Abstract

MASSOLO, Laura Andrea et al. Air pollution and children's health in urban and industrial areas of La Plata, Argentina. Acta bioquím. clín. latinoam. [online]. 2008, vol.42, n.4, pp.567-574. ISSN 0325-2957.

The influence of air pollution on human health has been studied during the last decades. In this sense, several epidemiological studies have shown an association between air pollutants and various diseases. In the present study an epidemiological questionnaire was applied to a population of children between 3 and 6 years of La Plata and its neighbouring areas, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Four different areas were considered: urban, industrial, semi-rural and residential. Results show significant correlations between industrial area and chronic bronchitis and skin photosensitivity. These results depend on the high levels of particles, organic compounds bound to particles and volatile organic compounds found in the industrial area compared to control zones. Other significant correlations are related to the use of kerosene for heating and cooking, and a predisposition to develop bronchitis. Besides, the analyses of questionnaires show a correlation between bronchiolitis and heavy traffic. This investigation contributes with preliminary information to future epidemiological studies in the region.

Keywords : Air pollution; Health effects; Epidemiological questionnaires; Bronchitis; Bronchiolitis; Particulate matter; Volatile organic compounds.

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