A mapping review of epidemiological evidence on outdoor air pollution and human health in Bangladesh
Abstract
Background Epidemiological evidence on the health effects of outdoor air pollution remains limited in low-income countries, particularly in Bangladesh. This study aims to systematically map the existing epidemiological evidence on the association between outdoor air pollution and human health outcomes in Bangladesh.Methods This mapping review followed established methodological guidelines for health science evidence mapping and was reported in accordance with the PRISMA. Literature searches were conducted in PubMed and Web of Science from database inception to 15 January 2026, using the Population-Exposure-Outcome (PEO) framework. Studies examining exposure to outdoor air pollution within epidemiological designs and conducted in Bangladesh were included.Results Of the 567 records identified, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. The earliest eligible study was published in 2017, with no clear increasing publication trend through January 2026. Most studies were based on Dhaka city. PM2.5 ( particles that are 2.5 microns or less in diameter) was the most frequently assessed exposure, while cardiovascular and respiratory diseases were the most commonly reported health outcomes. Study populations included pregnant women, children, and adults. Cross-sectional and ecological designs predominated.Conclusion Most included studies examined short-term effects and consistently reported adverse health outcomes associated with PM2.5 exposure. This mapping review highlights the limited but growing evidence base on outdoor air pollution and health in Bangladesh and may inform policy development, targeted public health interventions, and research funding priorities.
Citation Information
@article{abdullahalnayeem2026,
title={A mapping review of epidemiological evidence on outdoor air pollution and human health in Bangladesh},
author={Abdullah Al Nayeem and Taznim Ara Khanm},
journal={Discover Public Health},
year={2026},
doi={https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-9121173/v1}
}
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