Effects of urban air pollution on school-age children

Abstract

From November 1977 to March 1978, forced expiratory volumes (FEVs) of 78 second graders living in a high sulfur dioxide and smoke pollution area were compared with FEVs of 70 second graders living in a clean air area. The incidence of acute respiratory diseases in these children and their families was also comparatively studied during the same period. Indoor and outdoor measurements of sulfur dioxide and smoke, as well as additional measurements of suspended particulate matter (SPM) and sulfate were conducted. The results of the study suggest that at the actual average annual exposure to sulfur dioxide, smoke, and SPM of 70-80 microgram/m3, 60-80 microgram/m3, and 130-200 microgram/m3, respectively, with frequent exposures to three to five times higher daily sulfur dioxide and smoke concentrations and two times higher daily concentrations of SPM during the heating season, certain effects on the ventilatory functions and occurrence of acute respiratory diseases can be expected.