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Murphy J, Tharumakunarajah R, Holden KA, King C, Lee AR, Rose K, Hawcutt DB, Sinha IP. Impact of indoor environment on children's pulmonary health. Expert Rev Respir Med 2023; 17:1249-1259. [PMID: 38240133 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2024.2307561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A child's living environment has a significant impact on their respiratory health, with exposure to poor indoor air quality (IAQ) contributing to potentially lifelong respiratory morbidity. These effects occur throughout childhood, from the antenatal period through to adolescence. Children are particularly susceptible to the effects of environmental insults, and children living in socioeconomic deprivation globally are more likely to breathe air both indoors and outdoors, which poses an acute and long-term risk to their health. Adult respiratory health is, at least in part, determined by exposures and respiratory system development in childhood, starting in utero. AREAS COVERED This narrative review will discuss, from a global perspective, what contributes to poor IAQ in the child's home and school environment and the impact that indoor air pollution exposure has on respiratory health throughout the different stages of childhood. EXPERT OPINION All children have the right to a living and educational environment without the threat of pollution affecting their health. Action is needed at multiple levels to address this pressing issue to improve lifelong respiratory health. Such action should incorporate a child's rights-based approach, empowering children, and their families, to have access to clean air to breathe in their living environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared Murphy
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Karl A Holden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Lab to Life Child Health Data Centre, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Charlotte King
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alice R Lee
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Lab to Life Child Health Data Centre, Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Katie Rose
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Daniel B Hawcutt
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- NIHR Alder Hey Clinical Research Facility, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ian P Sinha
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
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Zhang B, Xia Z, Jiang X, Yuan Y, Yin C, Chen T. Indoor environment in relation to recurrent childhood asthma in Yancheng, China: a hospital-based case-control study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:102212-102221. [PMID: 37665446 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29631-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
This investigation explored the association between indoor environmental factors and childhood asthma in Yancheng, China. Asthma case (201 children with recurrent asthma) and control cohorts (242 healthy subjects) were recruited from a Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) Hospital in Yancheng city, based on the results of an ISAAC questionnaire. Questionnaires regarding environmental risk factors were completed by the child's primary caregivers. To compare data on environmental VOCs and formaldehyde contents between asthma and control cohorts, we passively conducted a 10-day indoor and outdoor sampling. Breastfeeding was a major protective indoor environmental factor for recurrent asthma (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.368, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.216-0.627). Our analysis revealed that childhood recurrent asthma was intricately linked to a family history of asthma. Recurrent asthma was also associated with passive smoking [aOR2.115 (95%-CI 1.275-3.508)]. Analogous correlations were observed between household renovation or new furniture introduction and recurrent asthma [aOR3.129(95%-CI1.542-6.347)]. Benzene and formaldehyde were present in all examined homes. Enhanced benzene and formaldehyde concentrations were strongly evident among asthma versus control cohorts, and they were strongly correlated with augmented recurrent asthma risk. Home environment heavily regulates incidences of childhood recurrent asthma. Hence, actions against the indoor environmental risk factors described in this study may assist in the prevention of recurrent asthma among children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoping Zhang
- Yancheng Institute of Technology, P.O. Box No. 211 Jianjun Road, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhibin Xia
- Yancheng Institute of Technology, P.O. Box No. 211 Jianjun Road, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xu Jiang
- Yancheng Institute of Technology, P.O. Box No. 211 Jianjun Road, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Environmental Protection Equipment, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yang Yuan
- Yancheng Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yancheng, 224001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuntao Yin
- Jiangsu Huanghai Ecological Environment Detection CO., Ltd., Jiangsu, 224008, China
| | - Tianming Chen
- Yancheng Institute of Technology, P.O. Box No. 211 Jianjun Road, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China.
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Environmental Protection Equipment, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Yao J, Shi H, Lu J, Wang X, Xie D, Wang X, Wan G, Li F, Wang T. Prevalence and indoor environment risk factors of otitis among preschool children in Urumqi, China. J Pediatr (Rio J) 2023; 99:362-370. [PMID: 36716790 PMCID: PMC10373138 DOI: 10.1016/j.jped.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the indoor environmental risk factors to provide measures for the prevention and control of otitis in preschool children. METHOD In this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire survey was administered to preschool children aged 2-7 years from 60 kindergartens in six districts of Urumqi City in August 2019. Multiple regression was run to predict influence factors for otitis media in preschool children. RESULT A total of 8153 valid questionnaires were collected. After adjusting for age, the prevalence of otitis among preschool children in Urumqi was 13.1%. Multivariate logistic regression showed that previous antibiotic treatment, treatment with one to two antibiotics before 1 year of age, presence of walls with aqueous or latex paint, use of carpet floor bedding in rooms, newly decorated homes of mothers before pregnancy, purchase of new furniture for homes of children at 0-1 year of age, and presence of flowering plants in the residence of children at 0-1 years of age were all identified as risk factors for the development of otitis in children. CONCLUSION Parents should also pay attention to indoor living environments, and reduce indoor renovation in the homes of children during their growth and development, which can positively improve children's indoor living environment, thus effectively preventing otitis in preschool children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Yao
- Xinjiang Medical University, School of Public Health, Urumqi, China.
