (EAFs) poses health concerns. However, little research has been done on the impact of EAF on the health of community residents. This cross-sectional study conducted a PM_2.5 exposure assessment and health examination of community residents living near an EAF. A total of 965 residents aged 40-90 years were recruited. The residents' exposure to PM_2.5 was categorized according to the distance of their residence from the EAFs (<500, 500-1000, 1000-1500, 1500-2000, and > 2000 m). Average ambient PM_2.5 concentrations were estimated using a hybrid kriging/land-use regression (LUR) model. In addition, we selected two air-sampling sites to monitor the 2-year levels of PM_2.5 and particle-bound metals. A spot urine sample and blood samples were collected and ten heavy metal concentrations in the blood were analyzed. Inflammation- and oxidative stress-related biomarkers were measured. The associations between environmental factors and a biochemical examination were estimated using a generalized linear model. Active air sampling and hybrid kriging/LUR model simulation indicated increased levels of PM_2.5 near the EAF. The metal concentrations in PM_2.5 included Fe, Pb, Mn, Ni, As, Cu, Ni, Zn, and Al, which also significantly increased near the EAF. PM_2.5 levels were significantly associated with an increased total cholesterol-high-density lipoprotein (TC/HDL) ratio. High levels of PM_2.5 and malondialdehyde were associated with a 1.72-fold increased risk of TC/HDL ratio ≥ 4 (95% CI: 1.12-2.65) after adjusting for potential confounding factors. Blood Pb levels were significantly associated with increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure and decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate but negatively associated with distance from the EAF. The results show that people living near EAFs should pay more attention to adverse health problems, including atherogenic dyslipidemia, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease associated with exposure to PM_2.5 and particle-bound metals.

Seasonal Impacts of Particulate Matter Levels on Bike Sharing in Seoul, South Korea

Bike sharing is increasingly attracting more riders in cities around the world for its benefits regarding the urban environment and public health. The public bike sharing program of Seoul, South Korea, first launched in October 2015, is now widely spread around the city and serves more than 27,000 riders daily. However, concerns are being raised as rising air pollution levels in Seoul, represented by particulate matter (PM) levels, in recent years may negatively discourage citizens from using bike sharing. This study investigates the impact of PM10 and PM2.5 levels on bike sharing use in Seoul and seeks to identify any seasonal differences. A series of negative binomial regression models, which take into account control variables like weather conditions and calendar events, are adopted to empirically measure the impacts. Results show that the PM levels yield statistically significant negative impacts (p < 0.01) on bike sharing use throughout the year. The impacts are particularly stronger in winter and spring, when the PM levels are higher. Findings suggest that PM levels may operate as driving factors for bike sharing use in addition to meteorological conditions like temperature, humidity, and precipitation.

Relationship between Particulate Matter (PM10) and Airway Inflammation Measured with Exhaled Nitric Oxide Test in Seoul, Korea

Purpose

Particulate matter (PM) is increasing every year in Asia. It is not fully understood how the airway is affected when inhaling PM. We investigated the correlation between particulate matter with a diameter of less than 10 μm (PM₁₀) and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) to determine whether PM causes airway inflammation. Material and Methods. We analyzed patients who visited our outpatient clinic and tested FeNO from January 2016 to December 2017 at the Korea University Guro Hospital. PM₁₀ data were provided by the government of the Republic of South Korea, and measuring station of PM₁₀ is located 800 meters from the hospital. We analyzed the correlation between PM₁₀ and FeNO by a Pearson correlation analysis and by a multivariate linear regression analysis. To identify the most correlated times, we analyzed the correlation between the FeNO and PM₁₀ daily average from the day of visit to 4 days before visit.

Results

FeNO positively correlated with PM₁₀ at two days before hospital visit in the Pearson correlation (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.057; P-value = 0.023) and in the multivariate linear regression analysis (B = 0.051, P-value = 0.026). If the PM₁₀ increased by 100 μg/m³, the FeNO result was expected to rise to 8.3 ppb in healthy people without respiratory disease.

Conclusion

The positive correlation was found in both healthy people and asthmatic patients. Therefore, PM₁₀ can increase airway inflammation.

