Analyzing the Effects of PM10 Exposure on Health and Economy, a Case Study of Chattogram City Corporation (CCC)

The primary objective of the present study is to evaluate the potential impact of PM10 on both the economy and public health within the Chattogram City Corporation Area (CCC), employing the BenMAP-CE software. The designated time frame for our study spans from 2019 to 2022, except for the year 2020, which was characterized by the global pandemic. The primary inputs utilized for evaluating the health impact consequences and economic benefits were Particulate Matter (PM10) data, population data, incidence rates and relative risk values, and Value of statistical life (VSL). The results revealed that over the course of the study period, there was a notable rise in the annual mean PM10 concentration value, surpassing the thresholds set by the World Health Organization. The year 2021 yielded significant health and economic advantages because of the dense population and elevated levels of particulate matter observed during this timeframe. In 2021, lowering PM10 levels is expected to significantly improve public health, potentially preventing 19,122 deaths from various causes. This preventive action could also result in an economic benefit of around 563 million USD by avoiding premature deaths. Moreover, cardiovascular disease accounts for 18% (3514 out of 19,122) of these avoidable deaths, while respiratory disease contributes to 21% (3964 out of 19,122) of the total avoidable deaths. Future research should focus on addressing current limitations, including the lack of regional data and the inclusion of relative risk. This study recommends the adoption of targeted strategies to efficiently manage and reduce ambient particulate matter levels, ultimately safeguarding public health in the coming years.