posted on 2024-02-27, 19:10authored byJintao Liu, Rong Song, Xuanxuan Li, Li Liu, Ning Wei, Jiajun Yuan, Weizhuo Yi, Rubing Pan, Jian Cheng, Xulai Zhang, Hong Su
Studies have indicated the different effects of PM2.5 components on human health. However, specific components
that influence
the severity of disease in schizophrenia patients and their underlying
mechanisms remain unclear. Therefore, a repeated measures study for
schizophrenia was constructed based on Anhui Mental Health Center.
We collected information, including demographics and thyroid hormones
(TH) levels, on repeat admissions of schizophrenia patients during
2017–2020, assessing their illness severity by positive and
negative symptom scales (PANSS). Concentrations from the nearest component
monitoring station in the 3 months before admission were assigned
as the participant’s exposure level. We assessed the effects
of PM2.5 components individually and in combination on
schizophrenia and explored the mediating role of THs. Results indicated
that benzo[a]pyrene, sulfate, nitrate, chloride,
ammonia, cadmium, chromium, lead, selenium, and thallium exposure
were associated with increased PANSS scores, with more significant
results observed in males. Mixed exposure to PM2.5 components
was found to be associated with increased PANSS scores and decreased
free triiodothyronine (FT3). Mediation analysis suggested that the
reduction in FT3 might mediate the association between the PM2.5 components and PANSS scores. The findings emphasize the
impacts of PM2.5 components on schizophrenia and the potential
value of focusing on changes in THs.