Health effects of respirable particulate matter in Bangkok

Abstract

Chronic effects of air pollution in Bangkok schoolchildren aged 10 to 15 yr were investigated. Spirometry tests and respiratory symptoms by the American Thoracic Society's Division of Lung Diseases (ATS-DLD-78-C) questionnaire were conducted during May-August 2004. Effects of residential area were estimated by multiple logistic regression analysis. 722 (82%) of the 878 children were measured lung function test and filed in the ATS-DLD questionnaires. The studied sites were divided into four categories, roadside (R) and general area (G) with high (H), moderate (M) and low pollution (C). The prevalence of respiratory symptoms increased significantly with odds ratios (95% Confidence Interval) in HR and HG are: 2.44 (1.21-4.93) and 2.60 (1.38-4.91), respectively. Proportion of children with impaired lung function were not significantly different in H and M-polluted roadside and general area (HR; OR = 1.41 (95% CI 0.89-2.22), HG; 1.08 (0.71-1.64), MR; 0.99 (0.63-1.57)). Residential locations and family members were associated with the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, whereas those factors of responder of ATS-DLD, gender, age, residential years, home size, parental smoking habits, use of air conditioners, and domestic pets were not associated. Age was associated with the impaired lung function, whereas others factors were not associated. The association between exposure to fine particulate matter and respiratory symptoms in Bangkok schoolchildren was demonstrated. Bangkok populations' health may be adversely affected by the air pollution to which they are regularly exposed.