Cyprus: High Dust Levels – Health Risk

Increasingly frequent dust events in Cyprus constitute a "public health problem" and require legislative measures, according to Dr. Haris Armeftis, President of the Cyprus Pulmonology Society.

The particulate matter contained in the dust is toxic and burdens the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, endangering the population, as Dr. Armeftis stated to the Cyprus News Agency (CYPE).

The problem has intensified due to Cyprus' geographical location and climate change, increasing the days with high dust concentrations. The dust contains PM10 and PM2.5 particles, which can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and burden cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.

Vulnerable groups, such as patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and cardiological problems, are most at risk. Dr. Armeftis emphasized that surgical masks do not offer protection and recommended the use of high-protection masks.

The Cyprus Pulmonology Society proposes the enactment of legislation for days with dangerous dust levels, similar to the measures for heatwaves.