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Nitrogen dioxide and respiratory illnesses in infants
J M Samet1, W E Lambert, B J Skipper
1Department of Medicine, University of New Mexico Medical Center, Albuquerque 87131.
The American Review of Respiratory Disease
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Residential exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) did not increase respiratory illnesses in infants. This study found no significant link between NO2 levels in homes and the incidence or severity of infant respiratory conditions.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Pediatric Respiratory Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a common air pollutant from gas appliances.
- Indoor NO2 exposure is a potential risk factor for infant respiratory illnesses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between residential nitrogen dioxide (NO2) exposure and the incidence and severity of respiratory illnesses in infants during their first 18 months of life.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cohort study of 1,205 healthy infants from non-smoking homes.
- Mothers reported respiratory symptoms and illnesses bi-weekly.
- Indoor NO2 concentrations were measured using passive samplers in bedrooms.
Main Results:
- No consistent increase in illness incidence was observed with higher NO2 exposure or specific stove types.
- Multivariate analyses, adjusting for confounders, showed no significantly elevated odds ratios for NO2 exposure.
- Illness duration, an indicator of severity, was not associated with NO2 exposure levels.
Conclusions:
- Residential exposure to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from gas stoves does not appear to increase the incidence or severity of respiratory illnesses in infants.
- Findings are applicable to homes with gas stoves in less polluted areas of the United States.