Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is the first leading environmental risk factor for death according to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Children are in a pivotal window stage of growth and development, and one of the most sensitive and vulnerable groups when they are exposed to PM2.5. E-waste refers to the abandoned electrical or electronic equipment. Informal e-waste dismantling activities, such as heating, burning, and roasting, will release a large number PM2.5 into the local atmosphere. PM2.5 exposure levels are higher in e-waste dismantling areas than those in reference areas. PM2.5 derived from e-waste contains a variety of toxic and harmful components such as transition metals and persistent organic pollutants. Few studies have focused on the exposure levels of PM2.5 and its compositions in e-waste dismantling areas, but little is known about their effects on children's health. Therefore, this study will briefly summarize the impact of PM2.5 on children's health in e-waste dismantling areas.
Keywords: Air pollution; Children; E-waste; Heavy metal; PM(2.5); Persistent organic pollutants.
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