Influence of body mass index on PM2.5 deposition in respiratory tract during urban commuting

Abstract

This first key study examines the influence of functional residue capacity (FRC) associated with Body Mass Index (BMI) on PM_2.5 regional and lobar deposition. Size-segregated particulate matter (PM) was collected using the cascade impactor and multiple path particle dosimetry (MPPD) model is used to simulate the regional and lobar deposition in males and females aged 19–49, with various BMI categories. Morning and evening commutes exhibited a mean PM_2.5 of 127.89 ± 38.42 µg m⁻³ and 157.2 ± 58.84 µg m⁻³, respectively. The elemental analysis indicated the prevalence of elements in the order of B > Ca > Fe > Pb > Al > Hg > TI > Mg > Cu > K > Na > Mn > Cr during commuting. Regardless of age and gender, the pulmonary region exhibited the highest PM_2.5 deposition levels in comparison to both the head and tracheobronchial regions. Females aged 19 and 49 exhibited a higher incidence of pulmonary accumulation of PM_2.5 than males of about 41% and 43.3% respectively. Among individuals aged 19 to 49, lobar deposition patterns of PM_2.5 revealed higher prevalence among females than males, showcasing relative variations across different BMI categories: 17 (3.1%), 18 (3.2%), 19 (3.12%), 22 (3.24%), 25 (3.21%), 27 (3.1%), and 30 (3.25%). Fine particles showcased maximum deposition in the right upper (25%), right lower (27%) and left lower lobes (26%). These findings emphasize the urgent need for extensive and meticulous research on BMI-based, gender-specific impacts on particle deposition and lung health within this critical bodily system.