About this Research Topic
The field of environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) is gaining attention due to its potential link to adverse health effects from pollution exposure. While the relationship between pollution and non-communicable diseases such as heart disease and asthma is well-established, the role of EPFRs in this dynamic remains underexplored. EPFRs are harmful molecules that persist in particulate matter (PM) resulting from the incomplete combustion of organic materials like wood and coal. These particles can interact with other substances, initiating harmful chemical reactions. Despite the well-documented risks of air pollution, particularly from PM2.5 emitted by vehicles, the specific impact of EPFRs on health has not been sufficiently studied. Indoor pollution sources, such as old heaters and wood-burning stoves, also contribute significantly to EPFR exposure but are often overlooked. This gap in awareness is partly due to differing terminologies used by chemists, epidemiologists, and public health experts, as well as a lack of focus on the nature of the burned material in many studies. Addressing these gaps is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the health impacts of EPFRs.
This Research Topic aims to bridge the knowledge gap among chemists, public health experts, and disease researchers, providing a more intersectional understanding of the issue. The main objectives are to highlight areas that require further research to fully understand and address the health impacts of indoor and outdoor pollutants rich in EPFRs. Specific questions include: What are the mechanisms through which EPFRs form and persist in the environment? How strong is the association between EPFR exposure and various health conditions? Are current public policies adequately addressing the risks posed by EPFRs? By answering these questions, the research aims to inform better regulatory practices and public health strategies.
To gather further insights into the boundaries of EPFR research, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Explanations of what EPFRs are, how they form, and their potential health risks.
- The strength of the association between outdoor pollution caused by vehicles, coal power plants, factories, etc., and EPFR release.
- The impacts of indoor pollution caused by heating mechanisms, cooking appliances, and indoor smoking on the creation of EPFRs.
- Investigations into the impact of EPFRs on both chronic and acute health conditions, particularly respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
- Current public policy around pollution and analyzing whether it addresses the risks posed by EPFRs adequately.
- Gaps in the current understanding of EPFRs and proposing topics for future comprehensive research.
- Strategies for raising public awareness about the dangers of EPFRs, and methods for advocating for stronger regulations and cleaner environments.
This Research Topic aims to bridge the knowledge gap among chemists, public health experts, and disease researchers, providing a more intersectional understanding of the issue. The main objectives are to highlight areas that require further research to fully understand and address the health impacts of indoor and outdoor pollutants rich in EPFRs. Specific questions include: What are the mechanisms through which EPFRs form and persist in the environment? How strong is the association between EPFR exposure and various health conditions? Are current public policies adequately addressing the risks posed by EPFRs? By answering these questions, the research aims to inform better regulatory practices and public health strategies.
To gather further insights into the boundaries of EPFR research, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Explanations of what EPFRs are, how they form, and their potential health risks.
- The strength of the association between outdoor pollution caused by vehicles, coal power plants, factories, etc., and EPFR release.
- The impacts of indoor pollution caused by heating mechanisms, cooking appliances, and indoor smoking on the creation of EPFRs.
- Investigations into the impact of EPFRs on both chronic and acute health conditions, particularly respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
- Current public policy around pollution and analyzing whether it addresses the risks posed by EPFRs adequately.
- Gaps in the current understanding of EPFRs and proposing topics for future comprehensive research.
- Strategies for raising public awareness about the dangers of EPFRs, and methods for advocating for stronger regulations and cleaner environments.
Keywords: Environmentally Persistent Free Radicals (EPFRs), Non-Communicable Disease, Exposure Assessment, Susceptibility to Respiratory Infections, Particulate Matter, Oxidative Stress, Antioxidant Therapy
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
