Effects of long-term particulate matter exposure on platelet counts in adults of Northeast China

Abstract

Associations between air pollution exposure and platelet counts have been inconsistent in previous studies, and there have been few studies of effects of long-term exposure in Asian populations. We explored the associations between long-term PM2.5 (particulate matter < 2.5 µm) exposure and platelet counts using a prospective cohort study in Northeast China. We used a logistic regression model to analyze the effects of different PM2.5 increments and platelet count elevation. Mixed linear models were used to analyze the association between PM2.5 concentration and platelet counts. Interaction and stratified analyses were also conducted. Results showed that every 1 µg/m3 increment of PM2.5 exposure was associated with 0.29% (95%CI: 0.25–0.32%) increase in platelet counts and 10% (95%CI: 8–12%) higher risk of platelet elevation. Effects of long-term PM2.5 exposure on platelet elevation were stronger in male participants, of Han ethnicity, and without diabetes. Our findings add more evidence to the potential biological mechanisms responsible for the effect of air pollution exposure on cardiovascular disease.