Effects of Pollution on Lung Health: Studying the Impact of Urban Pollution on Lung Health, Including Asthma Prevalence and Lung Function in Exposed Populations

Abstract

Background: Urban air pollution poses significant risks to respiratory health, with emerging evidence suggesting an adverse effect on lung function and asthma prevalence. Given the rise in pollution levels and associated health impacts, there is a need to examine the differential effects based on age and exposure levels.

Objective: To study the impact of urban pollution on lung health, specifically focusing on asthma prevalence and lung function.

Methods: This longitudinal study involved 68 participants divided into two groups based on age: Group 1 (under 20 years) and Group 2 (20 years and above), each consisting of 34 individuals. The participants were monitored over a 12-month period, with spirometry tests conducted at baseline, 4 months, and 12 months to measure lung function (FEV1 as % predicted). Asthma prevalence was assessed at the same intervals. Environmental exposure to NO2 and PM10 was estimated using high-resolution land-use regression models, calibrated against local air quality monitoring stations. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests and multiple regression to adjust for confounders.

Results: At baseline, Group 1 exhibited a lung function of 98% predicted and an asthma prevalence of 10%, which improved to 100% and decreased to 8% respectively by 12 months. Conversely, Group 2 started with 92% lung function and 25% asthma prevalence, worsening to 88% and increasing to 30% respectively by the end of the study. Statistical analyses revealed significant differences between the groups at each time point (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: The study highlights the adverse impact of urban air pollution on respiratory health, with more pronounced effects in the exposed group of older individuals. The results advocate for stricter air quality controls and targeted public health interventions to mitigate pollution-related health risks.