Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the changes in respiratory function associated with daily changes in particulate pollution.
METHODS
A total of 105 healthy schoolchildren of fourth and fifth grade elementary school age performed peak expiratory flow rates (PEFR) during 2 periods (May 14~June 15, Oct 22~Nov 23). We monitored concomitant ambient particulate matter (PM) levels during the periods.
RESULTS
An elevation PM(10) level of 1 microgram/m) led to decreases in PEFR of 0.20 L/min. A 1 microgram/m3 elevation of PM(2.5) led to a decrease of 0.36 L/min in PEFR. In addition, 1 day lag was associated with PM(10) levels and PEFR changes, and PM(2.5) showed the same result. The metal levels determined at PM(10) and PM(2.5) were found to be associated with decreased respiratory function.
CONCLUSIONS
An association between respiratory function and particulate pollution was observed when particulate pollutant levels were lower than the yearly average National Ambient Air Quality Standard in the Korea(50 microgram/m3).

• Keywords: Particulate matter;Respiratory function test;Children;Metals