Mashup Score: 1
New York TimesA new study quantified the benefits of pollution reduction in terms of race and class.
See more from MarkAlain Dery, DO, MPH, FACOI
A large body of evidence shows that communities of color are disproportionately exposed to harmful fine particulate matter (FPM). In this study in the NEJM, the authors found that policy changes to increase the diameter of what is defined as ‘fine particulate matter’ from 2.5 micrometers to 4 micrometers will decrease mortality rates in high and low-income Black adults. This research is timely as the EPA is reviewing the standards for the maximum amount of FPM, and this study can help inform them of a final decision.