Visualization and analysis of PM2.5 health effects, 2013 to 2023: Bibliometrics of PM2.5 and health effects.

Background: To analyze the current status, hotspots, and cutting-edge trends of PM2.5 health effects of PM2.5, using CiteSpace.

Methods: The Web of Science Core Collection Science Citation Index Expanded was searched for relevant articles from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2023. Network maps identifying authors, institutions, countries, keywords, co-cited authors, journals, references, and research trends were then created using CiteSpace.

Results: A total of 2174 articles on the health effects of PM2.5 were identified between 2013 and 2023, with an increasing trend in annual publications. The United States had the highest number of articles on this topic, followed by China. The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) is the leading institute in terms of paper production. Hoek was the most prolific author, focusing on the health consequences of air pollution. Among referenced journals, ENVIRON HEALTH PERSP ranked first, while Pope Ca was the most cited author. Current research focuses on reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammation, oxidative stress, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, PM2.5 sources, and chemical composition. The field is currently experiencing a phase of rapid expansion.

Conclusion: The findings of this bibliometric analysis offer insight into the status and direction of research on PM2.5 and its health impacts, which aid scientists in coming up with new directions for their investigation.