Measurement of Atmospheric Particulate Matter (PM 2.5 and PM10) Concentrations in Lahore and Their Possible Impact on Mental Illness in Adults and Children.

Abstract

Objective: To measured the particulate matter concentration in the atmosphere around different areas in Lahore and high lights the possible future concerns regarding its impact on the mental health of the people especially children who are directly exposed to it.
Methods: The particulate matter concentrations (PM2.5, PM10, PM1) were measured using a calibrated digital device. The results were tabulated.
Results: The highest concentration of the particles were measured in The Data Darbar area (90
μg/m3) while the lowest was found in the GOR-1 area (61 μg/m3). Even the lowest concentration
found was much higher than what the WHO allows in a 24 hour period (24 μg/m3). Health
problems including mental health problems start to appear above an annual mean level of PM2.5
of 10 μg/m3. It is foreseeable, the possible immense impact of particulate pollution on mental
health in Lahore.Conclusions
Conclusions: The particulate matter concentrations in all areas in Lahore were beyond the acceptable WHO levels. Mental illness is strongly shown to be associated with the high concentrations of these particulate matters. Thus it is imperative that stringent and prompt action is taken to control pollution in all its forms.