Abstract

Abstract Summary of the Study

Overview

Increased solar and geomagnetic activity (SGA) is proposed to influence human health by altering sympathetic nervous system activity, reducing antioxidant activity, and modifying physiochemical processes linked to atmospheric aerosols. These changes potentially impair pulmonary function.

Objectives

• Examine the relationship between lung capacity measures (FEV1 and FVC) and SGA.
• Evaluate whether increased SGA enhances adverse effects of particulate pollutants like black carbon (BC) and particulate matter ≤2.5 μm in diameter (PM2.5).

Methods

The study was conducted on 726 participants of the Normative Aging Study in Boston, Massachusetts, from 2000 to 2017. Measurements of interplanetary magnetic field (IMF), planetary K index (Kp), and sunspot number (SSN) were used as indicators of SGA. Linear mixed effects models assessed the association of SGA and pollution over moving averages up to 28 days.

Results

• Significant decreases in FEV1 and FVC were observed with increases in SGA indicators over 28 days.
• Increased levels of PM2.5 and BC intensify the reductions in FEV1 and FVC associated with higher SGA.
• Example: Higher particulate matter levels coupled with high solar activity are linked to more severe decreases in lung function.

Conclusion

Increased solar and geomagnetic activities contribute to impaired lung function and augment the adverse effects of particulate pollution. Given the widespread nature of solar exposure, heightened efforts to mitigate air pollution are necessary, particularly for the elderly. The ubiquity of solar exposure underscores the need for stringent air quality controls.