Evaluation of the relationship between C-reactive protein biomarker and particulate matter concentration from dust storms in Zahedan, Iran in 2024

The primary aim of the present research was to investigate the correlation between the level of airborne particulate matter (PM10) and C-reactive protein(CRP) in healthy individuals residing in Zahedan. The study was supported from February 2024 to September 2024. Environmental samples were collected every 6 days and on days with high levels of dust in Zahedan due to its climatic conditions. The concentration of suspended particulate matter was measured during these collections. In addition, the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was utilized to analyze the amount of CRP in the blood samples of 40 volunteers aged between 20 and 35 years under varying levels of air contamination. Throughout the study period, the average, minimum, and maximum concentrations of suspended particulate matter (PM10) were recorded as 55, 212, and 500 µg /m3, respectively, signifying that PM10 levels exceeded standard limits. Current evidence indicates that exposure to ambient particulate matter (PM) contributes to a range of harmful health effects, primarily through systemic inflammation.The levels of plasma CRP were notably higher during heightened air pollution conditions compared to normal conditions (p-value < 0.05). The concentration of suspended particles (PM10) surpassed the permissible threshold on the majority of measurement days. A positive association was observed between dust concentration and CRP levels. Given the exacerbation of cardiovascular and respiratory ailments when the levels of suspended particulate matter exceed regulated standards, it is imperative to prioritize health programs and personal well-being.