Canadian study finds higher death risk associated with ultrafine particle pollution

August 7, 2024 TruthUSA

New data reveals that prolonged exposure to ultrafine particles in the air of Canada’s two largest cities leads to 1,100 deaths annually.

A collaborative study involving McGill University, the University of Toronto, Carleton University, the University of Ottawa, Health Canada, and Statistics Canada, funded by the U.S. Health Effects Institute, uncovered these findings.

Ultrafine particles (UFP) originate from vehicle emissions and industrial activities, with no set concentration limits, as pointed out by the researchers.

Principal investigator Scott Weichenthal emphasized, “Ultrafine particles are extremely small, allowing them to enter deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Growing evidence suggests that these pollutants may contribute to heart and lung diseases, along with certain types of cancer.”

Until now, the impact of UFPs on mortality in Canada had not been thoroughly explored, Weichenthal added.

The study indicates that long-term exposure to UFPs correlates with a 7.3% rise in non-accidental deaths, predominantly in respiratory deaths (17.4% increase) and coronary artery disease (9.4% increase), according to the researchers.

Utilizing state-of-the-art models and machine learning techniques, researchers analyzed ground-level data, land use information, and aerial imagery, as outlined in a McGill news release.

Researchers utilized statistical methods to estimate the amount of particles in the air at different times and their association with the risk of death.

Furthermore, they examined the impact of particle size, which they identified as an additional risk to human health.

The researchers highlighted that previous studies may have overlooked or underestimated significant health risks posed by UFPs.

“Our research establishes a clear connection between prolonged UFP exposure and increased mortality risk, underscoring the immediate need for regulatory measures aimed at these particles,” stated Weichenthal.

He emphasized that air pollution plays a critical role in the health and well-being of urban populations.

“As outdoor ultrafine particles are currently unregulated, there is substantial potential for future regulatory interventions to enhance public health by targeting these common outdoor air pollutants,” concluded the study source.

This groundbreaking study led by McGill researchers is the first of its kind.

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