Impact of climate variability on pollen concentration morphology and pollinosis and application of integrated platform GIS meteorological for public health risk reduction

Abstract

Global climate change and increasing air pollution significantly impact airborne pollen concentration, which could increase the related allergic diseases. Hence, the present study examined the prevalence of pollen type, seasonal periodicities, the influence of meteorological parameters, air pollutants and land cover on pollen concentration in Chandigarh, including the health risks to the sensitive gardeners population. The first pollen calendar of Chandigarh was developed to provide a clear understanding for clinicians and allergy sufferers to identify potential allergy triggers and help to limit their exposure during high pollen loads. Pollen concentration was found to be sensitive to meteorological parameters and air pollutants. The study suggested that pollen response must be examined at the taxon level, not at the assemblage level with long datasets. Further, health risk assessment for gardeners showed that they remain unaware of occupational hazards, signifying awareness/training sessions to minimize the associated risks. Climatic variability and changing urban environments will significantly impact plant biological and phenological parameters. Considering this, the study formulated a framework of critical measures and recommendations at four hierarchical levels, i.e., Individual, Healthcare Communities and Organizations, Local Governments, and International, to reduce pollen allergy-related illnesses. Further, the study provides baseline data on pollen to compute future scenarios of changing environmental factors and comprehend the relationships among meteorology, air pollutants and airborne pollen. The study recommends that bioaerosols, including pollens, make a significant fraction of the ambient particulate matter and hence need to be studied further to minimize the risk of increasing allergic diseases in a changing climate. newline