Dust can range in both composition and particle size depending on the global location

In the Middle East, dust and sand storms are a persistent problem delivering significant amounts of particulates via inhalation into the mouth, nasal pharynx, and lungs. The health risks of this dust inhalation are not well studied nor effectively characterized. Experiments were designed to study the chemical composition, mineral content, or microbial flora of Kuwaiti and Iraqi dust for its potential to cause adverse health effects. Multiple site samples were collected and chemical and physical characterization including particle size distribution and inorganic analysis was conducted, followed by characterization of biologic flora, including bacteria, fungi and viruses. Data indicates that the mineralized dust is composed of calcium carbonate over a matrix of metallic silicate nanocrystals and compounds containing a variety of trace and heavy metals constituting ~3 % of the PM10 particles by weight, of which ~1% is bioavailable aluminum and reactive iron, each. Microbial analysis reveals a significant biodiversity of bacteria of which ~25 % are known pathogens. Of the microbes identified, several have alpha and/or beta hemolytical characteristics and show significant antibiotic resistance. Viral analysis indicates a high level of virons with RNA viruses representing a large percent. The level of total suspended particle mass at PM10 constitutes an excessive exposure micro-particulates including PM-2.5. Cell culture and animal studies have indicated a high level of toxicity to these dust particles. These data suggest that at the level of dust exposure commonly found in the Middle East, coupled with their microbial and metal content, constitute a significant health risk, both acute and chronic, to deployed troops.