THE IMPACT OF AIR POLLUTION ON PUBLIC HEALTH IN SOME REGIONS OF KOSOVO
Daorson ALIU, Teuta KRYEZIU-ALIU
Abstract
Background: Air pollution is a major environmental and public-health concern in Kosovo, particularly in urban areas during winter. Fine particulate matter (PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅) poses significant health risks due to its ability to penetrate deep into the respiratory system. Methods: Daily PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅ measurements for 2024 were analyzed for Pristina, Peja, and Gjilan using data from the Kosovo Hydro-Meteorological Institute. Annual and seasonal averages were compared with WHO and EU air-quality standards. Pearson correlation analysis was used to assess the relationship between PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅ levels. Results: All regions exceeded WHO annual limits for PM₁₀ (15 µg/m³) and PM₂.₅ (5 µg/m³), while remaining within EU limits. Pristina recorded the highest annual concentrations (PM₁₀: 28.3 µg/m³; PM₂.₅: 18.21 µg/m³). Winter pollution levels were more than twice as high as summer values, especially in Gjilan. A strong correlation between PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅ (r = 0.98**) indicates common emission sources such as traffic, construction dust, and solid-fuel heating. Health data from Kosovo show rising rates of respiratory, cardiovascular, and cancer cases associated with chronic particulate exposure. Conclusion: Urban areas in Kosovo experience persistent air pollution that exceeds WHO recommendations, particularly during winter. The observed seasonal and regional patterns underscore the urgent need for improved air-quality monitoring, stricter emission controls, and targeted public-health measures.
Pages: 53 - 61