The eDPSEEA model (ecosystems-enriched Drivers, Pressures, State, Exposure, Effects, Actions) is a conceptual framework for an integrated assessment of human and ecosystem health, which facilitates an understanding and prediction of complex human-environment and ecosystem interactions.

This project aims to assess the feasibility of using the eDPSEEA model in predicting the shedding of paper mulberry pollen which may cause acute asthma, by collecting pollen data and correlating it with weather and other parameters; while also studying a cohort of sensitised vs non-sensitised asthma patients, and their response to pollen allergens. A modelling exercise in collaboration with German scientists, will help to devise the prediction model, to predict pollen shedding and dispersal up to 3 days prior to the event. This is important to allow patients and other stakeholders to plan for an impending peak of pollen allergy and it’s subsequent associated complications.

The outcome of this project will help to use the eDPSEEA model in other countries as well, as it is currently being used in Malaysia too.

For further information, see: https://www.ed.ac.uk/usher/respire/chronic-respiratory-disorders/seasonal-pollen-induced-asthma