Seasonality and Air Quality Effect in Health

Abstract:- The air pollution effect on respiratory system is a complex issue. Environmental factors, such as air pollution and meteorological conditions, are possible causes or can trigger off symptoms in people already with the disease. The purpose of the study is to investigate seasonality and air pollution effects on a children population who attend Barreiro city hospital emergency room (ER), Portugal. The method used consists in statistical work. Children related data were crossed with wind speed and direction, temperature and outdoor pollutants concentration (carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur dioxide (SO2), particle matter (PM) and ozone (O3)). A numerical model was used to predict outdoor air pollutants dispersion in the city, to verify the most affected areas. CO and NOx were positive correlated to the emergencies attendance, as well as humidity. Temperature was negatively correlated. Winter was the worst season regarding the raise of emergencies attendance and some air pollutants concentration. Considering the results, and taking into account that CO is an important pollutant from fireplaces, one possible explanation to this positive correlation is the fact that children spend more time indoor near these sources, in winter. Key-Words:- Seasonality, Children respiratory problems, Urban air quality