The Hellenic Geological and Mining Authority (EAGME) prepared a particularly interesting study regarding the establishment of African dustwhich covered our country.
EAGME collected and analyzed using the new state-of-the-art scanning electron microscope JSM-IT500L, which has the ability to magnify up to 300,000 times, a sample of the African dust that has covered Attica in recent days.
Optically, the powder does not exceed 10μm in size, while its chemical composition includes the elements aluminum (Al), silicon (Si) and calcium (Ca) with a minimum percentage of iron (Fe) and titanium (Ti).
African dust is essentially a plaything that floats and moves due to the wind and its small size.
The following photos show the first results from the qualitative analysis of the African dust.
Health risks and protective measures
Scientists are drawing attention to vulnerable groups amid the peak of the African dust phenomenon, recommending them to wear a protective mask and avoid travel.
Particular emphasis is placed on citizens with respiratory problems, heart patients, children as well as people over 65 years of age, who should avoid any physical exercise-activity outdoors.
It should be noted that people with asthma may need inhalations of relief medicine more often, while in case the symptoms persist it is recommended to contact the attending physician.
African dust: The recommendations of pulmonologists
People with pre-existing respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable during periods of increased dust levels and this is reflected in increased hospital admissions.
African dust affecting Greece is a relatively frequent phenomenon, particularly when meteorological conditions favor the transport of dust particles from the Sahara desert.
The frequency and intensity of African dust phenomena in Greece can vary from year to year, from 7 to 20 episodes (average 13 episodes/year), depending on atmospheric conditions and the amount of dust transported from the Sahara. In general, it is not unusual for Greek space to be affected by African dust.
This natural event can have significant effects on the health of the inhabitants of our country, mainly through the degradation of air quality. African dust carries particles in a wide range of sizes, such as PM10, PM2.5 or even much smaller, and can also entrain pollutants from the atmosphere. An increase in particulate matter in the atmosphere can worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and allergies. People with pre-existing respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable during periods of increased dust levels and this is reflected in increased hospital admissions.
Special attention required for residents of urban centers and areas with already low air quality.
- Respiratory effect. One of the primary health effects of African dust is its effect on respiratory health. Fine dust particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. For people with conditions such as asthma, bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), exposure to these particles can worsen symptoms, leading to shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing and chest discomfort.
- Allergies and irritation. African dust can cause allergic-type reactions in some people, respiratory tract irritation, nasal congestion, sneezing and watery eyes. People with allergies or sensitivities to environmental factors may experience increased symptoms during periods of increased levels of African dust.
- Cardiovascular effects. In addition to respiratory problems, exposure to African dust has been linked to cardiovascular problems. Particulate matter can contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress, and vasoconstriction, which can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases, especially in vulnerable populations.
- Effect on the immune system. Prolonged exposure to African dust can also affect the immune system, making people more vulnerable to respiratory infections and other illnesses. The inflammatory response caused by dust particles can weaken the body’s defenses and make it harder to fight pathogens.
- Long-term health risks. Chronic exposure to African dust and its associated pollutants has been associated with long-term health risks, including respiratory disease, reduced lung function, cardiovascular disorders, and even some types of cancer. Continuous exposure to high levels of dust particles can have cumulative health effects over time. According to a 2020 review of the impact of dust on air quality in Europe, an estimated 42,000 deaths/year are attributed to dust, while in Mediterranean countries it has been estimated that 27-44% of the number of deaths are related to PM10 particles it is due to African dust.
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