Augsburg Environmental Assessment
In recent years it has become more and more obvious that ambient particles not only affect the lung function but also the cardiovascular system. So, for example, it has been shown that hospital admissions due to cardiac problems increase on days with elevated levels of air pollution.
With this study high-sensitive inflammation markers have been identified and although fluctuations in blood test results may be in the normal range nowadays statistics and molecular biology make it possible to obtain even information on the mechanisms of ambient particles and the health effects to be expected in times of air pollution peaks.
In parallel with the measurement program of the Bavarian Environment Agency we measure fine particles in Augsburg to characterize and identify their composition even more precisely. Each participant who agrees to make individual measurements is equipped with a mobile unit to be worn on the body that records the number of fine particles, noise and the microclimate. Thus we can make statements not only about the individual health relevance of concentrations at measuring sites but also in the personal surroundings.
The aim of the study is to advise policy makers in finding directives to set limit values and to take sensible measures. The study is financed by the Helmholtz Zentrum München and the Environmental Protection Agency of the United States of America.