| | - Haonan Shi
- Xinjiang Medical University, School of Public Health, Urumqi, China.
| | - Junwen Lu
- Xinjiang Medical University, School of Public Health, Urumqi, China.
| | - Xiaolan Wang
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, School of Nursing & Health Management, Shanghai, China.
| | - Daming Xie
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, School of Nursing & Health Management, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiaowei Wang
- Zhoupu Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Department of Operation and Security, Shanghai, China.
| | - Guangsheng Wan
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, School of Nursing & Health Management, Shanghai, China.
| | - Fuye Li
- Xinjiang Medical University, School of Public Health, Urumqi, China.
| | - Tingting Wang
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, School of Nursing & Health Management, Shanghai, China.
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Ding E, Zhang D, Hamida A, García-Sánchez C, Jonker L, de Boer AR, Bruijning PCJL, Linde KJ, Wouters IM, Bluyssen PM. Ventilation and thermal conditions in secondary schools in the Netherlands: Effects of COVID-19 pandemic control and prevention measures. BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT 2023; 229:109922. [PMID: 36575741 PMCID: PMC9779948 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2022.109922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of ventilation was widely stressed and new protocols of ventilation were implemented in school buildings worldwide. In the Netherlands, schools were recommended to keep the windows and doors open, and after a national lockdown more stringent measures such as reduction of occupancy were introduced. In this study, the actual effects of such measures on ventilation and thermal conditions were investigated in 31 classrooms of 11 Dutch secondary schools, by monitoring the indoor and outdoor CO2 concentration and air temperature, both before and after the lockdown. Ventilation rates were calculated using the steady-state method. Pre-lockdown, with an average occupancy of 17 students, in 42% of the classrooms the CO2 concentration exceeded the upper limit of the Dutch national guidelines (800 ppm above outdoors), while 13% had a ventilation rate per person (VRp) lower than the minimum requirement (6 l/s/p). Post-lockdown, the indoor CO2 concentration decreased significantly while for ventilation rates significant increase was only found in VRp, mainly caused by the decrease in occupancy (average 10 students). The total ventilation rate per classrooms, mainly induced by opening windows and doors, did not change significantly. Meanwhile, according to the Dutch national guidelines, thermal conditions in the classrooms were not satisfying, both pre- and post-lockdown. While opening windows and doors cannot achieve the required indoor environmental quality at all times, reducing occupancy might not be feasible for immediate implementation. Hence, more controllable and flexible ways for improving indoor air quality and thermal comfort in classrooms are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Er Ding
- Chair Indoor Environment, Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Dadi Zhang
- Chair Indoor Environment, Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Amneh Hamida
- Chair Indoor Environment, Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Clara García-Sánchez
- 3D Geoinformation Research Group, Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Lotte Jonker
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Annemarijn R de Boer
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Patricia C J L Bruijning
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Kimberly J Linde
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Inge M Wouters
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Philomena M Bluyssen
- Chair Indoor Environment, Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
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Lam J, Koustas E, Sutton P, Padula AM, Cabana MD, Vesterinen H, Griffiths C, Dickie M, Daniels N, Whitaker E, Woodruff TJ. Exposure to formaldehyde and asthma outcomes: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and economic assessment. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248258. [PMID: 33788856 PMCID: PMC8011796 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Every major federal regulation in the United States requires an economic analysis estimating its benefits and costs. Benefit-cost analyses related to regulations on formaldehyde exposure have not included asthma in part due to lack of clarity in the strength of the evidence. OBJECTIVES 1) To conduct a systematic review of evidence regarding human exposure to formaldehyde and diagnosis, signs, symptoms, exacerbations, or other measures of asthma in humans; and 2) quantify the annual economic benefit for decreases in formaldehyde exposure. METHODS We developed and registered a protocol in PROSPERO (Record ID #38766, CRD 42016038766). We conducted a comprehensive search of articles published up to April 1, 2020. We evaluated potential risk of bias for included studies, identified a subset of studies to combine in a meta-analysis, and rated the overall quality and strength of the evidence. We quantified economics benefit to children from a decrease in formaldehyde exposure using assumptions consistent with EPA's proposed formaldehyde rule. RESULTS We screened 4,821 total references and