Researchers
Alan M. Garber (Principal Mentor) - Stanford University
Seema Jayachandran - Investigator

This study examines the link between exposure to particulate matter-a form of air pollution in which fine particles are suspended in the air-and adverse health outcomes for the elderly, who are hypothesized to be affected disproportionately. In order to continue to determine environmental standards for pollution and to design effective public health warnings about pollution, an understanding of the health effects is needed. Such policies are particularly pertinent to the elderly, who might be socially isolated and less able to leave an area during a high-pollution episode. The study combines data on all hospital admissions in California during the study period of 2001-2005 (including information on cause of admission, health care costs, date, location) with daily air pollution data collected via ground monitors throughout the state by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Contact
Nomita Divi