Hamza Mbareche
(Photo : Hamza Mbareche)

As a postdoctoral researcher in aerosol science, molecular biology, the microbiome and genomics, Hamza Mbareche can be expected to have an intense academic interest in the quality of the air we breathe. But the Ontario scientist is also on a mission to make an impact in real-world situations, improving the lives and reducing health risks for communities across Canada.

"Beyond the theoretical aspect of studying complex air quality issues, I saw a practical need to offer solutions," says Hamza Mbareche. "I've taken my knowledge, experience and insights and applied them to issues of air quality in residential and office environments."

The issue of air quality in homes, businesses and the atmosphere has risen as a matter of concern among public and scientific professionals over recent years. The stream of relevant academic research has become a torrent, and many of these new studies are signaling that the dangers of airborne pollutants are greater than many had imagined.

Some of these studies demonstrate that even trace particles of pollutants can dramatically increase risks of cancer and other serious health issues, as well as shorten longevity in affected populations. As a result, it's becoming clear that traditional air quality standards, whether established by business or governments, are not sufficient to protect the public.

And then there is the economic price tag, estimated to be at least $120 billion annually in Canada. That does not count the human cost, which can range from development of chronic medical issues to long-term hospitalization, and worse.

"Harmful air is a danger to families, employees and communities," says Mbareche. "Finding the source of contaminants in the air, measuring the quantity of pollutants, and using advanced technology to remedy the issue are necessary first steps in ensuring your health and the health of colleagues, friends and loved ones."

Hazardous particles include bacteria, viruses, fungi and man-made substances such as asbestos that may cause cancer. Many of these particles can linger for extensive periods in the air, and can become widely dispersed.

Mbareche points out that unhealthy indoor air is usually the result of interior sources, rather than outdoor air seeping into buildings. Furniture can release formaldehyde, and cooking, heating units, plastics, and household products can all produce dangerous organic compounds. Carpets are a source of bacteria and fungi, which can be aerosolized into the air by simple activities like walking. Mold growing on surfaces and within walls can generate airborne fungus particles, and dust is the optimal transmission agent for dust mites.

Although detecting and measuring these airborne risks involves sensitive instruments, sophisticated computations and new technologies, basic preventative measures also play a central role in addressing and mitigating these issues.

For indoor air, that can mean something as simple as opening windows and using fans. Constant ventilation helps extrude particles from a room, and keeping surfaces dry can prevent the growth of mold. Paying close attention to the household products and interior design items you purchase such as paints, carpet and paneling can reduce the amount of organic compounds that will be generated inside a dwelling.

In the academic world, Mbareche's research interests often center on environmental health and patient care; specific projects have examined airborne viral transmission in a simulated intensive care unit, the whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of SARS-CoV-2 from patients swabs and environmental samples (air and surfaces), the WGS of the Influenza A virus in bioaerosols collected from swine barns, and the detection and sequencing of Orthobunyaviruses from mosquitoes collected in Southern Ontario.

He has held fellowships and research positions at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto and Université Laval in Quebec City. A frequent author, Mbareche has assisted in 35 articles for peer-reviewed scientific publications. He currently serves as the vice president of the University of Toronto's Postdoctoral Association.

"We all know that air is essential to life," Hamza Mbareche notes. "Increasingly, many are now also learning the important lesson that air quality is fundamental to health, longevity and quality of life."