Environmental particulate matter and postoperative outcome: an analysis of the Perioperative Quality Improvement Programme database

Air pollution, particularly tiny particles in the air (known as particulate matter), is known to harm health. It has been linked to long-term problems such as asthma, as well as short-term risks, especially for people who are already very ill.

This study will explore whether exposure to air pollution affects patients recovering from major surgery. We will link detailed information from the Perioperative Quality Improvement Programme (PQIP), which follows patients having surgery, with environmental data on air pollution, temperature, and humidity recorded at the same time.

By analysing these combined datasets, we aim to find out whether pollution is associated with short-term complications and poorer outcomes for surgical patients. This knowledge could help identify new ways to protect patients and improve recovery after surgery.

Lead Investigator