Assessing the Health Benefits of PM_2.5 Reduction Using AirQ+ and BenMAP

Abstract

Background: Among various pollutants, fine particle (PM 2.5 , defined as particle less than 2.5 nm in aerodynamic diameter) shows the most consistent association with adverse health effects. There is scientific evidence documenting a variety of adverse health outcomes due to exposure to PM 2.5 .Objectives: This study aims to assess the health benefits of that would be achieved by meeting the World Health Organization's air quality guidelines for PM 2.5 using AirQ+ and BenMAP. Methods:We estimated PM 2.5 related health benefits in Korea from implementing the World Health Organization's air quality guidelines (annual average 5 μg/m 3 and 10 μg/m3 ) and Korea's National Ambient Air Quality Standard (annual average 15 μg/m 3 ). We used World Health Organization's AirQ+ and U.S.Environmental Protection Agency's Environmental Benefits Mapping and Analysis Program. Results:The annual number of avoided PM 2.5 related premature deaths exceeding WHO guideline levels was assessed using both AirQ+ and BenMAP. We estimated that the health benefits of attaining the World Health Organization's air quality guidelines for PM 2.5 (annual average 5 μg/m3 ) would suggest an annual reduction of 26,128 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 17,363~34,024) and 26,853 (95% CI: 18,527~34,944) premature deaths. Conclusions:Our study provided useful information to policy makers and confirms that the reduction of PM 2.5 concentration would result in significant health benefits in Korea.

A Comparison of Health Risks from PM2.5 and Heavy Metal Exposure in Industrial Complexes in Dangjin and Yeosu·Gwangyang

“…Particulate matter (PM), a crucial indicator for assessing atmospheric air quality, refers to particles that exist in the atmosphere in a solid or liquid form [ 1 , 2 ]. PM is primarily composed of ions and contains various chemical substances, including organic components and trace metals [ 3 , 4 ].…”