Assessing the Impact of Sand and Dust Storms on Residents’ Health in the State of Kuwait
摘要
Wind plays a critical role in desert ecosystems as it transports fine soil particles and triggers sand and dust storms (SDSs). These SDSs can have a significant impact on environmental quality and adverse effects on human health, including pulmonary, ocular, and skin diseases. Kuwait frequently experiences dust events, totaling approximately 255.5 days annually. Dust is a prominent weather-related issue in Kuwait and, along with other harsh climatic conditions, is a primary factor influencing various health issues. This study aimed to investigate and monitor dust events in Kuwait over a five-year period (2019–2023) and assess their impact on residents. Data on dust events were obtained from the Kuwait Meteorological Department. In addition, 1000 questionnaires were distributed to Kuwaiti residents, either remotely or in person, to assess the impact of dust on residents’ health. The meteorological data showed that a significant portion of each year experienced haze, with dust storms, blowing dust, and dust haze occurring predominantly in May, June, and October, respectively. Among the 206 respondents to the survey, 63.59% had experienced bronchial asthma, and their children experienced asthma and allergies in parallel with dust events. The study results can be used to raise awareness among decision-makers and guide the design of eco-friendly cities to avoid the negative impacts of dust on society, the economy, and residents’ health. Furthermore, solutions are needed for existing cities to avoid dust hazards.