Comparative assessment of the risk of health disorders of the population at two industrial centers of Kuzbass from exposure to atmospheric pollution

Abstract

Introduction. The high concentration of production facilities on the territory of the Kemerovo region — Kuzbass contributes to the fact that the population living in large industrial cities is affected by a high level of atmospheric pollution. The aim of the study to assess the risk to public health from air pollution from stationary sources in the cities of Kemerovo and Novokuznetsk. Materials and methods. To assess the risk we used the average of the average annual concentrations of pollutants for 2017–2021 were used. Hazard coefficients and indices, as well as carcinogenic risk, are determined according to the Guidelines 2.1.10.1920-04. The risk of chronic intoxication was determined according to the method of A.P. Shcherbo and co-authors. Results. Average concentrations of benz(a)pyrene exceed the hygienic standard by 3.0 times in the atmosphere of Kemerovo and by 5.8 times in Novokuznetsk. The total risk of chronic intoxication associated with atmospheric air pollution in the city of Kemerovo exceeds the acceptable level by 10.6 times, in Novokuznetsk — by 14.4 times. Benz(a)pyrene makes the greatest contribution to the formation of the risk level of chronic intoxication, accounting for 28.8% in Kemerovo and 38.4% in Novokuznetsk. The hazard indices exceed the acceptable value by 7.2 times in Kemerovo and 11.0 times in Novokuznetsk. The main critical organs and systems most at risk are the respiratory organs, the immune system, and blood. The carcinogenic risk to the health of residents of Kemerovo exceeded the acceptable level by 1.43 times, Novokuznetsk — by 1.56 times. The main contribution to the formation of the level of carcinogenic risk in both cities is made by formaldehyde (83.9% — in Kemerovo and 70.5% — in Novokuznetsk). Limitations. The researchers have used data from official reports to calculate public health risks. Conclusion. Both industrial centers have a high level of atmospheric air pollution, which leads to the formation of risks to public health. The authors have identified the most unfavorable situation in Novokuznetsk. Ethics. This study did not require the conclusion of the Ethics Committee.