identified 150 human studies that met inclusion criteria; of these, we focused on 90 studies reporting asthma status of all participants with quantified measures of formaldehyde directly relevant to our study question. Ten studies were combinable in a meta-analysis for childhood asthma diagnosis and five combinable for exacerbation of childhood asthma (wheezing and shortness of breath). Studies had low to probably-low risk of bias across most domains. A 10-μg/m3 increase in formaldehyde exposure was associated with increased childhood asthma diagnosis (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: [1.02, 1.41]). We also found a positive association with exacerbation of childhood asthma (OR = 1.08, 95% CI: [0.92, 1.28]). The overall quality and strength of the evidence was rated as "moderate" quality and "sufficient" for asthma diagnosis and asthma symptom exacerbation in both children and adults. We estimated that EPA's proposed rule on pressed wood products would result in 2,805 fewer asthma cases and total economic benefit of $210 million annually. CONCLUSION We concluded there was "sufficient evidence of toxicity" for associations between exposure to formaldehyde and asthma diagnosis and asthma symptoms in both children and adults. Our research documented that when exposures are ubiquitous, excluding health outcomes from benefit-cost analysis can underestimate the true benefits to health from environmental regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juleen Lam
- University of California San Francisco, Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- Department of Health Sciences, California State University, East Bay, Hayward, California, United States of America
| | - Erica Koustas
- Scientific Consultant to the University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Patrice Sutton
- University of California San Francisco, Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Amy M. Padula
- University of California San Francisco, Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Michael D. Cabana
- University of California San Francisco, Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, San Francisco, California, United States of America
- University of California San Francisco, Schools of Medicine and Pharmacy, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Hanna Vesterinen
- Scientific Consultant to the University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Charles Griffiths
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Center for Environmental Economics, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Mark Dickie
- Department of Economics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, United States of America
| | - Natalyn Daniels
- University of California San Francisco, Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Evans Whitaker
- University of California San Francisco, Schools of Medicine and Pharmacy, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Tracey J. Woodruff
- University of California San Francisco, Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment, San Francisco, California, United States of America
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Paciência I, Cavaleiro Rufo J, Mendes F, Farraia M, Cunha P, Silva D, Delgado L, Padrão P, Moreira P, Moreira A. A cross-sectional study of the impact of school neighbourhood on children obesity and body composition. Eur J Pediatr 2021; 180:535-545. [PMID: 32910211 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-020-03798-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Schools' neighbourhoods provide an important environmental context that may influence the risk of obesity among children. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of neighbourhood surrounding schools on obesity and body composition in schoolchildren. Data on 845 children aged 7 to 12 years old from 20 primary schools were considered. Anthropometric measurements and bioelectrical impedance analysis were performed to assess body mass index (BMI) and characterize body composition. Land use characteristics were quantified within a 500-m buffer zone around schools. Mixed-effect models measured the effects of school neighbourhood on obesity and body composition. The results showed a tendency between green urban areas around schools and lower values of BMI and better body composition parameters compared with built areas, being BMI z-scores CDC, and body fat percentage significantly higher in-built than in green urban areas (β = 0.48, 95% CI 0.05; 0.90, and β = 2.56, 95% CI 0.39; 4.73, respectively).Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the school neighbourhood has an effect on BMI and body fat percentage in schoolchildren. These results may contribute to the creation of healthier cities and help reduce health expenses by focusing on prevention programmes towards the expansion of green spaces. What is Known: • Living in greener areas has been associated with healthy weight outcomes and to the lower impact of obesogenic urban environments. • The school environment may be especially important for youth health outcomes. What is New: • Neighbourhoods around schools may affect child health, specifically the development of obesity. • The presence of urban green areas around school may promote a framework of lifestyle or behaviours conducive to achieving a healthy weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Paciência
- Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina, da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal.
