Dust episodes recorded increasingly often in Cyprus constitute a significant public health risk and require targeted legislation, according to pulmonologist Dr Charis Armeftis.
Speaking to CNA, Armeftis, who is also President of the Cyprus Pulmonology Society, said dust should be treated as a form of air pollution rather than a harmless natural phenomenon. He stressed that the fine particles it contains are toxic and can affect both the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
He explained that dust includes particulate matter such as PM10 and PM2.5, with the latter posing the greatest danger due to its ability to penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. These particles can trigger oxidative stress, inflammation and damage to respiratory tissues, while worsening existing heart and lung conditions.
The problem has intensified in recent years, he said, due to Cyprus’ geographical location and the broader effects of climate change, which have led to more frequent high-concentration dust events across the eastern Mediterranean.
Health impacts and vulnerable groups
Armeftis noted that the most vulnerable groups include patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and cardiovascular conditions. However, healthy individuals are also at risk, potentially experiencing symptoms such as eye irritation, coughing, nasal discharge and infections.
He added that long-term exposure carries further risks, as fine particles are classified as carcinogenic and contribute to lung cancer and other diseases.
Citing scientific data, he said that an increase of more than 10 micrograms per cubic metre in particulate matter is associated with a roughly 1 per cent rise in overall hospital admissions and a 1.2 per cent increase in admissions for cardiovascular conditions. He also referred to research from Athens showing that emergency visits for asthma can rise by around 40 per cent during high dust days, and by nearly 60 per cent for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Dust particles, he added, can also carry harmful substances such as metals, organic compounds, as well as viruses and bacteria, further increasing infection risks.
Need for protective measures and legislation
On public protection, Armeftis said precautions should be adjusted according to dust concentration levels, with vulnerable groups requiring particular care. As pollution levels rise, so do hospital admissions and indirect mortality linked to the phenomenon.
He warned that concentrations exceeding 300 micrograms per cubic metre pose a danger to the entire population. In such cases, and in line with guidance from the World Health Organization, outdoor work should be suspended and people should remain indoors.
He also advised avoiding unnecessary travel and outdoor activities during high dust days, while patients should strictly follow their treatment plans. Regarding masks, he clarified that only high-protection masks are effective, stressing that surgical masks offer no real protection.
Call for a legal framework
Armeftis said the Cyprus Pulmonology Society believes legislation is needed to manage days with dangerous dust levels, similar to measures applied during heatwaves.
“This is a public health issue. People are at risk of serious complications, hospitalisation or even death on those days,” he said, adding that recommendations alone are insufficient.
He noted that the Society intends to submit proposals to parliament based on international guidelines, with the aim of embedding them into law.
Source: CNA