Ambient air quality and the effects of air pollutants on otolaryngology in Beijing

Abstract

To investigate temporal patterns, pollution concentrations and the health effects of air pollutants in Beijing we carried out time-series analyses on daily concentrations of ambient air pollutants and daily numbers of outpatient visits for otolaryngology over 2 years (2011)(2012) to identify possible health effects of air pollutants. The results showed that PM 10 was the major air pollutant in Beijing and that air quality was slightly better in 2012 than in 2011. Seasonal differences were apparent for SO 2 and NO 2 . Both the background and urban areas of Beijing experienced particulate matter pollution in 2011. In addition to local air pollution, Beijing was also affected by pollutants transported from other regions, especially during heavy air pollution episodes. PM 10 , NO 2 , and SO 2 concentrations showed positive associations with numbers of outpatient visits for otolaryngology during winter. NO 2 and SO 2 also had adverse ear, nose, and throat health effects outside of winter. The ear, nose, and throat health risks caused by air pollutants were higher during the winter than during the summer. NO 2 had stronger influence on increased the likelihood of outpatient visits than SO 2 . The findings provide additional information about air quality and health effects of air pollution in Beijing.

The Effects of Air Pollutants on the Prevalence of Common Ear, Nose, and Throat Diseases in South Korea: A National Population-Based Study

“…One study conducted in Beijing found that the levels of PM 10 , NO 2 , and SO 2 were positively associated with the number of outpatient visits to otolaryngology departments during winter [6]. Although the study settings are different, and although we found no associations between NO 2 and SO 2 levels and disease, it is notable that PM 10 levels were closely associated with ENT disease in two Asian studies.…”

A comprehensive review of otorhinolaryngological global health concerns

“…36,37 Exposure to a combination of pollutants accelerates the onset of allergic rhinitis, particularly by inducing exacerbations. 33 These findings are consistent with conclusions made in numerous other studies. 36–38…”

“…A study in Beijing evaluated the influence of air pollution on otolaryngology out-patient attendance. 33 Nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide concentrations showed positive associations with out-patient attendance. 33 Exposure to air pollution early in life increases the risk of both upper and lower respiratory tract infections in children, including middle-ear infection.…”

“…33 Nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide concentrations showed positive associations with out-patient attendance. 33 Exposure to air pollution early in life increases the risk of both upper and lower respiratory tract infections in children, including middle-ear infection. 36,37 Exposure to a combination of pollutants accelerates the onset of allergic rhinitis, particularly by inducing exacerbations.…”

“…31 Nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide affect the upper airway and middle ear, causing inflammation, irritation and infection. 32,33 Higher levels of air pollution are associated with an increased incidence of head and neck cancer. 34,35…”