Mortality effects of a copper smelter strike and reduced ambient sulfate particulate matter air pollution
2007
Response to Concerns About Copper Smelter Emissions and Mortality
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Pope C. Arden III
Primary Institution: Brigham Young University
Hypothesis
Are changes in exposure to co-pollutants, such as metals and black smoke, responsible for the observed mortality effects from a copper smelter strike?
Conclusion
The study reaffirms that ambient sulfate particulate matter and related air pollutants are adversely associated with human health.
Supporting Evidence
- The copper smelter strike resulted in changes in exposure to metals and other co-pollutants.
- Epidemiologic studies have shown that sulfate pollution contributes to adverse health effects.
- Intervention studies indicated that reductions in sulfur oxide exposure were associated with mortality reductions.
Takeaway
The study shows that pollution from copper smelters can harm health, especially due to tiny particles in the air.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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