Effects of long-term exposure to air pollution on respiratory function and physical efficiency of pre-adolescent children

OBJECTIVES The purpose of the present study was to analyze the relationship between the levels of air pollutants and respiratory function/physical efficiency of pre-adolescent children living in the Upper Silesian Industrial Region. MATERIAL AND METHODS Spirometric evaluations and physical exercise test were performed in 103 children aged 14-16. Standard spirometry was used to analyze: vital capacity (VC), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and maximal voluntary volume (MVV). From 1994 through 2008, air pollutants were regularly monitored, and compared with reference ranges. RESULTS Differences were noted in the average annual pollutant (SO2, NO2, PM10, CO) concentrations during the observation period. Exposure to air pollution was associated with reduced respiratory function and may lead to a decline in physical efficiency in pre-adolescent children. CONCLUSIONS The pollution-related reduction of lung function in childhood might be related, at least partially, to long-term exposure to particulate air pollutants, and especially in those children who spend more time practicing outdoor sports.