Topic: Traffic-Related Air Pollution Exposure and Its Impacts on Vulnerable Populations

Traffic-Related Air Pollution (TRAP) is a major source of urban environmental contamination. It consists of pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), semi-volatile and volatile organic compounds (SVOCs and VOCs), like benzene, ozone precursors and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), all of which are closely linked to traffic sources. TRAP has significant implications for air quality and climate, and it is closely associated with a range of adverse health outcomes, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, neurodevelopmental disorders, and preterm birth.

Vulnerable populations—such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, low-income communities, and residents of high-traffic areas—are disproportionately impacted by TRAP exposure. These groups face higher exposure levels due to a combination of physiological, socioeconomic, and residential factors, and they often have limited resources to mitigate the health consequences of such exposure. Despite growing concern over the issue, research on the long-term health effects of TRAP, the health disparities among vulnerable populations, and effective mitigation strategies remains insufficient.

This Special Issue aims to explore the exposure pathways and intensity of TRAP among different populations, further examine the health effects of TRAP exposure in vulnerable groups and the potential mechanisms involved, advance risk assessment methods, and provide information for evidence-based policy making. Through exposure research, this issue aims to deepen our understanding of the variability and determinants of TRAP exposure and develop strategies to reduce exposure and protect public health.

Traffic-related air pollution (TRAP), particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ozone precursors, vulnerable populations, environmental contamination

30 Jun 2025