Integrated Approach for the Assessment of Real Risk of Population Exposure in Industrial Areas

Research goal is to identify an integrated approach for assessing real risk exposure of population located in areas of extractive industries. We focused on environmental data evaluation (diffusion model), figures and contextual analysis of active health surveillance data of the population (questionnaire, chemistry panel, spirometry and activation of a biobank). Environmental exposure data crossed with the calculation of the AQI (Air Quality Index) did not highlight any critical issues. A cohort of 600 locals subjected to health surveillance was analysed by calculating risk perception; a questionnaire aimed at assessing risk perception was administered to the population sample.All data (environmental and clinical) were georeferenced and analysed using GIS (Geographic Information System) software; study of contaminant distribution was carried out using a Q-GIS software shows average exposure conditions well below regulatory limits, with minor exceptions relative to concentrations of finer particulate matter (PM 2.5) and with reference only to the major urban centers; analysis of risk perception evince “incorrect” perception, with little confidence in relation to the environmental monitoring of the Regional Agencies.