In July 1997, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) promulgated a new standard for fine particulate matter (PM2.5). While the Agency acknowledged uncertainties in the supporting evidence, the threat to public health was considered sufficient to justify moving forward with the standard. Recognizing the need for further research, the Congress provided funding for research on particulate matter, but also called for the National Research Council (NRC) to appoint a committee that would develop a research agenda and then monitor progress on that agenda. The NRC appointed its Committee on Research Priorities for Airborne Particulate Matter in late 1997 and by March 1998, this multi-disciplinary committee had released its first report. In developing a research agenda, the Committee used the conceptual framework of a population risk model that begins with pollution sources and terminates with health effects. Key uncertainties were identified within this model and a 13-year "research portfolio" was proposed with ten research priorities to be addressed by a progressive and iterative research program that intermeshes methods development, toxicology, and epidemiology, along with source and exposure characterization. Three principles were used in developing this agenda: scientific value, decision-making value, and feasibility and timing. In its second report, the Committee explained criteria for monitoring progress, adding interaction, integration and accessibility. To date, the Committee's reports have had substantial impact assisting the EPA and other research funders in reshaping research agendas.
Learning Objectives: § Describe the scientific evidence for health effects of particulate air pollution § Identify the elements of scientific evidence required for standard setting § Identify weaknesses in the available scientific data § Develop a strategy for prioritizing research on effects of particulate air pollution
Keywords: Air Quality, Public Health Research
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.