Higher exposure to air pollution may contribute to the increased prevalence of allergic
diseases in children. The study investigated the associations between the prevalence
of childhood respiratory diseases and long-term exposure to NO2, SO2, PM10, furthermore
some surrogates in schoolchildren in Hungary. We also analysed the possible modification
effects of some confounders by interaction analysis.A total of 6,771 children aged
8-9-year-old residing at their current addresses since their births with air pollution
monitoring stations were selected into this analysis. Health outcomes and their possible
determinants, as well as, surrogates of air pollution were surveyed by using a standardized
questionnaire. Long-term exposure to PM10, NO2, and SO2 was calculated at settlement
level derived from daily average concentrations of pollutants. Descriptive and analytical
statistical methods were applied.NO2 levels were positively associated with respiratory
allergies and asthma. Decreased risk for ragweed, any other pollen, house dust mite
and animal fur allergy was detected with PM10 level. There were significant associations
between respiratory allergies to ragweed, any other pollen, house dust mite, animal
fur, wheeze symptoms and living or attending school nearby a factory, power station
or bus station as well as living in a home with intensive noise or vibration. Gender,
parental atopy, home mold and early respiratory infection were significant effect
modifiers in some cases.The results of this study indicate that respiratory health
in children is adversely affected by air pollutants.
