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Tracking Source Variations of Inhalation Cancer Risks and Ozone Formation Potential in Hong Kong over Two Decades
Yee Ka Wong1, Wai Wai Chan2, Dasa Gu1
1Division of Environment and Sustainability, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong 000000, China.
Environment & Health (Washington, D.C.)
|October 30, 2024
Summary
Toxic air pollutants (TAPs) significantly decreased inhalation cancer risks (ICRs) in Hong Kong from 2000-2020. Reductions in diesel particulate matter and VOCs lowered risks, but industrial solvent VOCs remain a concern.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Toxic air pollutants (TAPs) pose significant health risks, including cancer.
- Understanding the sources and trends of TAPs is crucial for public health.
- Hong Kong has experienced changes in air quality and associated health risks over two decades.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify changes in inhalation cancer risks (ICRs) attributed to TAPs in Hong Kong from 2000 to 2020.
- To identify the primary sources contributing to these ICRs and their evolution.
- To assess the future cancer risk landscape in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA).
Main Methods:
- Positive matrix factorization was used to identify TAP sources.
- Inhalation unit risk estimates were applied to quantify ICRs.
- Temporal trends of ICRs and source contributions were analyzed for 2000-2020.
Main Results:
- Total ICR in Hong Kong decreased from 1701 to 451 cases per million between 2000-2004 and 2016-2020.
- Reductions in diesel particulate matter (DPM), gasoline/solvent VOCs, and coal/biomass combustion products were primary drivers.
- Industrial and halogenated solvent VOCs emerged as the largest non-DPM ICR contributor (37%) in 2016-2020.
- Ozone formation potential from VOC/carbonyl sources shifted from solvent/gasoline dominance to a more even distribution.
Conclusions:
- Significant progress has been made in reducing TAPs and associated ICRs in Hong Kong.
- Industrial solvent VOCs represent a growing concern requiring targeted management.
- A comprehensive risk evaluation for the GBA and establishing a TAP monitoring network are essential for future air quality strategies.
