The relationship between particulate matter and childhood respiratory complaints and peak expiratory flows in harran agricultural area

BACKGROUND In recent years, many studies have evaluated the increasing incidence of asthma and chronic respiratory diseases among children living close to rural areas with pesticide application. Pesticide exposure in 266 (126 girls 140 boys) Sanliurfa, a cotton-producing province Turkey, was explored this work. Four different villages spread over 40 km2 were included. METHODS Measurements peak expiratory flow (PEF) conducted late June, before intensive applications fields. The measurements repeated for 72 after application August. PEF, particulate matter diameter less than 2.5 μm (PM ), 10 temperature, humidity, wind speed measured. RESULTS After application, mean PM values significantly increased compared (p between PEF < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Intensive causes dysfunction complaints near affected agricultural areas, impacts quality life adversely. results work can be used develop an early warning system methods prevent disorders residing study area.