Lung Function Testing of School Children Living near Industrial Areas in Rayong, Thailand

摘要

Lung functions of children exposed to air pollutions around industrial areas in Rayong Thailand were tested. 806 elementary students aged 9-12 years performed Spirometric measurements during February-August 2013. Eight volunteer schools were selected based on the distance between schools and Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate (MTPIE). The study sites were divided into 3 groups: A - 4schools located within 1 kilometer from MTPIE, B - 2 schools located in 1-5 kilometers from MTPIE and C - 2 schools at 5-10 kilometers from MTPIE. The lung function impairments of subjects in group A, B and C were statistically analyzed by Binary Logistic Regression. According to the study, the low lung functions were found in group A with the distance near industrial sites, odds ratios (OR) = 1.66 (95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.06-2.62). Comparing the area B to that of C, the lung functions were found different but not significant, OR = 0.66, (95% CI = 0.34-1.29). Comparing the PM10 level to the reference group, children exposed to particulate matter PM10 < 37 μg/ m3, their lung function potentially reduced with OR = 1.77 (95% CI = 1.25-2.51). The impaired lung function in school children was associated with the level of air pollution and the distance from industrial sites.