Hataichanok Chuljerm, PhD
Nominated From: University of Minnesota
Research Site: Chiang Mai University
Research Area: Environmental health, air pollution, cardiovascular diseases
Primary Mentor: Dr. Richard MacLehose
Research Project
The impact of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure on the endothelial 1 functions in the population residing in areas with high and low PM2.5 levels in Thailand
Air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), has become a significant global health issue. This issue has emerged in Chiang Mai province, the northern part of Thailand, for over two decades and exhibits a trend of exacerbation with each passing year. The level of PM2.5 experiences a notable increase during the winter and dry season every year. Several factors contribute to the exacerbation of PM2.5 pollution, with geographic characteristics in the northern part of Thailand and widespread burning in both Thailand and neighboring countries being particularly significant. According to data provided by the Pollution Control Department (PCD) of Thailand and the Northern Thailand Air Quality Health Index (NTAQHI), the average PM2.5 level during winter and dry seasons in Chiang Mai consistently exceeds 50 micrograms per cubic meter in the past few years. This level surpasses the threshold for healthy air and is classified as unhealthy air pollution. As a consequence, individuals in the Chiang Mai region, particularly those who are more sensitive to air pollution, may be at a heightened risk of experiencing adverse health effects. This research study will explore the association between exposure to PM2.5 and endothelial dysfunction, a key factor for cardiovascular diseases, in populations residing in high PM2.5 environments, specifically Chiang Mai, Thailand. The objective of this study is to identify the correlation between the level of PM2.5 exposure and the biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction. In this study, participants residing in Chiang Mai for over three years will be recruited for investigation, while individuals living in an area with low PM2.5 levels will be recruited as the control group. The levels of adhesion molecules on the surface of endothelial cells including intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and E-selectin will be measured. Furthermore, the inflammatory markers including endothelial microparticles (EMPs), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) will be measured. Then, the data will be analyzed together with the PM2.5 levels. Through comprehensive data analysis and biomarker assessments, this study endeavors to provide valuable insights into the critical health implications of PM2.5 exposure. Ultimately, the findings will contribute to the development of targeted preventive strategies to decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases in the Thai population.
Research Significance
This research endeavor carries substantial implications for the domain of public health. The exploration of the relationship between PM2.5 exposure and endothelial dysfunction, a recognized risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, offers valuable insights into the health risks of populations residing in regions with elevated PM2.5 concentrations. This research study enriches the understanding of the mechanism through which PM2.5 contributes to the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases among the Thai population. Furthermore, the findings of this research can potentially extend to the development of risk management strategies in regions like Chiang Mai, where this problem is particularly prominent. In addition, the critical information of this study serves as a fundamental basis for further endeavors aimed at the development of preventive strategies and therapeutic interventions. Consequently, these interventions potentially reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases among vulnerable populations. Moreover, this study contributes to community awareness regarding the health risks associated with PM2.5 exposure, impacting not only people residing in Chiang Mai but also the populations globally. The increase in awareness empowers individuals to adopt protective measures, such as the use of masks during outdoor activities or staying indoors during periods of high PM2.5 concentration.
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