Mortality and pollution in several Greek cities

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Industrial and traffic emissions pose risks to urban populations.
• Air quality in Kavala, a region with petroleum activities, was investigated.
• Long-term mortality data provides context for environmental health impacts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess atmospheric pollution in Kavala from industry and traffic.
• To analyze the correlation between air pollutants and mortality rates (cancer, cardiovascular, pulmonary).
• To compare Kavala's air quality and health outcomes with other Greek cities.

Main Methods:

• Collected 30 years of mortality data (1968-1998).
• Conducted 6-month air quality monitoring for gaseous emissions and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
• Sampled air near industrial and fuel oil facilities, identifying specific hydrocarbons and pollutants like H2S.

Main Results:

• Detected aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons, methane, xylenes, and ethylbenzene.
• Observed pollutant concentrations exceeding air quality standards.
• Identified offensive odors (H2S) and confirmed greater pollution in industrial areas compared to rural zones.

Conclusions:

• Air pollutants from industrial activities pose a significant environmental and public health concern in Kavala.
• Elevated pollutant levels threaten public health, potentially causing disease and premature mortality.
• Air quality management is crucial for mitigating health risks in industrial regions.