THE IMPACT OF AIR POLLUTION ON PUBLIC HEALTH IN SOME REGIONS OF KOSOVO

ALIU, Daorson and KRYEZIU-ALIU, Teuta (2026) THE IMPACT OF AIR POLLUTION ON PUBLIC HEALTH IN SOME REGIONS OF KOSOVO. ACTA MEDICA BALKANICA International Journal of Medical Sciences, 11 (21-22). pp. 53-61.

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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.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
Divisions: Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences > School of Medicine
Depositing User: Unnamed user with email zshi@unite.edu.mk
Date Deposited: 03 Nov 2026 13:38
Last Modified: 03 Nov 2026 13:38
URI: http://eprints.unite.edu.mk/id/eprint/2683

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