The study examines the association between exposure to sub-micrometric Particulate Matter (PM1) and allergic response in a group of sensitive young children (age: 2-10 years) from Ploiesti city, Romania. The city is the only urban agglomeration in Europe surrounded by four oil refineries. A panel study was conducted by collecting medical information from children with respiratory illnesses and atopy (n = 135). Hot Spot Analysis revealed the areas of the city that are susceptible to high levels of PM1. We found a close interaction between exposure to PM1 outdoor concentrations and various physiological changes and clinical symptoms in children including triggering of allergic reactions, rhinitis, alteration of lung function, upper and lower respiratory tract symptoms, and bronchial asthma. During the 2-year study period, the incidence of hospitalizations was 40.7%. Strong correlations (p < 0.001) were observed between the PM1 exposure and hospitalizations, and exposure and Immunoglobulin E (IgE). PM1 exposure was also correlated with eosinophils (p < 0.05). Another positive correlation was observed between hospitalizations and IgE levels (p < 0.05). The mean results of tested indicators were as follows: wheezing (5.3, 95% CI (1.4-1.8); Coeff. of var. (CV) = 30%), IgE (382, 95% CI (349-445); CV = 102%), and EO% (5.3, 95% CI (3.3-4.2); CV = 69.5%). We can conclude that exposure to PM1 influenced the frequency of wheezing episodes, increased hospitalizations, and the levels of allergic blood indicators in children, especially in infants and pre-schoolers. CAPSULE: Exposure to sub-micrometric particles (PM1) influences the frequency of wheezing episodes, hospitalizations, and the levels of allergic blood indicators in children, especially in infants and pre-schoolers.
Keywords: Eosinophils; Health effects; Hot spot analysis; Immunoglobulin E; PM(1); Wheezing.
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