Uncovering the research landscape on indoor air pollution and public health: Bibliometrics and literature review (2001-2024)

Abstract

The growing concern about the health risks posed by indoor air pollutants has led to extensive research on the relationship between Indoor Air Pollution and Public Health (IAPPH). This study critically examined the scientific progress and technological developments in IAPPH research. Publication trends, bibliometric analysis, and literature review methods were employed to analyze publications indexed in the Scopus database between 2001 and 2024. The keywords “indoor air pollution,” “health,” and “public health” were used to identify relevant studies. Bibliometric networks and visualizations were generated using VOSviewer. Findings revealed 151 publications, consisting of 56.29% articles, 17.88% reviews, and 11.26% conference papers. Stakeholder analysis, which considered leading authors, affiliations, funding agencies, and countries, highlighted Majid Ezzati (United Kingdom) and the University of California, Berkeley (United States) as the most productive contributors. Their high output was linked to strong financial support and international collaborations. Funding analysis indicated that organizations in the United States and China were the primary sponsors of IAPPH research. The literature review identified particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, and Carbon Oxides (COx) as major indoor pollutants that contribute to allergic, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases, especially among women, children, and the elderly. These findings underscore the need for mitigation strategies, such as cleaner fuels, improved stove efficiency, and better ventilation systems, to minimize emissions and protect human health, safety, and the environment. Overall, the study indicates that IAPPH is a complex, interdisciplinary research field with significant social, economic, and scientific implications.