Analytical observational studies are used to assess health outcomes in relation to specific risk factors. The B-EHRG research group focuses on studying environmental exposures to which the population is continuously exposed, even if at relatively low levels. To evaluate these types of associations, cohort studies are required—longitudinal studies in which exposure and outcomes are collected at different time points, along with other relevant variables that help adjust predictive models, such as socioeconomic status. We approach this objective from two different perspectives: through the detailed collection of data and close follow-up of participants, as in the INMA (Childhood and Environment) and UGARE (Urban Green Activity Reproductive Effects) projects, and through the use of information obtained from public health records.

Line 2.1 – Association studies between environmental exposures, urban environment, and health in vulnerable populations

As mentioned in Line 1, the INMA and UGARE projects are longitudinal studies of pregnant women. UGARE focuses specifically on aspects of the built urban environment—such as walkability, green space, and environmental noise—during pregnancy and their effects at birth. INMA, in contrast, is a larger-scale project that assesses exposure to a wide range of environmental variables during pregnancy and childhood, and their effects from pregnancy through to age 18.

Line 2.2 – Association studies in pregnant women and adults related to air pollution exposure

To analyze this association, we used Department of Health records to obtain information on health indicators related to reproductive outcomes (weight, height, and gestational age), hospital admissions, and mortality. We also used air quality data from the Basque Government's air quality network. In this way, we obtained daily information on atmospheric pollutants, the number of births, admissions, and mortality. The record-based methodology is highly valid as long as all the individual information on the subjects is available. So far, risk has been assessed before the implementation of the Energy Recovery Plant (ERP), and risk estimates are planned for the coming years after its implementation.