Dust Storms and Human Health

Dust storms play a pervasive role in the Earth system. They are events of considerable extent and of frequent occurrence in drylands. The amount of suspended material they contain is an important aspect of dust storms in relationship to health. They transport particulates, pollutants and biological materials for long distances downwind. In some parts of the world, though not all, they appear to be occurring with greater frequency, and some forecasts suggest that this will continue in response to increasing land-use pressures and lower soil moisture contents resulting from climate change. Studies, particularly in east Asia, show associations between dust events and a range of human health issues, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular complaints, meningococcal meningitis, coccidioidomycosis, conjunctivitis, skin irritation, measles, and transport accidents.