Traffic related air pollution and respiratory morbidity

Exposure to high levels of air pollution from motor vehicles is frequently associated with increased morbidity from cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer and respiratory diseases, such as bronchitis and respiratory tract infections.[1] Moreover, it appears that the traffic fumes could play a critical role in the induction of allergic conditions. The incidence of allergic diseases has increased over recent years in most industrialized countries.[2] Several epidemiological studies showed an association between exposure to motor vehicle traffic emission and allergic symptoms and reduced lung function.[3] Exposure to air pollutants enhances airway response to inhaled allergens in susceptible subjects.

Several pollutants (NO₂, O₃, and PM components) are linked to asthma exacerbation and may contribute to asthma pathogenesis. In most of the industrialised countries, people who live in urban areas tend to be more affected by allergic respiratory diseases than those in rural areas.[4,5]

Regarding health effects, the most important traffic-related air pollutant is particulate matter; exhaust from motor vehicle traffic is considered as contributing to more than 50% of ambient particulate matter with a mass median aerodynamic diameter less than 10 micron, known as PM10. In addition, other toxic compounds, such as NO₂, CO and benzene have to be taken into consideration.[6,7]

Epidemiological studies indicate an increased risk for lung cancer in urban residents compared to a rural population.[8] Among urban citizens, the highest exposure to airborne pollutants is experienced by outdoor workers, such as policemen, who are considered a high-risk group. Previous studies suggest an increased prevalence of respiratory and cardiovascular disease, as well as an excess of cytogenetic alterations and DNA adducts in white blood cells of traffic police workers. A recent study showed that traffic policeman exposed to air pollution presented airway neutrophilic inflammation.[9]

On this basis, the study “Respiratory effects of air pollutants among non-smoking traffic policemen of Patiala, India”,[10] is most important because it provides data from a developing country where there are high traffic conditions related to motor vehicles. Given the results of the spirometric study in Patiala, it will be important to introduce allergic status evaluation in traffic policemen of Patiala. In addition, according to the suggestion of the Authors, to reduce the occupational exposure to pollutans, it will also be important to use personal protective equipment for these workers in accordance with the provisions of European law.