Exposure to Air Pollution from Road Traffic and Incidence of Respiratory Diseases in the City of Meknes, Morocco

Residents of Meknes, Morocco, particularly those living near heavy road traffic, are at higher risk of respiratory diseases compared to those near industrial areas. A study using passive diffusive samplers and GIS-based health indicators found that nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations peak in the city center, correlating with increased incidence of acute respiratory illnesses and asthma attacks, especially among women aged 15–49 years and over 50, respectively. The research also revealed seasonal trends, with higher disease prevalence in winter and fall, and identified young children under 11 months as particularly vulnerable to pneumonia. This integrative approach highlights the significant impact of traffic-related pollution on public health, particularly in densely populated districts like the old Medina.

El Ghazi, I., Berni, I., Menouni, A., Amane, M., Kestemont, M.-P., & El Jaafari, S. (2022). Exposure to Air Pollution from Road Traffic and Incidence of Respiratory Diseases in the City of Meknes, Morocco. Pollutants, 2(3), 306–327. https://doi.org/10.3390/pollutants2030020