Speaker
Description
This study examines the relationship between environmental exposure and chronic non-communicable diseases, focusing on traffic-related air pollution and non-ionizing radiation, which are both potential risk factors for childhood leukemia and neurodegenerative diseases. A key interaction occurs between air pollution and high-voltage power lines (HVPL), where corona ions increase the presence of charged particles. Prior research indicates that charged nanoparticle concentrations are higher near busy roads than under HVPL, though their health effects remain unclear.
From an environmental justice perspective, limited studies have investigated whether lower-income populations experience disproportionately high exposure to environmental pollutants such as air pollution and extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF), with potential differences between urban and rural settings. This paper analyzes co-exposure to air pollution and ELF-EMF in Belgium and its association with socio-economic status. Two research questions are addressed: (1) Do residents in more deprived neighborhoods experience higher exposure to air pollution and ELF-EMF? and (2) Are areas near HVPL exposed to higher levels of air pollution?
Using publicly available data, the study explores environmental inequalities in exposure to particulate matter and ELF-EMF. Findings indicate a trend of higher exposure levels in socio-economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. However, while co-exposure to both environmental stressors exists, air pollution exposure is widespread and not limited to areas near HVPL. Additionally, only a small proportion of the population resides in close proximity to HVPL. This research highlights the need for further investigation into environmental inequalities, real-world exposure levels to ELF-EMF and public health impacts.
