Particulate Matter Exposure and Mortality in Mashhad, Iran:Health Risk Assessment Using the Air Q plus Model

Air pollution poses significant health risks, especially in urban areaswith high pollutant concentrations. This study investigates the healtheffects of exposure to particulate matter ( 2.5 PM and 10 PM ) in Mashhad,Iran, using the Air Q plus model developed by the World HealthOrganization. The results estimate that annual mortality due to2.5 PM and 10 PM exposure ranges from 6,313 to 10,370 deaths,primarily affecting adults aged 30 years and older from all naturalcauses. Mashhad's unique geography, combined with its densepopulation, exacerbates air pollution problems and underscores the needfor effective mitigation strategies. The study highlights the value ofincorporating local data, such as baseline mortality rates and pollutantlevels, to tailor health impact assessments. The findings underscore theurgency of stricter emission controls, improved public transport andawareness campaigns. These results provide an important resource for policy makers and public health officials to prioritize actions to reduceair pollution and its adverse health effects.

Particulate Matter Exposure and Mortality in Mashhad, Iran:Health Risk Assessment Using the Air Q plus Model Keywords:

Air Q plus , 2.5 PM , 10 PM , health risk.