Study Links Black Carbon Exposure to Increased Respiratory Hospital Admissions in Jackson, Mississippi

Introduction

Researchers at the University of Mississippi have identified a significant correlation between exposure to high levels of black carbon in the air and an increase in respiratory-related hospital admissions in Jackson, Mississippi. This study, published in Environmental Pollution, highlights critical environmental health challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Key Findings

1. Highest Black Carbon Concentration in Mississippi: Jackson’s air contains the state’s highest concentration of black carbon, a major component of PM 2.5 air pollution.
2. Health Impacts: Exposure to black carbon is linked to increased respiratory hospital visits, especially among older adults and women.
3. Seasonal and Temperature Effects: Cold temperatures and seasonal factors influence the rate of hospital admissions related to air pollution.

Background on Black Carbon and PM 2.5

• Black carbon, commonly known as soot, is a fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) with particles 2.5 microns or smaller—approximately 30 times smaller than a human hair.
• PM 2.5 pollutants have been linked to increased risks of cancer, heart attacks, strokes, and lung diseases.
• Globally, long-term exposure to PM 2.5 air pollution accounts for approximately 4 million deaths annually.
• Sources of black carbon include burning coal, wood, fossil fuels for energy, transportation, and industrial emissions.

Research Methodology

The study combined air quality data with emergency department visits and hospitalization rates for respiratory issues from Medicare records between 2014 and 2015. This approach enabled researchers to establish a positive correlation between black carbon exposure and hospital admissions.

Detailed Results

• At an air concentration of 1.42 micrograms per cubic meter of black carbon, there was a 1.3% increase in respiratory-related hospital admissions.
• Women exhibited higher rates of hospital visits associated with black carbon exposure, potentially due to biological differences such as smaller airways and organs.
• Unlike black carbon, PM 2.5 was not linked to increased hospitalizations year-round but showed spikes during springtime correlated with asthma admissions.
• Colder temperatures were associated with increased hospital visits 10 to 25 days later, possibly due to winter illnesses or indoor air quality issues.

Implications for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – The study underscores the urgent need to reduce air pollution to improve respiratory health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations such as older adults and women.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Findings emphasize the importance of monitoring and improving urban air quality to create healthier living environments.
• SDG 13: Climate Action – Addressing black carbon emissions contributes to mitigating climate change and reducing short-lived climate pollutants.

Next Steps and Future Research

• The research team plans to investigate the relationship between black carbon and PM 2.5 exposure with cardiovascular hospitalizations in Jackson.
• Continued focus on local air quality research aims to address health disparities and inform policy interventions in Mississippi.

Conclusion

This study highlights the critical intersection of environmental pollution and public health, reinforcing the need for targeted actions to reduce black carbon emissions. By aligning research and policy efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3, SDG 11, and SDG 13, Mississippi can work toward healthier communities and a more sustainable future.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article discusses respiratory-related hospital admissions linked to air pollution, directly relating to health and well-being.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Air quality in Jackson, Mississippi, and its impact on residents’ health highlights urban environmental challenges.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Black carbon is a short-lived climate pollutant contributing to climate change; reducing it aligns with climate action goals.
4. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • Pollution from burning coal, wood, and fossil fuels for energy production is mentioned, linking to the need for cleaner energy sources.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including air quality improvement.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning, including reducing short-lived climate pollutants like black carbon.
4. SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
   • Target 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix to reduce reliance on polluting fossil fuels.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Air Quality Indicators
   • Concentration levels of black carbon (measured in micrograms per cubic meter).
   • Levels of PM 2.5 pollutants in the air.
2. Health Outcome Indicators
   • Rates of respiratory-related hospital admissions, especially among older adults and women.
   • Emergency department visits and hospitalization rates for respiratory issues.
3. Environmental and Seasonal Factors
   • Seasonal variation in hospital admissions related to air pollution and temperature changes.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: olemiss.edu