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Environmental exposure to air pollution and allergens and peak flow changes
B G Higgins1, H C Francis, C Yates
1Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, UK.
The European Respiratory Journal
|August 10, 2000
Summary
Ozone exposure may worsen asthma symptoms by interacting with airborne allergens like spores. This study found that higher ozone levels amplified the negative effects of spore counts on lung function in individuals with asthma.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- Laboratory studies indicate ozone and nitrogen dioxide can enhance allergen effects in asthmatics.
- The relevance of these pollutant-allergen interactions under natural exposure conditions remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interaction between aeroallergens and air pollutants on lung function in individuals with asthma or COPD under natural conditions.
- To determine if ozone or nitrogen dioxide potentiate the effects of aeroallergens on peak expiratory flow (PEF).
Main Methods:
- Thirty-five subjects with asthma/COPD and bronchial hyperresponsiveness recorded PEF for 4 weeks.
- Concurrent measurements of pollen, spore counts, and air pollution levels (ozone, nitrogen dioxide) were taken.
- Multiple regression analysis was used to assess the impact of aeroallergens and pollutant interactions on PEF.
Main Results:
- A significant interaction was found between total spore count and ozone levels, but not nitrogen dioxide.
- Increased spore counts were associated with decreased mean PEF and increased PEF variability.
- These effects were more pronounced at higher preceding ozone concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Ozone appears to potentiate the effects of aeroallergens in individuals with bronchial hyperreactivity during natural exposure.
- The observed interaction suggests a potential environmental trigger for asthma exacerbations.
- The clinical significance of this ozone-allergen interaction warrants further investigation.