Perceived Versus Measured Air Quality in Kuwait
The Role of Respiratory Symptoms in Detecting PM2.5
Received: 2 June 2025 | Revised: 8 September 2025 | Accepted: 21 September 2025 | Online: 8 December 2025
Corresponding author: Takeaki Toma
Abstract
This study investigated the gap between the perceived and actual air quality in Kuwait and its implications for public health. A structured questionnaire was designed with three main sections: demographic information, lifestyle habits, and perceptions of air quality. Perceived air quality data were compared with real-time PM2.5, PM10, HCHO, and Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC) measurements. Although the PM2.5 and PM10 levels were statistically associated with the perceived air quality (Odds Ratios (OD) of 1.04 and 1.03, respectively), the practical effect was minimal. Most participants did not recognize poor air quality until PM2.5 exceeded 59 μg/m³ - nearly four times higher than the WHO short-term exposure limit - implying limited real-world sensitivity to pollution. In contrast, health status, particularly chronic cough or asthma, strongly influenced air quality perception. Smoking, frequent exposure to perfume, or exposure to Bukhoor were not significantly associated with the participants' perception of air quality, possibly suggesting olfactory fatigue. These findings pointed to a regional desensitization to air pollutants and highlighted the need for improved public awareness, early alert systems, and protective interventions for at-risk populations.
Keywords:
PM2.5, perceived air quality, respiratory health, olfactory fatigue, cognitive biasesDownloads
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