Effects of particulate air pollution on asthmatics

Twenty-four asthmatic subjects in Denver were followed from January through March 1979, a three-month period in which Denver air pollution levels are generally high and variable. Dichotomous, virtual impactor samplers provided daily measurements (micrograms/m3) of inhaled particulate matter (total m...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:American journal of public health (1971) 1983-01, Vol.73 (1), p.50-56
Main Authors: Perry, G B, Chai, H, Dickey, D W, Jones, R H, Kinsman, R A, Morrill, C G, Spector, S L, Weiser, P C
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Air Pollutants - adverse effects
Airway Obstruction - etiology
Airway Obstruction - physiopathology
Asthma - etiology
Asthma - physiopathology
Female
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Peak Expiratory Flow Rate
Regression Analysis
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Summary:Twenty-four asthmatic subjects in Denver were followed from January through March 1979, a three-month period in which Denver air pollution levels are generally high and variable. Dichotomous, virtual impactor samplers provided daily measurements (micrograms/m3) of inhaled particulate matter (total mass, sulfates, and nitrates) for coarse (2.5--15 micrograms in aerodynamic diameter) and fine fractions (less than 2.5 micrometers). Carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, ozone, temperature, and barometric pressure were also measured. Twice daily measurements of each subject's peak expiratory flow rates, use of as-needed aerosolized bronchodilators, and report of airways obstruction symptoms characteristic of asthma were tested for relationships to air pollutants using a random effects model across subjects. During the time actually observed, there were very few days in which high levels of suspended particulates were recorded. Of the environmental variables studied, only fine nitrates were associated with increased symptom reports and increased aerosolized bronchodilator usage.
ISSN:0090-0036
1541-0048
DOI:10.2105/AJPH.73.1.50