[Hypothetical health and economic benefits associated with a reduction in air pollution in a Chilean city (Talca)].

BACKGROUND Environmental air pollution is associated with a higher incidence of respiratory diseases, absenteeism and costs. AIM To model the health related economic benefits associated to a reduction in air pollution and the resulting lower prevalence of respiratory diseases, in a Chilean city. MATERIAL AND METHODS A time series model for year 2006 was elaborated. The dependent variable was the number of consultations for respiratory disease. The independent variables were air pollution expressed as particulate matter of 10 micrometers or less (PM₁₀), minimum and maximum environmental temperatures, environmental humidity and number of consultations for chronic diseases. RESULTS The variables that best explained the number of consultations for respiratory diseases were PM₁₀, minimal environmental temperatures and preexisting respiratory diseases. In a hypothetical scenery of a 67% reduction in PM₁₀, 69% of medical consultations for respiratory diseases would be avoided. This would result in a net saving of US$ 345,000 per year. CONCLUSIONS The reduction in PM₁₀ emissions would result in an important reduction in consultations for respiratory diseases and monetary savings.