Identification of cement in atmospheric particulate matter using the hybrid method of laser diffraction analysis and Raman spectroscopy

The production of cement is associated with the emissions of dust and particulate matter, nitrogen oxides (NO_x), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds into the environment. People living near cement production facilities are potentially exposed to these pollutants, including carcinogens, although at lower doses than the factory workers. In this study we focused on the distribution of fine particulate matter, the composition, size patterns, and spatial distribution of the emissions from Spassk cement plant in Primorsky Krai, Russian Federation. The particulate matter was studied in wash-out from vegetation (conifer needles) using a hybrid method of laser diffraction analysis and Raman spectroscopy. The results showed that fine particulate matter (PM₁₀ fraction) extended to the entire town and its neighbourhood. The percentage of PM₁₀ in different areas of the town and over the course of two seasons ranged from 34.8% to 65% relative to other size fractions of particulate matter. It was further shown that up to 80% of the atmospheric PM content at some sampling points was composed of cement-containing particles. This links the cement production in Spassk-Dalny with overall morbidity of the town population and pollution of the environment.

Emissions Control of Hydrochloric and Fluorhydric Acid in cement Factories from Romania

From the available statistical data, cement factories co-process a range of over 100 types of waste (sorted both industrial and household) being authorized for their use as combustion components in clinker ovens. Therefore, the level of emissions is different depending on the type of fuels and waste used. The amount of industrial and municipal co-processed waste in the Romanian cement industry from 2004 to 2013 was about 1,500,000 tons, the equivalent of municipal waste generated in a year for 18 cities with over 250,000 inhabitants. The objective of this paper was to evaluate the emission level of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and hydrofluoric acid (HF) at the clinker kilns at two cement factories in Romania for different annual time intervals and to do a comparative analysis, to estimate their compliance with legislation in force. The measurements results showed average emission levels of about 0.578 mg/Nm³ for HCl and about 0.100 mg/Nm³ for HF, in the first hours of the evening, but decreased at the beginning of the third tour, at about 0.385 mg/Nm³ for HCl, respectively, to about 0.085 mg/Nm³ for HF. The evolution of HCl and HF emission levels during the last 4 years showed a variable distribution of these acids.

Environmental Health Research in Africa: Important Progress and Promising Opportunities

The World Health Organization in 2016 estimated that over 20% of the global disease burden and deaths were attributed to modifiable environmental factors. However, data clearly characterizing the impact of environmental exposures and health endpoints in African populations is limited. To describe recent progress and identify important research gaps, we reviewed literature on environmental health research in African populations over the last decade, as well as research incorporating both genomic and environmental factors. We queried PubMed for peer-reviewed research articles, reviews, or books examining environmental exposures and health outcomes in human populations in Africa. Searches utilized medical subheading (MeSH) terms for environmental exposure categories listed in the March 2018 US National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals, which includes chemicals with worldwide distributions. Our search strategy retrieved 540 relevant publications, with studies evaluating health impacts of ambient air pollution (n=105), indoor air pollution (n = 166), heavy metals (n = 130), pesticides (n = 95), dietary mold (n = 61), indoor mold (n = 9), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs, n = 0), electronic waste (n = 9), environmental phenols (n = 4), flame retardants (n = 8), and phthalates (n = 3), where publications could belong to more than one exposure category. Only 23 publications characterized both environmental and genomic risk factors. Cardiovascular and respiratory health endpoints impacted by air pollution were comparable to observations in other countries. Air pollution exposures unique to Africa and some other resource limited settings were dust and specific occupational exposures. Literature describing harmful health effects of metals, pesticides, and dietary mold represented a context unique to Africa. Studies of exposures to phthalates, PFASs, phenols, and flame retardants were very limited. These results underscore the need for further focus on current and emerging environmental and chemical health risks as well as better integration of genomic and environmental factors in African research studies. Environmental exposures with distinct routes of exposure, unique co-exposures and co-morbidities, combined with the extensive genomic diversity in Africa may lead to the identification of novel mechanisms underlying complex disease and promising potential for translation to global public health.

