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. 2013 Mar;13(1):137-43.
doi: 10.4314/ahs.v13i1.19.

Influence of indoor formaldehyde pollution on respiratory system health in the urban area of Shenyang, China

L Zhai  1 , J Zhao, B Xu, Y Deng, Z Xu
Affiliations

Influence of indoor formaldehyde pollution on respiratory system health in the urban area of Shenyang, China

L Zhai et al. Afr Health Sci. 2013 Mar.

Abstract

Background: The decoration of interior spaces can lead to dangerous levels of indoor formaldehyde pollution. Exposure to indoor air pollution may be responsible for nearly 2 million deaths per year in developing countries.

Objectives: To assess the prevalence of indoor formaldehyde pollution caused by decoration and resultant respiratory system symptoms exhibited in exposed adults and children, due to indoor formaldehyde pollution caused by decoration.

Methods: Survey sites were chosen and indoor formaldehyde concentrations determined according to the standard of formaldehyde in GB50325-2001. Logistic regression models were used to derive odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) after adjusting for potential confounders for this survey.

Results: Formaldehyde concentration was above the standard in 64% of Shenyang City. Some adults surveyed complained of common respiratory system disorders, including coughing (11.8%), nasal irritation (39.2%), Heterosmia (14.51%), and throat irritation (25.27%); 12% of children suffered from asthma. The analysis identified formaldehyde pollution and ventilation frequency as risk factors for respiratory system disorders in both adults (OR=2.603, [95% CI: 1.770-3.828], OR=1.604, [95% CI: 1.146-2.244], respectively) and children (OR=4.250, [2.064-8.753], OR=1.831, [1.006-3.333], respectively).

Conclusion: The prevalence of common respiratory system disorders was related both to formaldehyde pollution and insufficient ventilation after decorating.

Keywords: Formaldehyde; adult; children; respiratory system.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Effect of temperature and weather on indoor formaldehyde in Shenyang, China Homes, n=number of homes Note. * Compared to spring and autumn p<0.05
Figure 2
Figure 2
Changes in formaldehyde concentration over time
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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