A Scoping Review of the Relationship between Air Pollution and Respiratory Infections in South Asian Urban Slums

Presenter

Gwyneth Amonte

Group Members

Sarah Yi, Katie C. Magee

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Krishna Poudel, Department of Health Promotion and Policy, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 4, 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C30, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 3 (C21-C30) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

Background: Respiratory infections (RIs) are a critical global health issue and a leading cause of morbidity among children. Air pollution is a known risk factor for development and exacerbation. However, RI cases are increasing in areas with high pollution. We reviewed the literature on the prevalence of air pollution in urban slums and its effect on respiratory illnesses in individuals under 18.

Methods: We searched PubMed for studies published post-2000 and analyzed all references. We included studies that provide estimates specific to 0 to 18-year-olds living in South Asian urban slums on either (a) air pollution prevalence; or (b) the association between air pollution and cases of RIs. 

Results: Ten publications met the inclusion criteria: six cross-sectional and four case-control studies. Studies reported 1.35 to 2.0 times higher rates of RIs among young people in South Asian cities, where air pollution is 3 to 10 times worse than in rural areas. Six studies showed that exposure to air pollution increases the likelihood of RIs, as do other risk factors, including age, sex, poverty, and location.  

Conclusions: Few studies have examined air pollution and its link with RIs among young people in South Asian cities. Published studies are largely cross-sectional and case-control, focusing on indoor and outdoor air pollutants. Despite such limitations, the literature shows increased rates of RIs among those living in cities with poor air quality. Our findings suggest the need for longitudinal studies as well as interventions to prevent air pollution to reduce the RIs among young people in South Asian urban areas. 

Keywords

South Asia, Children, Air Pollution, Respiratory Illness, Urban

Research Area

Public Health and Epidemiology

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