Mounting evidence points to air pollution as a cause of eczema

Air pollution is increasingly linked to an increased risk of eczema, with new research showing a clear link between air pollution and the skin condition.

Vehicles and power plants release pollutant particles 2.5 microns or smaller in diameter, known as PM2.5. These have previously been linked to a higher risk of eczemawhich is thought to be the result of an overactive immune system causing inflammation, leading to dry and itchy skin.

In order to collect more evidence, Jeffrey Cohen The Yale School of Medicine professor and his colleagues analyzed the medical records of more than 280,000 people, mostly in their 50s, who participated in the study All of us research project. The project collects health data on diverse populations in the United States, focusing on those typically underrepresented in research, such as racial and ethnic minorities.

The researchers also used data collected in 2015 to study average PM2.5 levels where these people lived. Center for Air, Climate and Energy Solutions in Virginia.

They then compared PM2.5 levels at 788 locations in the United States with diagnosed eczema cases through mid-2022. They found that for every 10 micrograms/cubic meter increase in PM2.5, the incidence of eczema more than doubled. “In more polluted areas of the country, there’s more eczema,” Cohen said.

The team took into account factors that could affect the results, such as race and whether people smoke or have food allergies.

“This study advances science by nicely demonstrating a clear correlation in a large population,” said Giuseppe Varachi at North Carolina State University. Valacchi said that when PM2.5 comes into contact with the skin, it can trigger the immune system to cause inflammation, just like pollen or dust mites. He said inhaling it may also play a role, as this can increase inflammation around the body.

Cohen said the study should give governments another reason to pursue policies to reduce air pollution. In the meantime, Wallachi said people living in polluted areas can reduce their risk by wearing long-sleeved clothing or staying indoors when pollution levels are particularly high.