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Personal exposure to fine particles, PM2.5, in the general population.
Several studies have shown an
association between mortality and levels of small particles in air.
Epidemiological evidence suggests that fine particles, PM2.5
or
smaller, are especially harmful. In short term experiments the airways of
asthmatic individuals were affected after exposure to high concentrations of PM2.5.
Measurements of particles in ambient air in Sweden are limited to a few
urban areas and almost exclusively soot or PM10. There is some
knowledge about personal exposure to PM2.5 in other countries but no
information about the situation in Sweden. In a European project, Expolis,
personal measurements of PM2.5, using cyclones (PEM), have been
performed. The agreement between personal measurements and stationary
measurements outside the homes of the individuals was poor. Studies on elderly
subjects in the US and Europe found better agreements.
Aim:
To assess personal exposure levels of PM2.5 (total mass and elements)
in individuals living in the Göteborg region. The variability and the
relationships with indoor, outdoor and urban background levels will also be
evaluated.
Methods:
24-hour measurements are performed on 40 subjects living in the Göteborg area.
Out of these 20 will be randomly selected and 20 will be other volunteers. In 10
individuals measurements are performed with two monitors for determination of
the precision. In 20 subjects repeated measurements are performed to evaluate
the variability in exposure between and within individuals, and for 20
individuals stationary measurements, inside and outside their homes, are also
included. Background information on residence, heating system, traffic,
workplace and smoking habits is collected, as well as activities during the 24
hours. Weighing of filters is performed in a special room with controlled
atmosphere. Indicator elements (e.g.sulfur) will be analyzed using
energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (ED-XRF) technique.
Preliminary results have shown
that the technique is feasible.
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