Exposure to air pollution may increase antibiotic use for respiratory symptoms

Air Pollution Linked to Increased Antibiotic Use, Study Finds

A new study conducted by Spanish researchers suggests that short-term exposure to air pollution may be associated with higher antibiotic consumption among individuals experiencing respiratory symptoms. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, found that increases in daily ambient air pollution in 11 Spanish cities over a period of 7 years were correlated with increased antibiotic use among patients seeking care for acute respiratory symptoms on the day of exposure. This study highlights the need to reduce exposure to toxic air and emphasizes the importance of addressing air pollution as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Key Indicators of Air Pollution

For this study, researchers from Bellvitge University Hospital in Barcelona conducted a two-stage ecological time series analysis using data on daily ambient particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide (PM10, PM2.5, and NO2) concentrations from the 11 largest cities in Catalonia from June 23, 2012, to December 31, 2019. PM10 (particulate matter of 10 micrograms or less in diameter) and PM2.5 (particulate matter of 2.5 micrograms or less in diameter) are the primary forms of inhalable PM derived from various emissions sources. Along with NO2, they are considered key indicators of air pollution that can have adverse effects on human health.

Pollution-Induced Respiratory Irritation

The researchers found a significant correlation between increases of 10 μg/m3 in the concentration of all three pollutants studied (PM10, PM2.5, and NO2) and heightened antibiotic consumption on the day of exposure. They also observed a delayed association between increases in PM2.5 concentration and antimicrobial consumption between day 7 and day 10 after exposure. The study authors hypothesize that exposure to air pollution could increase antibiotic use in two ways. Firstly, it may induce immediate irritation of the respiratory tract, leading to acute respiratory symptoms that prompt healthcare-seeking behavior, misdiagnosis of respiratory tract infections, and subsequent antibiotic use. Secondly, air pollution may trigger an innate immune response in the respiratory system, increasing susceptibility to secondary bacterial infections that result in antibiotic use.

The findings of this study highlight the urgent need for comprehensive and ambitious policies to address ambient air pollution on a global scale. By reducing air pollution, we can not only improve public health outcomes but also contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 13: Climate Action

The article discusses the adverse health effects of air pollution, specifically its link to increased antibiotic use in people with respiratory symptoms. This connects to SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. It also relates to SDG 11, which focuses on making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. Additionally, it is relevant to SDG 13, which addresses the need for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• SDG 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
• SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.

The article highlights the need to reduce exposure to toxic air and the adverse health effects of air pollution. This aligns with SDG 3.9, which aims to reduce deaths and illnesses caused by pollution. It also relates to SDG 11.6, which focuses on improving air quality in cities. Furthermore, it connects to SDG 13.2, which emphasizes the integration of climate change measures into policies and planning.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Ambient particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) concentrations
• Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations
• Antibiotic consumption associated with primary care consultations for acute respiratory symptoms

The article mentions the concentrations of ambient particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) as key indicators of air pollution. These indicators can be used to measure progress towards improving air quality and reducing pollution. Additionally, the article discusses antibiotic consumption associated with primary care consultations for acute respiratory symptoms, which can serve as an indicator of the impact of air pollution on public health.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Note: The indicators listed in the table are based on the information provided in the article. Additional indicators may exist that are not mentioned in the article but are relevant to measuring progress towards the identified targets.

Source: cidrap.umn.edu