Korean J Asthma Allergy Clin Immunol.  2004 Sep;24(3):324-330.

Changes of Lung Function and Symptoms of Asthmatics according to the Concentration of On-site Measured NO2

Abstract

BACKGROUND
It has been suggested that exposure to NO2 is associated with an increased incidence of respiratory illness and decreased lung function, although it still remain uncertain. There have been few studies that examine the effects of short-term personal NO2 exposure on symptoms and lung function on a daily basis in asthmatics.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to assess whether there is a relationship between personally measured NO2 level and the symptoms and lung function of asthmatics. METHOD: A cohort of 16 asthmatic patients recorded daily respiratory symptoms, peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and personal NO2 exposures were measured daily for a month. RESULT: The mean NO2 concentration was 47.2+/-28.0 ppb. Daily NO2 concentrations were not correlated with the first day evening PEFR and the second and the third day lag morning PEFR. The respiratory symptoms were not correlated with NO2 concentration levels. CONCLUSION: Short-term personal changes of low level NO2 may be not related with respiratory symptoms and lung function in asthmatics.

MeSH Terms

Air Pollution
Asthma
Cohort Studies
Humans
Incidence
Lung*
Peak Expiratory Flow Rate