Concurrent Particulate Matter and Heat Exposure in Working and Non-working Women in Rural Guatemala.
Jaime Butler-Dawson1,2, Grant Erlandson3, Diana Jaramillo1,2
1Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
Atmosphere
|September 22, 2025
Summary
Women in Guatemala face high risks from co-exposure to heat and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Both occupational and residential settings showed significant exposure levels, highlighting the need for comprehensive prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- High temperatures and air pollution (PM2.5) are known health risks.
- Combined exposure can amplify adverse health effects.
- Understanding individual-level co-exposures is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare individual-level exposures to PM2.5 and heat among women in agricultural and residential settings in Guatemala.
- To assess co-occurring exposures in both occupational and non-occupational environments.
Main Methods:
- Personal and ambient exposure to PM2.5, temperature, and humidity were measured.
- Study included 21 female sugarcane workers and 30 community members.
- Measurements were taken during workdays, off-work days, and community days.
Main Results:
- Median workday personal PM2.5 concentration was 271 μg/m3, 3.6-fold higher than ambient levels.
- Personal PM2.5 levels were elevated on off-work and community days (95.8 and 83.5 μg/m3, respectively).
- Workdays had significantly higher average temperatures (39.4°C) and humidity (82.4%) compared to non-workdays.
Conclusions:
- Both sugarcane workers and community members experienced high PM2.5 and heat exposures.
- Individual-level exposures at work and home must be considered for effective prevention.
- Further research is needed to tailor comprehensive strategies to reduce health risks.
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