Lung function among residents from the largest coal region in Brazil

Coal mining and burning activities in coal-fired power plants are among the most polluting activities in developing countries. In Brazil, the Candiota coal deposit concentrates 40% of the national mineral coal. Although, previous studies indicate several negative health outcomes to residents of this coal region, there is no information about lung function. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate lung function by spirometry among residents from the largest coal mining region of Brazil and its related factors. It was carried out a cross-sectional study with 300 male adults residing in four cities from this region. Socioeconomic, demographic, life style, and health conditions were collected through a structured questionnaire, and lung function was assessed by spirometry. Almost 18% of the residents have disorders in pulmonary function. There was significant statistical difference in the spirometry main parameters between the cities. Candiota city (host city of coal exploration activities) have the highest prevalence of obstructive ventilatory disorder. Curiously, upper economic class had significant higher risk of altered lung function (P<0.001), as well as inappropriate sewage destination (P<0.001). Residents of Candiota city had 20% higher risk of altered lung function. Regarding air quality, the PM₁₀, SO₂, and NO₂ of the region were 20.6± 3.9, 7.0± 2.2, and 6.0± 1.6, respectively. Two air quality stations exceed the limit of 20 μg/m³ to PM₁₀ proposed by Brazilian legislation and WHO, and three stations had PM₁₀ quite close to the limit. This study points out the need for urgent action to protect residents from this coal mining region.