AN EXPLORATORY STUDY TO EXAMINE ABUNDANCE OF PM_2.5 AND ASSOCIATED DISEASE BURDEN IN BANGLADESH

Abstract. This study examined selected disease burdens in Bangladesh associated with particulate matter exposure using gridded population and PM_2.5 data between 2001 and 2019. The Global Exposure Mortality Model (GEMM) was used to determine hazard ratio (HR) and disease specific mortality. Besides, trend of PM_2.5 and selected diseases were evaluated. Results revealed that strong seasonality existed in PM_2.5 with winter exhibited maximum concentration. The trend assessment showed PM_2.5 was increasing over time. Among five diseases assessed, LRI was most sensitive to an increase of PM_2.5, followed by IHD, LC, CEV and COPD. Excess mortality was found to be elevating because of PM_2.5, particularly in major cities. This study could be useful in advancing research in the disease burden attributable to ambient air pollution in Bangladesh.