Kai-Chung Cheng

Kai-Chung Cheng is an Assistant Professor of Environmental Health at San Diego State University (SDSU), affiliated with the College of Health and Human Services. His research focuses on indoor air quality, particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure assessment, and the health impacts of secondhand smoke, marijuana smoke, and vaping. He employs advanced monitoring techniques, including real-time sensors and machine learning, to quantify emission sources and spatial exposure gradients in residential and public settings.

Key areas of investigation include comparing tobacco and cannabis smoke emissions, evaluating fan-induced air mixing effects, and validating low-cost environmental sensors. His work extends to policy development, such as collaborating with California Indian communities on smoke-free casino policies. Cheng’s studies also address public health risks of marijuana vaping in outdoor spaces like golf courses and explore the efficacy of air purifiers in reducing allergen exposure for children.

Publications highlight methodological innovations, such as aerosol volatility estimation via piezobalance and PM2.5 calibration for low-cost monitors. His interdisciplinary approach integrates environmental engineering, toxicology, and geospatial analysis to address complex indoor/outdoor pollution challenges.