Ambient air pollution and health in Sub-Saharan Africa: Current evidence, perspectives and a call to action

BACKGROUND

People from low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected by the global burden of adverse health effects caused by ambient air pollution (AAP). However, data from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are still scarce. We systematically reviewed the literature to describe the existing knowledge on AAP and health outcomes in SSA.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Medline-OVID, EMBASE and Scopus databases to identify studies of AAP and health outcomes published up to November 15, 2017. We used a systematic review approach to critically analyze and summarize levels of outdoor air pollutants, and data on health effects associated with AAP. We excluded occupational and indoor exposure studies.

RESULTS

We identified 60 articles, with 37 only describing levels of AAP and 23 assessing the association between air pollution and health outcomes. Most studies (75%) addressing the relation between AAP and disease were cross-sectional. In general, exposure data were only obtained for selected cities in the framework of temporary international collaborative research initiatives without structural long-term continuation. Measurements of AAP revealed 10-20 fold higher levels than WHO standards. Of the 23 studies reporting health effects, 14 originated from South Africa, and most countries within SSA contributed no data at all. No studies, except from South Africa, were based on reliable morbidity or mortality statistics at regional or country level. The majority of studies investigated self-reported respiratory symptoms. Children and the elderly were found to be more susceptible to AAP.

CONCLUSION

AAP and its negative health effects have been understudied in SSA compared with other continents. The limited direct measurements of air pollutants indicate that AAP in SAA cities is high compared with international standards. Efforts are needed to monitor AAP in African cities, to identify its main sources, and to reduce adverse health effects by enforcing legislation.

Acute respiratory infection related to air pollution in Bamenda, North West Region of Cameroon

Introduction

Air pollution is a global health problem. It's responsible for over 4 million deaths each year and constitutes a risk factor for acute respiratory infections (ARI). The aims of this study was to assess knowledge about air pollution, and to determine environmental risk factors associated with ARIs occurence in the city of Bamenda, Cameroon.

Methods

We conducted a cross sectional study and performed a rectrospective analysis of ARI consultation within the period March 2016 to July 2016 in the Bamenda Health District. We interviewd 201 patients and recorded 1849 cases from hospital registers of patients diagnosed ARI from January 2013 to April 2016. Epi-info 7.2 was used for data entry and analysis. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the importance of the different environmental risk factors.

Results

Over 70% of the participants used at least a form of solid fuel for cooking. The Odds of developing an ARI was 3.62 greater among those exposed to indoor cooking compared to the unexposed (OR 3.62, CI 1.45-4.90). Participants exposed to open fire burning were 1.91 times more like to develop ARI compared to unexposed (OR: 1.91, CI 1.03-3.55: p : 0.03). Particulate Matter (PM 2.5) levels was 13.2 times higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended levels. Dry and dusty weathers increased the risk of ARIs (OR 3.24; CI 1.47-7.13). The prevalence of ARIs in the Bamenda Health District was 6% of all consultations.

Conclusion

Using solid fuels in poorly ventilated homes increase the total air particle suspension indoor. Inhalling this poor air irritates the repiratory tract, eyes while longterm exposure increases the odds of cancers. Ventilating homes with indoor cooking space reduces exposure while using clean fuels like electricity reduces the odds of ARI associated with pollution.

Cement plant emissions and health effects in the general population: a systematic review

Adverse health effects of cement plant exposure have been found in occupational contexts but are less defined for the general population living near plants. We aimed to summarize the evidence on the health effects of people exposed to ambient air pollution by cement plants. A systematic review using Embase, PubMed and Web of Science was performed. We included only non-occupational studies with a comparison group that focused on adverse health outcomes and biomarkers of internal dose or subclinical effect associated with cement plant exposure. Selection of articles was performed by two authors independently. Of 1491 articles identified by the initial search, 24 were included: 17 of them were included in the analysis of adverse health outcomes and 9 in the analysis of biomarkers of internal dose or subclinical effects. The studies were very heterogeneous in study design, measure of cement plant exposure, outcome detection, measure of association and adjustment for confounding. Almost all the studies found positive associations between cement plant exposure and respiratory diseases and symptoms. An excess risk of cancer incidence and mortality in both children and adults mainly concerning respiratory tract cancers was also reported in some studies. Higher values of heavy metals and of a biomarker of renal toxicity were found in the exposed compared to unexposed populations. In conclusion, there is some evidence for a possible role of cement plant exposure on health adverse effects, although many studies had serious or critical risk of bias and overall level of certainty was low.