Articles tagged with Air Pollution
The Southern California Environmental Health Sciences Center will continue to support research on air pollution, PFAS, and environmental health effects. The new grant will enable the center to expand its research programs and support junior investigators.
A nationwide study in Singapore found that short-term increases in fine-particle air pollution are associated with more asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-related emergency department visits. The study analyzed 6.5 years of national air quality data and found a clear relationship between PM2.5 levels and admissions.
Researchers have developed a light-powered filter that maintains 99% filtration efficiency for a month and 95% for two months. The filter uses a coating that responds to light and heat, generating a continuous surface charge, making it reusable and self-cleaning.
Rapid economic growth in India has led to a significant increase in coal-fired power generation, resulting in worsening outdoor air pollution and a sharp rise in urban air-pollution-related deaths. The study found that a 1% increase in GDP per capita was associated with a 1.14% increase in electricity demand.
A study of 2.7 million marathon performances found that higher air pollution levels were associated with slower finishing times, particularly in recreational runners. Nitrogen dioxide levels were strongly linked to finishing times, with effects six times larger for recreational runners than elite athletes.
Researchers have discovered novel blood biomarkers, long-chain dicarboxylate acids (DCAs) and medium- to long-chain acyl-carnitines (ACs), in mouse and human blood samples exposed to air pollution. These biomarkers provide insights into how air pollution damages cell function and increases the risk of heart disease. The buildup of thes...
Research suggests air pollutants like PM2.5, NO2, and noise pollution may increase risk of death by suicide and suicidal thoughts. Environmental exposures are considered modifiable risk factors in suicide prevention strategies.
Researchers found a strong link between daytime air pollution and nighttime coughing levels, even when pollution levels were below the WHO's recommended daily exposure limit. The dataset, which analyzed cough sounds from 32 cities in 12 countries, suggests that air pollution may be a contributing factor to respiratory issues.
A new study found that air pollution exposure can increase the risk of bacterial pneumonia and meningitis, with certain bacterial strains responding differently to pollution exposure. The study suggests that improving air quality could lower disease risk, particularly for vulnerable populations such as older adults and young children.
Researchers analyzed 40,000 industrial plants and 5,000 U.S. House elections to find that firms in Democratic districts have lower emissions due to increased inspections and enforcement actions. This reallocation had potential financial impacts for firms and public health concerns for local communities.
A large study found that people exposed to higher levels of air pollution face a higher risk of developing glaucoma and cataract. The study suggests that fine particulate matter is a key contributor to these risks, and that reducing air pollution can help prevent these eye diseases.
Research presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress found common bacteria in classroom dust, such as Streptomyces and Mycobacterium spp., are associated with reduced lung function in children. Children exposed to classrooms with higher levels of these bacteria had lower forced vital capacity, FEV₁, and PEF.
A new study found that babies born with a higher genetic risk for COPD showed reduced lung function growth between birth and six years old, especially in areas with high air pollution. This suggests that early-life environment, including air pollution, may contribute to the foundations of the disease.
Researchers found that patients with lung cancer had more detectable microplastics and higher microplastic burdens in their lung wash and tissue samples. The study suggests a link between microplastics and lung disease, with polypropylene and polyethylene being the most common types of plastic.
Researchers collected and analyzed wet and dry deposition samples, finding PFAS in forested watersheds, but attributed to breakdown of precursor compounds, not sea spray. The study suggests PFAS are likely transported from industrial centers elsewhere, raising environmental concerns.
Researchers found lead levels were 7 times higher near airports compared to other areas of Portland, with aviation fuel as the dominant source. The study highlights the need for soil testing to address lead exposure risks for children.
A new study finds that rain falling through wildfire smoke can deliver unusually large bursts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to ecosystems in the United States. The nutrient pulses could become an increasingly important ecological consequence of fire as wildfires become more frequent.
New Purdue research improves air quality forecasting by understanding how organic aerosol molecules interact and affect evaporation rates. The team discovered that neighboring molecules in aerosol mixtures tend to
A landmark study of over 3,400 children found that London's Ultra Low Emission Zone improved lung growth and health, with lung capacity increasing by 10ml per year. The study suggests that clean air zones can benefit child development and should be considered a priority for cities globally.
North Americans breathed unhealthy air for nearly 106 million person-days as Ontario wildfires exposed people on both sides of the border. Canada's slow fire season intensified within weeks, with Toronto recording the poorest air quality in the world.
