Ambient Air Pollution and Lung Function Among Children in 4 Cities in China (1993–1996)

PP-29-019 Background/Aims: Exposure to ambient air pollution has been associated with decreased lung function among children in many populations. However, few studies have explored the effect of ambient air pollution on lung function at higher exposure levels. The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between air pollution and lung function among children in China (1993–1996) in a prospective study. Methods: Children (n = 3512) aged 6–13 years were recruited from 8 schools in 4 cities in China. Lung function was measured using Computerized Collins Survey II spirometers 2 times a year for 4 years (1993–1996). Ambient air concentration of NOx, SO2 were obtained from the nearest municipal air pollution monitoring stations. Dichotomous samplers (model 241; Sierra-Anderson, Atlanta, GA) placed in each schoolyard were used to measure particulate matter (PM2.5) and PM2.5–10 levels. Multivariable generalized estimating equations, accounting for multilevel structure and longitudinal design of the study, were used to examine explore the association between the quarterly average air pollution levels and lung function (FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC). Results: Annual average PM2.5 levels in the 4 cities ranged from 57.07 to 158.09 μg/m3. Other pollutants were also higher than most reported studies and varied largely across the 4 cities. After accounting for age, sex, height, weight, time trend, an increase of 10 μg/m3 of PM2.5 was associated with a decrease in 1.41 mL of FEV1 (P < 0.05) for FEV, FVC, and FEV1-FVC ratio, indicating that each of the air pollutants significantly affect lung function growth rates. Conclusion: Exposure to ambient air pollution is associated with decreased lung function as well as decreased growth in lung function among Chinese children.