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | - João Cavaleiro Rufo
- Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina, da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisca Mendes
- Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina, da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Farraia
- Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina, da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Cunha
- Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação, da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Diana Silva
- Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina, da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Delgado
- Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina, da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Padrão
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação, da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Moreira
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação, da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - André Moreira
- Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina, da Universidade do Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação, da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
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de Castro Mendes F, Paciência I, Cavaleiro Rufo J, Silva D, Cunha P, Farraia M, Delgado L, Garcia-Larsen V, Severo M, Moreira A, Moreira P. The inflammatory potential of diet impacts the association between air pollution and childhood asthma. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2020; 31:290-296. [PMID: 31816137 DOI: 10.1111/pai.13185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhalation of fine particulate matter (PM) can cause systematic inflammation and oxidative stress, which may further aggravate the development and progression of asthma. Although nutritional intake of fatty acids and antioxidants may attenuate some effects of fine PM, the role of the inflammatory potential of diet has not been addressed. Therefore, we aimed to investigate possible modulatory effects of dietary inflammatory potential on the association between indoor air pollution and childhood asthma-related outcomes. METHODS In a sample of 501 children (48.1% females, aged 7-12 years) from 20 public schools located in Porto, Portugal, we evaluated airway reversibility, exhaled nitric oxide levels, atopy, and current respiratory symptoms. Dietary inflammatory index was calculated based on information collected through a reported 24-hour recall questionnaire, and participants were categorized as having an anti-inflammatory or pro-inflammatory diet. Concentrations of indoor PM2.5 and PM10 were measured to assess indoor air quality. Generalized linear mixed models were used to investigate the proportion of effects explained by the exposure to PM2.5 and PM10. RESULTS After adjustment, the exposure effect of PM2.5 and PM10 levels on children with asthma was higher for those having a pro-inflammatory diet (OR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.01-2.21; and OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.03-1.68, respectively) compared to those having an anti-inflammatory diet. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that the quality of diet might affect the association between indoor pollution and asthma in children, highlighting the relevance of children's diet as a potential protective factor to pollutant exposure in childhood asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca de Castro Mendes
- The Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,The EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Paciência
- The Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,The EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,The Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Management (INEGI), Porto, Portugal
| | - João Cavaleiro Rufo
- The EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Diana Silva
- The Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,The Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Cunha
- The Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Farraia
- The EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Delgado
- The Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,The Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vanessa Garcia-Larsen
- The Program in Human Nutrition, Department of International Health, The Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Milton Severo
- The EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,The Departamento de Epidemiologia Clínica, Medicina Preditiva e Saúde Pública da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - André Moreira
- The Serviço de Imunologia Básica e Clínica, Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,The EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,The Serviço de Imunoalergologia, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal.,The Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Moreira
- The EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,The Faculdade de Ciências da Nutrição e Alimentação da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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8
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Gabriel MF, Felgueiras F, Fernandes M, Ribeiro C, Ramos E, Mourão Z, de Oliveira Fernandes E. Assessment of indoor air conditions in households of Portuguese families with newborn children. Implementation of the HEALS IAQ checklist. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 182:108966. [PMID: 31816588 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Conducting epidemiological and risk assessment research that considers the exposome concept, as in the case of HEALS project, requires the acquisition of higher dimension data sets of an increased complexity. In this context, new methods that provide accurate and interpretable data summary on relevant environmental factors are of major importance. In this work, a questionnaire was developed to collect harmonized data on potential pollutant sources to air in the indoor environment where children spend an important part of their early life. The questionnaire was designed in a user friendly checklist format to be filled out at the maternity in ten European cities. This paper presents and discusses the rationale for the selection of the questionnaire contents and the results obtained from its application in the households of 309 HEALS-enrolled families with babies recently born in Porto, Portugal. The tool was very effective in providing data on the putative air pollution sources in homes, with special focus on the bedroom of the newborns. The data collected is part of a wider effort to build the databases and risk assessment models of the HEALS project. The results of the analysis of the collected data suggest that, for the population under study, the main concerns on early life exposures at home can be related to emissions from the use of household solid fuels, indoor tobacco, household cleaning products, fragranced consumer products (e.g. air fresheners, incense and candles), moisture-related pathologies and traffic-related outdoor pollution. Furthermore, it is anticipated that the tool can be a valuable means to empower citizens to actively participate in the control of their own exposures at home. Within this context, the application of the checklist will also allow local stakeholders to identify buildings presenting most evident IAQ problems for sampling or intervention as well as to guide them in preparing evidence-based educational/awareness campaigns to promote public health through creating healthy households.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta F Gabriel
