Health effects of respirable particulate matter in Bangkok schoolchildren

The chronic effects of air pollution to Bangkok children were investigated. The lung function and respiratory symptoms of 570 children aged 10 to 15 years were examined during May–August 2004. Three study areas based on the level of PM10 obtained from the Pollution Control Department (PCD) ambient monitoring stations were selected as High-polluted area (H), Moderate-polluted area (M) and low-polluted area as a Control (C). Effects of residential area were estimated by the multiple logistic regression analysis. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms increased significantly [odds ratios (95% CI) in H and M are: 3.92 (2.02–7.59) and 2.36 (1.12–5.01), respectively]. There was no significant difference between impaired lung function among H, M and C. Residential location of subjects was associated with the prevalence of respiratory symptoms statistically significant. The other factors such as ATS-DLD responder, gender, age, parental smoking habits, use of air conditioners and possession of domestic pets were not associated with the respiratory symptoms. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms was higher among children living in areas with high- and moderate-pollution than those in an area with low-pollution statistically significant.