COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PARTICULATE MATTER LEVELS AND HEALTH RISKS IN SCHOOLS IN URBAN AND RURAL AREAS OF DISTRICT MARDAN

Abstract

Atmospheric particles significantly impact urban and rural air quality, affecting the environment and human health. This study assessed particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10, and particles) in government schools in urban and rural areas of District Mardan. Two-way ANOVA and multivariate analysis tests were used to compare urban and rural schools. The mean PM2.5 values in urban and rural school classrooms were 174±63 µg/m3 and 117±41 µg/m3, respectively. In open spaces, the values were 142±43 µg/m3 and 100±24 µg/m3. PM10 levels in urban and rural classrooms were 252±107 µg/m3 and 157±67 µg/m3, respectively. In open spaces, the values were 137±81 µg/m3 and 108±25 µg/m3.The mean particle counts in urban and rural classrooms were 32334±18112 counts/L and 25681±14895 counts/L, respectively. In open spaces, the values were 20037±12453 counts/L and 23646±14965 counts/L. These values exceed World Health Organization standards. Two-way ANOVA showed significantly higher PM2.5 and PMlevels in urban schools. However, no significant difference was found in particle levels between urban and rural schools. Indoor/outdoor ratios and hazard quotient values indicated significant chronic non-cancer risk, particularly in primary schools. The highest excess lifetime cancer risk value was found in urban primary schools. These findings highlight the need for improved air quality measures in schools.

Keywords:

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), Government Schools, Pollutants, Health Impacts.