- INEGI, Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Fátima Felgueiras
- INEGI, Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Porto, Portugal
| | - Miguel Fernandes
- INEGI, Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Porto, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Ribeiro
- EPIUnit Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Portugal; Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Predictive Medicine and Public Health, University of Porto Medical School, Porto, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Ramos
- EPIUnit Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Portugal; Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Predictive Medicine and Public Health, University of Porto Medical School, Porto, Portugal
| | - Zenaida Mourão
- INEGI, Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Porto, Portugal
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Sbihi H, Boutin RCT, Cutler C, Suen M, Finlay BB, Turvey SE. Thinking bigger: How early-life environmental exposures shape the gut microbiome and influence the development of asthma and allergic disease. Allergy 2019; 74:2103-2115. [PMID: 30964945 DOI: 10.1111/all.13812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Imbalance, or dysbiosis, of the gut microbiome of infants has been linked to an increased risk of asthma and allergic diseases. Most studies to date have provided a wealth of data showing correlations between early-life risk factors for disease and changes in the structure of the gut microbiome that disrupt normal immunoregulation. These studies have typically focused on one specific risk factor, such as mode of delivery or early-life antibiotic use. Such "micro-level" exposures have a considerable impact on affected individuals but not necessarily the whole population. In this review, we place these mechanisms under a larger lens that takes into account the influence of upstream "macro-level" environmental factors such as air pollution and the built environment. While these exposures likely have a smaller impact on the microbiome at an individual level, their ubiquitous nature confers them with a large influence at the population level. We focus on features of the indoor and outdoor human-made environment, their microbiomes and the research challenges inherent in integrating the built environment microbiomes with the early-life gut microbiome. We argue that an exposome perspective integrating internal and external microbiomes with macro-level environmental factors can provide a more comprehensive framework to define how environmental exposures can shape the gut microbiome and influence the development of allergic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hind Sbihi
- Department of Pediatrics, British Columbia Children’s Hospital The University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Rozlyn CT. Boutin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Michael Smith Laboratories The University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Chelsea Cutler
- Department of Pediatrics, British Columbia Children’s Hospital The University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Mandy Suen
- Department of Pediatrics, British Columbia Children’s Hospital The University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - B. Brett Finlay
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Michael Smith Laboratories The University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Stuart E. Turvey
- Department of Pediatrics, British Columbia Children’s Hospital The University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
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10
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A Review of Airborne Particulate Matter Effects on Young Children’s Respiratory Symptoms and Diseases. ATMOSPHERE 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos9040150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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11
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Slezakova K, Oliveira M, Madureira J, Fernandes EDO, Delerue-Matos C, Morais S, Pereira MDC. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in Portuguese educational settings: a comparison between preschools and elementary schools. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2017; 80:630-640. [PMID: 28679081 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2017.1286931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine levels and risks due to inhalation exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in different educational settings, namely for 3- to 5- year-old and 6- to 10-year-old children. Eighteen PAH (16 priority designated by US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and dibenzo[a,l]pyrene and benzo[j]fluoranthene) were simultaneously collected in indoor and outdoor air at two Portuguese preschools (PS1-PS2) and five elementary schools (ES1-ES5) from March to May 2014. Indoor concentrations at PS and ES were significantly different, with total levels (∑PAHs) 0.721-15.9 ng/m3 at PS1-PS2 and 5.03-23.6 ng/m3 at ES1-ES5. The corresponding outdoor concentrations were, respectively, 1.22-32.7 ng/m3 and 2.6-31.5 ng/m3. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with 2-3 aromatic rings were predominantly emitted by indoor sources, while compounds with 4-6 aromatic rings were mainly generated by infiltration of ambient PAH pollution to indoors. Excess lifetime risks of lung cancer exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) designated guideline of 10-5 in both types of schools (15-42-fold at PS; 15-52-fold at ES). However, total (sum of indoor and outdoor exposure) incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCR) were below the USEPA level of 10-6 at all studied institutions and thus considered negligible. Finally, ILCR due to indoor exposure represented 60-75% and 70-85% of the total ILCR at PS and ES, respectively, thus indicating the need for development and implementation of indoor air quality guidelines in educations settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Slezakova
