A prospective study on the cardiorespiratory effects of air pollution among residents of the Tibetan Plateau

Abstract

The Tibetan Plateau is characterized by high ozone concentration which poses a significant public health concern. However, the causal evidence linking ozone pollution to adverse cardiopulmonary health impacts, as well as the understanding of its underlying biological mechanisms, remains limited. Additionally, exposure levels to particulate and other gaseous air pollutants along with their associated health effects in this region are largely unknown. To address these gaps, we conducted a prospective follow-up study in Tibet from May 2021 to November 2021. In consideration of the potential synergistic effects of chronic hypobaric hypoxia, two Tibetan cities with different altitudes, Lhasa (3650 m) and Nyingchi (3000 m), were chosen to implement atmospheric monitoring and health measurement. We employed cutting-edge, high-precision instruments at stationary monitoring sites to measure ambient air pollution and collected particle samples. Portable devices were used to monitor personal exposure levels of ozone and black carbon. A total of 212 healthy Tibetan college students participated in up to four clinical visits, yielding 774 visits in total, during which functional endpoints were measured and biological samples were collected. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the cardiorespiratory effects of ambient ozone under hypoxic conditions, where its impact may be amplified due to the region's unique environmental characteristics. The secondary aim is to provide a comprehensive assessment of other air pollutants, including their exposure levels, sources, and health effects. By addressing these aims, the study offers valuable insights into air quality and its health implications in this unique high-altitude setting. This paper outlines the research motivation, measurement framework, and preliminary findings.