Estimating the risk of anemia associated with PM2.5 exposure in Nepalese women of reproductive age
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Issued Date
2026-12-01
Resource Type
eISSN
2730664X
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105039563025
Journal Title
Communications Medicine
Volume
6
Issue
1
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Communications Medicine Vol.6 No.1 (2026)
Suggested Citation
Acharya S.R., Bhatta J. Estimating the risk of anemia associated with PM2.5 exposure in Nepalese women of reproductive age. Communications Medicine Vol.6 No.1 (2026). doi:10.1038/s43856-026-01533-6 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/116977
Title
Estimating the risk of anemia associated with PM2.5 exposure in Nepalese women of reproductive age
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Abstract
Background: Although evidence links particulate matter exposure to anemia, research focused on women remains scarce. This study investigates the risk of anemia associated with PM<inf>2.5</inf> exposure among Nepalese women of reproductive age. Methods: This study used nationally representative data from the 2022 Nepal Demographic and Health Survey, including a sample of 4133 women of reproductive age. Anemia was defined according to WHO guidelines (blood hemoglobin levels <12 g/dl for non-pregnant women and <11 g/dl for pregnant women), and mean PM<inf>2.5</inf> exposure data were obtained from the national air quality monitoring department. Results: Here we show that higher PM<inf>2.5</inf> exposure is associated with an increased risk of anemia among Nepalese women. Weighted regression models revealed a consistent inverse relationship between PM<inf>2.5</inf> and blood hemoglobin levels (β, 95% CI: −0.161, −0.228 ~ −0.099). Each 10-µg/m³ increase in PM<inf>2.5</inf> resulted in a 29% greater risk of anemia (OR, 95% CI: 1.29, 1.14–1.42). The associated risk was more pronounced among women with lower educational attainment and those residing in mountainous regions. Conclusions: This study provides substantial evidence linking air pollution to anemia in women of reproductive age, underscoring the urgent need for targeted health interventions and stricter air quality regulations in low-resource settings. (Figure presented.)