Researchers found molecular signs of changes in the blood of people exposed to air pollution, detectable years before diagnosis with lung cancer. The study suggests potential biomarkers for early detection and prevention strategies.
A new study from Pusan National University reveals that climate-driven changes in vegetation can significantly impact ozone and aerosol pollution in East Asia. The researchers used satellite observations to update vegetation data, finding substantial changes in biogenic emissions and air quality, particularly in suburban areas.
A study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found a strong association between air pollution, particularly PM2.5, and increased disease activity and flare risk in RA patients. The study suggests that avoiding prolonged exposure to poor air quality may help reduce disease activity.
A novel dynamic imine bond adhesive technology enhances commercial filters with improved particle retention and filtration performance, increasing efficiency and lifespan by up to 10-30% and extending filter lifespan by nearly a factor of two.
A new review by the University of East London found no direct evidence showing whether domestic gardens reduce pollution levels or improve household air quality. Despite covering vast areas of Britain's towns and cities, researchers discovered a huge gap in understanding the role of domestic gardens on air quality.
A study of 997,701 ED visits in Alberta and Ontario found a significant association between wildfire-sourced PM2.5 and a 6% increase in ED visits for migraine and primary headache syndromes. Associations were attenuated in less deprived areas, suggesting that wildfire-sourced PM2.5 may trigger severe headache episodes requiring ED care.
Exposure to even moderate levels of multiple air pollutants during critical stages of pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth. The study found that a mixture of ozone and fine particulate matter posed the strongest relationship to early preterm birth.
A European cohort study suggests that childhood exposure to air pollution at home and school increases the risk of metabolic syndrome. The study found stronger associations with metabolic syndrome risk at school than at home.
A University of Utah-led survey found that 69% of Salt Lake County residents are concerned about the Great Salt Lake's decline, with habitat loss and risks to human health ranking as top issues. Concern varies by social group, birthplace, and personal experiences.
Researchers found ultrafine particulate matter from cruise ships increases inflammatory signals and weakens cells' defense against viruses like COVID-19. The study suggests exposure to vanadium may facilitate viral replication, with potential implications for infection severity and spread.
A new study led by McGill researchers found that reducing vehicle emissions could prevent over 3,600 premature deaths in Montreal and Toronto. The policy mix includes keeping traffic levels steady and retiring older heavy-duty diesel trucks.
A nationwide study found substantial regional differences in sperm quality, with men in northern Spain recording the strongest semen quality. Lifestyle habits were broadly similar across regions, suggesting environmental exposures may play a role in male reproductive health.
A new study reveals that microplastics in the air can trap heat, making them a previously unknown contributor to climate change. Researchers found that colored microplastics absorb roughly 16% as much heat as black carbon, with an effect equivalent to running 200 coal-fired power plants annually.
A large study suggests exposure to air pollution during sperm development can impact genes associated with sperm development, chromosomal organisation and cellular quality control. Researchers identified 39 DNA methylation changes linked to air pollution mixtures, including ozone and nitrogen dioxide.
A new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers suggests that reaching net-zero emissions by mid-century will substantially improve public health in the US. The study found that climate strategies relying less on carbon dioxide removal lead to better air quality and lower premature deaths.
Recent studies have analyzed the residues of fireworks, providing insights into their potential impacts on human health and the environment. The research also highlights the need for better management of pyrotechnics' fallout, including litter, particulate matter, and airborne compounds.
Researchers at UC Davis aim to understand how airborne nanoplastics affect human health, focusing on neurotoxicity and pollutant-adsorbed nanoplastics. They'll create a standardized method for measuring and describing the health risks of these tiny plastics.
Scientists at Tampere University identified a new chemical process that can influence the formation of air pollution particles in urban environments. Nitric oxide is found to promote the conversion of certain volatile compounds into aerosol precursors, challenging existing assumptions.
Researchers analyzed cloud and rainwater samples collected over 19 summers at Mount Washington, revealing that rainfall history impacts air pollution as much as wind direction. The study provides a valuable tool for meteorologists to improve predictions over complex terrains, with implications for waterways fed from the mountains.
A new study finds that approximately 15% of current global warming is attributed to 'indirect greenhouse gases,' including carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. The authors call for integrating these gases into climate policy frameworks, emphasizing their significant impact on warming.
