Urinary Biomarkers and Respiratory Responses to Indoor and Traffic-Related Air Pollution in Urban Children: A Prospective Cohort Study
Abstract
COVID-19 lockdowns unintentionally improved air quality by reducing traffic and industrial activity. This study assessed changes in respiratory health and urinary biomarkers of air pollution exposure among children with no traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) exposure and TRAP re-exposure under COVID-19-related lockdowns. A prospective cohort study was conducted with 53 children from urban districts in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Two time measurements were taken: t0 (immediately post-lockdown, no TRAP exposure) and t1 (six months after TRAP re-exposure). The children underwent physical examinations, respiratory tests (spirometry, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO)), and urine collection for 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) analysis. Overall, thirty-five children were eligible for the analysis. FeNO and lung function parameters (SVC, FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC) showed significant changes after TRAP re-exposure. Following the return to normal daily activities after the COVID-19 pandemic, children exposed to passive smoking exhibited lower 1-OHP levels, which may be attributable to increased time spent outdoors. Significant increases in FeNO were observed in children exposed to passive smoke (p = 0.007), incense smoke (p = 0.003), and gas cooking (p = 0.003). The respiratory function values (SVC, FVC, and FEV1) of children underwent significant increases (p < 0.05) after the lockdown was eased and their exposure to indoor pollution was reduced while being…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cohort study, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 53 participants or records.
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