Epidemiological insights into the health impacts of dust storms

Abstract

Sand and dust storms are frequent environmental events characterized by high winds lifting large amounts of dust, reducing visibility and affecting air quality globally. While natural sources such as deserts are the primary contributors to dust emissions, human activities like deforestation and unsustainable agriculture, compounded by climate change, significantly enhance soil erosion, increasing dust storm prevalence. These storms carry high concentrations of pollutants across large distances, posing serious health risks. This review summarizes the different health impacts of dust storms using the most recent epidemiological evidence across several regions. Recent advancements in epidemiological research can guide future research to mitigate these effects.