A Stanford-led study suggests that burning 500,000 acres of California conifer forests each year with prescribed fire could cut deadly pollution from wildfire smoke by roughly 10% over a decade. The risk of very severe fires immediately drops 92% in areas burned in low-severity fires, with risks remaining lower for up to a decade and e...
Researchers found that long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with more advanced coronary artery disease, even at moderate levels. The study analyzed data from 11,128 adults and found that exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide increased the risk of coronary artery disease.
A new study reveals that wildfires have led to a decade-long reversal of ozone mitigation efforts in the US. Exposure to surface ozone from wildfires contributes to thousands of additional premature deaths each year.
A new study by researchers at UC Davis Health and Kaiser Permanente found that long-term exposure to fine air pollution particles (PM2.5) is associated with lower semantic memory, a type of brain's encyclopedia. The study analyzed data from 740 adults aged 53-94 and found no impact on executive function or verbal episodic memory.
A new UV dual-comb spectrometer detects harmful gases with unrivalled accuracy and sensitivity, enabling fundamental insights into formaldehyde's properties. The compact design makes it suitable for mobile measurements in cities and industrial areas.
A recent review of decades of air pollution studies found that exposure to PM2.5 may harm heart health even at concentrations below EPA guidelines, affecting cardiovascular disease rates worldwide. Certain populations are particularly vulnerable, and increasing public awareness is key to preventing exposure.
Researchers from Virginia Tech found that airborne particles have an outer alkaline shell, contradicting the traditional view of uniform droplets. This discovery has significant implications for understanding air quality and climate change.
A new study finds herbal cigarettes can be as damaging as tobacco cigarettes, emitting comparable or even more harmful emissions. Fine particles and oxidative potential were measured, revealing a significant risk to cardiovascular and respiratory health.
China's air quality has shown significant improvement in 2025, with a decrease in PM2.5 and O3 concentrations compared to the 2022-2024 average. However, high-impact air pollution events such as severe pollution episodes, dust storms, and compound pollution events remain major challenges.
A research team used satellites to quantify sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions from the March 2026 refinery fires in Tehran, Iran. Total emissions were estimated at 2.98×10^4 tons, with peak concentrations reaching 2.0 DU.
A study led by NTU Singapore found that land-use changes across Southeast Asia contribute to thousands of excess deaths annually due to worsening air quality. The estimated 13,000 excess deaths in 2018 were linked to forest degradation and deforestation, accounting for nearly 30% of the total deaths.
Researchers found that wildland-urban interface fires release distinct pollutants, including toxic metals and PFAS, which can penetrate deep into lungs. These particles differ from ordinary urban pollution and biomass-only wildfire aerosols, highlighting the need for monitoring and cleanup strategies tailored to fire composition.
Common air pollutants can alter both brain and respiratory function within four hours of exposure, according to a new study. The source of the pollution matters more than its quantity, with different pollutant sources producing varied health effects even at identical concentrations.
Experts from Mount Sinai will present a new AI model that predicts lung nodule risk and assesses the impact of air pollution during pregnancy. The researchers also explore cognitive consequences of sleep-disordered breathing and reevaluate asthma guidelines to integrate both conditions.
A Peking University study found that population ageing, not just air pollution, contributes to rising dementia deaths in China. Lower PM2.5 levels have brought health benefits, but the rapid growth of China's older population offsets progress.
A new study finds that coal pollution reduces global solar electricity output by 5.8%, equivalent to 111 TWh of lost energy, with aerosol-related losses reaching 74.0 TWh annually. This constraint on the clean energy transition underscores the need for pollution control measures to maximize renewable energy output.
A three-year research project aims to identify the molecular pathways linking exposure to pesticides and air pollution to Parkinson's disease development and progression. The study will analyze human stem cells, animal models, and genetic analyses to understand how environmental toxins trigger disease onset.
A case-control study found associations between ambient particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide exposure and increased risks of Lewy body dementia and Parkinson disease-related dementia. The study's findings suggest air pollution may impact brain health, warranting concern.
A new study finds that satellite launch pollution will account for nearly half of the total climate impact of space sector pollution by the end of the decade. The potent air pollution generated by megaconstellations lingers in the upper atmosphere, decreasing sunlight and having a 500-fold greater impact on the climate.
A study found that even low levels of particulate matter in the air increased hospitalization risk for men with kidney diseases. Men aged 19-50 were most at risk, with prolonged exposure to high concentrations increasing the risk of chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury.