EFFECTS OF MINERAL DUST ON HUMAN HEALTH—ROLES OF EARTH SCIENCE

Substantial gains have been made in the last two decades to elucidate relations between atmospheric dust and human health. Epidemiological research has identified associations between particulate matter exposure and cardiovascular and respiratory illness worldwide. On some fronts, however, we remain stalled. For example, despite concerns related to the effects of our changing climate on drylands and subsequent health-related effects caused by dust emissions, urban anthropogenic particulate matter remains the primary focus for many scientists, so that contributions from mineral dusts tend to be neglected. Yet, ongoing international research indicates an association between long distance transported dusts and increased morbidity and mortality. Other dust characteristics such as particle size (PM10 and PM2.5) and composition demonstrate different results from study to study or are not considered. The disciplines of Earth Science can advance understanding of the effects of mineral dust on human health consequences of dust exposure.