[Spatial association between air pollutants and diseases of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems in Hamburg].

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have already shown that air pollution can contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. This study investigated spatial differences in air pollution in Hamburg and their associations with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

METHODS

This ecological cross-sectional study included 9787 participants in the Hamburg City Health Study (HCHS) aged 45-74 who took part in the baseline examination between April 2016 and November 2018 and had lived at their current place of residence for at least 10 years. Model data from the Helmholtz Centre Hereon (EPISODE-CiTYCHEM) for 2018 were used to determine the concentrations of O, NO, NO, PM and PM. In addition to descriptive analyses and cartographic representations of air pollution exposure and adjusted prevalence rates, spatial logistic regression models were used.

RESULTS

Increased particulate matter pollution is particularly evident in the centre of Hamburg, where both major traffic arteries and the port are located. In addition, there is a positive association between particulate matter concentration and diseases of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

DISCUSSION

The results are consistent with previous studies. The mechanisms of action require further research in order to be able to derive specific measures to reduce the risk of disease.