[Effects of traffic-induced emissions on the pediatric respiratory tract]

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between paediatric pulmonary function and air pollution. For this purpose, 511 primary schoolchildren (mean age 9 years) from areas with different emission data in Austria were submitted to pulmonary function testing every 2 months in the period 1987/1988. Emission data were provided for NO2, SO2, and O3 by permanent measuring stations for the whole of the period under observation. Statistical analysis using the Mantel-Henzel procedure revealed an independent significantly significant effect of NO2 concentration 2 to 6 hours before the function test on the prevalence of obstructive function.