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Abstract
To determine the population exposure to PM(10) in Chongqing, China, we developed an
indirect model by combining information on the time activity patterns of various demographic
subgroups with estimates of the PM(10) concentrations in different microenvironments
(MEs). The spatial and temporal variations of the exposure to PM(10) were illustrated
in a geographical information system (GIS). The population weighted exposure (PWE)
for the entire population was 229, 155 and 211 microg/m(3), respectively, in winter,
summer and as the annual average. Indoor PM(10) level at home was the largest contributor
to the PWE, especially for the rural areas where high pollution levels were found
due to solid fuels burning. Elder people had higher PM(10) exposure than adults and
youth, due to more time spent in indoor MEs. The highest health risk due to particulate
was found in the city zone and northeast regions, suggesting that pollution abatement
should be prioritized in these areas.