Association between Air Pollution and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Developing Countries: A Systematic Review and
Zi-Han Chen1, Zhou Zhao1,2, Chui-Wen Deng3
1Department of Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is linked to a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in developing nations. Further research is needed to explore incidence, but reducing PM2.5 exposure is crucial for vulnerable populations.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Growing evidence suggests air pollution is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
- This systematic review and meta-analysis focuses on the association between air pollution and T2DM specifically within developing countries.
Approach:
- A comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science was conducted for studies published up to March 31, 2022.
- Included studies focused on the association between air pollution and T2DM prevalence or incidence in developing countries.
- Meta-analysis was performed using odds ratios (OR) to synthesize findings from 16 included studies (8 cross-sectional, 8 cohort).
Key Points:
- Meta-analysis of 8 studies revealed a significant positive association between exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and T2DM prevalence (OR=1.12; 95% CI: 1.07, 1.17; P<0.001).
- The association between air pollutants and T2DM incidence could not be estimated due to a limited number of relevant studies.
- All included studies were conducted in developing countries.
Conclusions:
- Exposure to PM2.5 is positively associated with an increased prevalence of T2DM in developing countries.
- Effective measures to reduce air pollutant exposure are recommended for individuals vulnerable to diabetes.
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