Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 15
Dust and Human Health
Suzette A. Morman and Geoffrey S. Plumlee
Abstract
It is generally accepted that exposure to fine particulate matter may
increase risk for human morbidity and mortality. Until recently, population health
related studies examining the effects of particulate matter on human health generally
examined anthropogenic (industry and combustion by-products) sources with few
studies considering contributions from natural sources. This chapter provides an
overview of naturally occurring inorganic mineral dust research and associated
human health ailments and some of the challenges in elucidating the etiological
mechanisms responsible.
Keywords
Pollution Exposure Particle size Composition
Microorganisms Microbiology Susceptibility Respiratory system
Asthma Ailments Meningitis Hospitalization Mortality Agricultural
dust
15.1
Introduction
Potential increases in aerosols and emitted dust resulting from climate related
changes such as drought and desertification have generated concern and interest in
potential local and long-distance public health effects. Dust emissions can change
greatly over time due to changes in climate and land use. In particular, studies
are focusing on mineral dust which may be present at high concentrations over
vast regions of the Earth and may be carried great distances by winds. Epidemi-
ological studies have recently identified associations between far-traveled dusts and
increased morbidity and mortality in Europe and Asia. Prior epidemiological studies
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