Abstract:
Pulmonary tuberculosis, a major global infectious disease, may be influenced in its incidence and transmission by the meteorological phenomenon of dust weather. Currently, there is a lack of systematic review and comprehensive analysis on the epidemiological association between dust exposure and tuberculosis, as well as its underlying biological mechanisms. This paper delineates the fundamental distribution and physicochemical properties of dust weather. It reviews how dust events can lead to a surge in particulate matter, facilitate microbial transmission, and increase airborne pollutant concentrations, thereby adversely affecting respiratory health. The paper synthesizes potential mechanisms through which dust storms may impact the incidence or progression of tuberculosis. Epidemiological evidence suggests a positive correlation between dust exposure and pulmonary tuberculosis risk. Furthermore, studies linking dust to other respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia, are referenced to provide supporting evidence. Future population-based studies are warranted to further validate this association.