Effects of PM2.5 and particle constituents on overall, cardiovascular, and respiratory mortality in Seoul

Previous studies demonstrated the association of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of ≤ 2.5 μm (PM_2.5) with mortality. The PM_2.5 components that are associated with mortality and lagged effects vary across regions. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of PM_2.5 constituents on overall, cardiovascular, and respiratory mortality in Seoul. PM_2.5 and its chemical constituents were assessed in Seoul, Korea, by the National Institute of Environmental Research between 2016 and 2019. The daily overall, cardiovascular, and respiratory mortality data in Seoul were obtained from the Korea Public Data Portal. Moreover, the meteorological data were extracted from the Korean Meteorological Administration Open Weather Data Portal. The risks of mortality associated with PM_2.5 and its constituents were analyzed using a Poisson model, and the lagged effects from the day of exposure up to 5 days were considered after adjusting for meteorological data and date. Respiratory mortality was associated with PM_2.5 levels measured 3 days prior. Ni increased respiratory mortality on lag 3 with the highest relative risk (RR). (RR, 1.036; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.017-1.055). S, V, and Se were also associated with increased respiratory mortality with delayed effects. Air pollution management targeting specific heavy metals may help reduce respiratory mortality.