- a LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química , Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
- b REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto , Porto , Portugal
| | - Marta Oliveira
- a LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química , Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
- b REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto , Porto , Portugal
| | - Joana Madureira
- c Institute of Science and Innovation on Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Management , Porto , Portugal
| | | | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- b REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto , Porto , Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- b REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto , Porto , Portugal
| | - Maria do Carmo Pereira
- a LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química , Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
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12
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Oliveira M, Slezakova K, Delerue-Matos C, Pereira MDC, Morais S. Indoor air quality in preschools (3- to 5-year-old children) in the Northeast of Portugal during spring-summer season: pollutants and comfort parameters. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2017; 80:740-755. [PMID: 28569620 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2017.1286932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Indoor air quality at schools (elementary, primary) has been the subject of many studies; however, there are still relative few data regarding preschool (3- to 5-year-old children) environments. This investigation determined the concentrations of particulate matter (PM)2.5, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), formaldehyde, carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3) as well as the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature, and relative humidity (RH) in the indoor and outdoor air of two preschools situated in different geographical regions of Portugal. The indoor concentrations of TVOC, CO, O3, and CO2 were predominantly higher at the end of school day compared to early morning periods. The TVOC and CO2 concentrations were higher indoors than outdoors suggesting predominantly an indoor origin. Outdoor air infiltrations were the major contributing source of CO and O3 to indoor air in both preschools. The concentrations of all pollutants were within the limits defined by national regulations and international organizations, except for TVOC that exceeded 8-12-fold higher than the recommendation of 0.2 mg/m3 proposed by European Commission. The levels of CO2 were below the protective guideline of 2250 mg/m3 (Portuguese legislation); however, the observed ranges exceeded the Portuguese margin of tolerance (2925 mg/m3) at the end of school days, indicating the impact of occupancy rates particularly at one of the preschools. Regarding comfort parameters, temperature exerted a significant influence on O3 concentrations, while RH values were significantly correlated with TVOC levels in indoor air of preschools, particularly during the late afternoon periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Oliveira
- a REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto , Porto , Portugal
| | - Klara Slezakova
- a REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto , Porto , Portugal
- b LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química , Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- a REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto , Porto , Portugal
| | - Maria do Carmo Pereira
- b LEPABE, Departamento de Engenharia Química , Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
| | - Simone Morais
- a REQUIMTE-LAQV, Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto, Instituto Politécnico do Porto , Porto , Portugal
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13
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Horváth I, Barnes PJ, Loukides S, Sterk PJ, Högman M, Olin AC, Amann A, Antus B, Baraldi E, Bikov A, Boots AW, Bos LD, Brinkman P, Bucca C, Carpagnano GE, Corradi M, Cristescu S, de Jongste JC, Dinh-Xuan AT, Dompeling E, Fens N, Fowler S, Hohlfeld JM, Holz O, Jöbsis Q, Van De Kant K, Knobel HH, Kostikas K, Lehtimäki L, Lundberg J, Montuschi P, Van Muylem A, Pennazza G, Reinhold P, Ricciardolo FLM, Rosias P, Santonico M, van der Schee MP, van Schooten FJ, Spanevello A, Tonia T, Vink TJ. A European Respiratory Society technical standard: exhaled biomarkers in lung disease. Eur Respir J 2017; 49:49/4/1600965. [PMID: 28446552 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.00965-2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 375] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Breath tests cover the fraction of nitric oxide in expired gas (FeNO), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), variables in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) and other measurements. For EBC and for FeNO, official recommendations for standardised procedures are more than 10 years old and there is none for exhaled VOCs and particles. The aim of this document is to provide technical standards and recommendations for sample collection and analytic approaches and to highlight future research priorities in the field. For EBC and FeNO, new developments and advances in technology have been evaluated in the current document. This report is not intended to provide clinical guidance on disease diagnosis and management.Clinicians and researchers with expertise in exhaled biomarkers were invited to participate. Published studies regarding methodology of breath tests were selected, discussed and evaluated in a consensus-based manner by the Task Force members.Recommendations for standardisation of sampling, analysing and reporting of data and suggestions for research to cover gaps in the evidence have been created and summarised.Application of breath biomarker measurement in a standardised manner will provide comparable results, thereby facilitating the potential use of these biomarkers in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ildiko Horváth
- Dept of Pulmonology, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Peter J Barnes
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Peter J Sterk
- Dept of Respiratory Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marieann Högman
