Considering the Chemical Components of Particulate Matter 2.5 for Assessing Its Health Risks to Residents near the Ansan/Siheung and Ulsan Industrial Complexes

While studies on the reduction and management of PM 2.5 are currently underway, there is a limitation in not considering the types and effects of the toxic chemicals deposited on PM 2.5 based on regional sources’ variations. Therefore, this study was conducted to confirm the necessity of health effects research considering the toxic chemicals deposited on PM 2.5 exposure in the study of health effects related to PM 2.5 exposure. Over approximately 2 years, we measured the concentrations of PM 2.5 and heavy metals in the air during both spring and winter. The study focused on the Ansan/Siheung industrial complex and the Ulsan industrial complex. Based on the measured concentrations, we calculated and compared the health risks with PM 2.5 and heavy metal exposure for each industrial complex. The concentration analysis results revealed differences in the concentrations of PM 2.5 , Ni, Mn, As, and Cr between the two regions. Furthermore, the calculated health risks associated with PM 2.5 and heavy metals also showed differences between the regions. In this study, differences in the concentrations of PM 2.5 and its chemical components were observed based on the industrial sources and regional characteristics of each industrial complex. These variations were shown to lead to differences in the levels of health impacts. The results emphasize the importance of considering not only PM 2.5 but also its chemical components for accurate and efficient health effect assessments.