Air Pollution and Health: A Review of Measurement Techniques

Air pollution is one of the significant causes of loss of healthy life years due to illness originating from indoor and outdoor air pollution sources like burning of biomass, vehicular emissions, etc. In the presented study, review of various methods used to assess health risks in terms of mortality and morbidity has been described. The use of precise instruments is essential for monitoring of health determinants causing serious health effects in urban regions. Data obtained from monitoring can be fed into the mathematical models in order to get the overall impact. These models are fed with specific concentration value for specific compounds, and they provide calculated number of population at risk. The main problem in using such models is the inability to calculate health risks for every pollutant. To validate the results obtained from mathematical models surveying needs to be synergies with the results. In air pollution impact assessment studies, public perception is one of the important components which these mathematical models do not incorporate, hence we recommend integrated assessment models for such studies. Perception based surveys generate huge data set and require statistical tools like SPSS, STATA for further analysis. It is essential to carry out exposure assessment studies as well to determine the pollution source and its impact on health in a more holistic way. Knowledge of these factors will help us to take measures to reduce pollutant concentration and recommend alternative solutions