- Centre for Research & Development, Uppsala University/Gävleborg County Council, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Anna-Carin Olin
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy and University Hospital, Goteborg, Sweden
| | - Anton Amann
- Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Balazs Antus
- Dept of Pathophysiology, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Andras Bikov
- Dept of Pulmonology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Agnes W Boots
- Dept of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Lieuwe D Bos
- Intensive Care, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Brinkman
- Dept of Respiratory Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Caterina Bucca
- Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Universita' di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | | | | | - Simona Cristescu
- Dept of Molecular and Laser Physics, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Johan C de Jongste
- Dept of Pediatrics/Respiratory Medicine, Erasmus MC-Sophia Childrens' Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Edward Dompeling
- Dept of Paediatrics/Family Medicine Research School CAPHRI, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Niki Fens
- Dept of Respiratory Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stephen Fowler
- Respiratory Research Group, University of Manchester Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Jens M Hohlfeld
- Clinical Airway Research, Fraunhofer Institute of Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), Hannover, Germany.,Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Olaf Holz
- Clinical Airway Research, Fraunhofer Institute of Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), Hannover, Germany
| | - Quirijn Jöbsis
- Department of Paediatric Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kim Van De Kant
- Dept of Paediatrics/Family Medicine Research School CAPHRI, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Hugo H Knobel
- Philips Research, High Tech Campus 11, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Jon Lundberg
- Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paolo Montuschi
- Pharmacology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Alain Van Muylem
- Hopital Erasme Cliniques Universitaires de Bruxelles, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Giorgio Pennazza
- Faculty of Engineering, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Petra Reinhold
- Institute of Molecular Pathogenesis, Friedrich Loeffler Institut, Jena, Germany
| | - Fabio L M Ricciardolo
- Clinic of Respiratory Disease, Dept of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Philippe Rosias
- Dept of Paediatrics/Family Medicine Research School CAPHRI, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Dept of Pediatrics, Maasland Hospital, Sittard, The Netherlands
| | - Marco Santonico
- Faculty of Engineering, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - Marc P van der Schee
- Dept of Respiratory Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Thomy Tonia
- European Respiratory Society, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Teunis J Vink
- Philips Research, High Tech Campus 11, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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14
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Madureira J, Paciência I, Cavaleiro-Rufo J, de Oliveira Fernandes E. Indoor pollutant exposure among children with and without asthma in Porto, Portugal, during the cold season. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:20539-20552. [PMID: 27464657 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-7269-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Considering the time spent in enclosed spaces, indoor air pollutants are of major interest because of its possible impact on health. However, to date, few studies have analysed the air concentrations of a large set of indoor pollutants of respiratory health relevance in dwellings, particularly in Portugal. This study aimed to measure the concentrations of air pollutants that are present in residential buildings and to investigate whether some clustering pattern of indoor air pollutants exists in the dwellings of children with (case group) and without asthma (control group). Measurements were taken in 30 and 38 dwellings of asthmatic and non-asthmatic schoolchildren, respectively, located in the city of Porto, Portugal, during the cold season (October 2012-April 2013), to assess the concentrations of 12 volatile organic compounds (VOC), aldehydes, PM2.5, PM10, bacteria and fungi. Toluene, d-limonene, formaldehyde, PM2.5, bacteria and fungi are widely present in dwellings, sometimes in relatively high concentrations in reference to WHO guideline values. Moreover, concentrations of CO2 exceeding 1000 ppm were often encountered, indicating that 70 % of all dwellings had poor ventilation (<4 L/s person). While exposures to common dwelling indoor pollutants are similar for schoolchildren with and without asthma, except for d-limonene levels, the identification and control of VOC and PM sources is important and prudent, especially for vulnerable individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Madureira
- Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Inês Paciência
- Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of University of Porto and Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Cavaleiro-Rufo
- Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine of University of Porto and Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
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15
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Madureira J, Paciência I, Cavaleiro-Rufo J, Fernandes EDO. Indoor air risk factors for schoolchildren's health in Portuguese homes: Results from a case-control survey. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2016; 79:938-953. [PMID: 27644344 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1210548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Allergic diseases have been on the rise in many countries over the past few decades and indoor exposure may be a possible cause. An overall investigation of children's health status and residential indoor air pollutants known or suspected to affect respiratory health was conducted in the homes of primary schoolchildren during winter in Porto, Portugal. In a case-control study (30 case children with asthma and 38 controls) and over a 1-wk monitoring period, air sample collection was conducted in children's bedrooms for the analysis of 12 volatile organic compounds (VOC), aldehydes, particulate matter (PM)2.5, PM10, bacteria, and fungi. Home exposures to indoor pollutants are similar for children with and without asthma, except for d-limonene. For both groups, most VOC were present at low concentrations (median < 5 µg/m(3)) and below the respective World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, and bacteria were frequently higher than WHO/reference values (80, 25, and 60% of all studied dwellings, respectively). Concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) exceeding 1000 ppm were encountered in 60% of the homes. Although this study does not provide evidence of causative factors for asthmatic status, the postulation that poor indoor air quality in homes heightens the risk of allergic symptoms development among children is conceivable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Madureira
