Low Levels of Air Pollution and Health: Effect Estimates, Methodological Challenges, and Future Directions

Papadogeorgou, G; Kioumourtzoglou, MA; Braun, D; Zanobetti, A

HERO ID

7495767

Reference Type

Journal Article

Subtype

Review

Year

2019

Language

English

PMID

31090042

HERO ID 7495767
Material Type Review
In Press No
Year 2019
Title Low Levels of Air Pollution and Health: Effect Estimates, Methodological Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors Papadogeorgou, G; Kioumourtzoglou, MA; Braun, D; Zanobetti, A
Journal Current Environmental Health Reports
Volume 6
Issue 3
Page Numbers 105-115
Abstract <strong>PURPOSE OF REVIEW: </strong>Fine particle (PM2.5) levels have been decreasing in the USA over the past decades. Our goal was to assess the current literature to characterize the association between PM2.5 and adverse health at low exposure levels.<br /><br /><strong>RECENT FINDINGS: </strong>We reviewed 26 papers that examined the association between short- and long-term exposure to PM2.5 and cardio-respiratory morbidity and mortality. There is evidence suggesting that these associations are stronger at lower levels. However, there are certain methodological and interpretational limitations specific to studies of low PM2.5 levels, and further methodological development is warranted. There is strong agreement across studies that air pollution effects on adverse health are still observable at low concentrations, even well below current US standards. These findings suggest that US standards need to be reevaluated, given that further improving air quality has the potential of benefiting public health.
Doi 10.1007/s40572-019-00235-7
Pmid 31090042
Wosid WOS:000544903000004
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Is Public Yes
Language Text English