- a Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering , Porto , Portugal
| | - Inês Paciência
- a Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering , Porto , Portugal
- b Faculty of Medicine , University of Porto, Porto, Portugal & Centro Hospitalar São João , Porto , Portugal
| | - João Cavaleiro-Rufo
- a Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering , Porto , Portugal
- b Faculty of Medicine , University of Porto, Porto, Portugal & Centro Hospitalar São João , Porto , Portugal
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16
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Ferraz ERA, Rainho CR, Fernandes AS, Felzenszwalb I. Differential toxicity of an organic PM2.5 extract to human lung cells cultured in three dimensions (3D) and monolayers. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2016; 79:221-231. [PMID: 26932779 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2016.1143902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Several epidemiological studies have associated PM2.5 (particulate matter, aerodynamic diameter 2.5 µm) exposure with an increase in morbidity and mortality attributed to cardiopulmonary diseases. Based upon these observations and the growing effort to replace the use of animals in research, in vitro A549 cells cultured in three dimensions (3D), an alternative method to the use of animals, as well as monolayers were investigated to examine whether organic PM2.5 extract induced equivalent cytotoxic changes in vitro as compared to in vivo. PM2.5 was collected on Brazil Avenue, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from November 2010 to May 2011, except March, and analyzed for the ability to induce cytotoxicity in A549 cells using various established assays. Samples collected in all months significantly decreased viability of A549 cells using both types of cell death assays, and those collected in November showed lower cytotoxicity. It is worthwhile noting that for samples collected in all months except for April, PM2.5 induced greater toxicity in cells grown in monolayers than in 3D. Data demonstrated that cell behavior varied based upon type of culture system employed. Since the 3D cell culture mimics the architecture of in vivo tissue to a greater extent than monolayers, it is suggested that data from 3D studies resemble more closely human exposure conditions and thus may provide more reliable findings to be utilized in risk assessment following PM exposure than results obtained in traditional culture system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Raquel A Ferraz
- a Laboratory of Environmental Mutagenesis, Department of Biophysics and Biometry , University of the State of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
- b School of Pharmacy, Fluminense Federal University , Niteroi , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Claudia R Rainho
- a Laboratory of Environmental Mutagenesis, Department of Biophysics and Biometry , University of the State of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Andreia S Fernandes
- a Laboratory of Environmental Mutagenesis, Department of Biophysics and Biometry , University of the State of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
| | - Israel Felzenszwalb
- a Laboratory of Environmental Mutagenesis, Department of Biophysics and Biometry , University of the State of Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil
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Paciência I, Madureira J, Rufo J, Moreira A, Fernandes EDO. A systematic review of evidence and implications of spatial and seasonal variations of volatile organic compounds (VOC) in indoor human environments. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2016; 19:47-64. [PMID: 27163962 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2015.1134371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Many volatile organic compounds (VOC) are classified as known or possible human carcinogens, irritants, and toxicants, and VOC exposure has been associated with asthma and other respiratory symptoms/diseases. This review summarizes recent quantitative data regarding VOC in four categories of indoor environments (schools, housing, offices, and other indoor) and compares the types and concentration levels of individual VOC that were detected, measured, and reported according to season (cold and warm). The influence of outdoor air on concentrations of indoor VOC was also assessed as ratios of indoor versus outdoor. Papers published from 2000 onward were reviewed and 1383 potentially relevant studies were identified. From these, 177 were removed after duplication, 1176 were excluded for not meeting the review criteria, and 40 were included in this review. On average, higher mean concentrations of indoor VOC were found in housing environments, in offices, and in the cold season. Volatile organic compounds are commonly present in indoor air and specific compounds, and their concentrations vary among indoor environments and seasons, indicating corresponding differences in sources (indoors and outdoors). Actions and policies to reduce VOC exposures, such as improved product labeling and consumer education, are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Paciência
- a Institute of Science and Innovation on Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Management , Porto , Portugal
- b Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto , Porto , Portugal
- c Portugal & Centro Hospitalar São João , Porto , Portugal
| | - Joana Madureira
- a Institute of Science and Innovation on Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Management , Porto , Portugal
| | - João Rufo
- a Institute of Science and Innovation on Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Management , Porto , Portugal
- b Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto , Porto , Portugal
- c Portugal & Centro Hospitalar São João , Porto , Portugal
| | - André Moreira
- b Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto , Porto , Portugal
- c Portugal & Centro Hospitalar São João , Porto , Portugal
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