Published
2023-12-19
Metrics
Metrics Loading ...

Relationship between particulate matter, weather variables, and acute respiratory infections in the north zone of Ocaña

DOI: https://doi.org/10.22490/21456453.6537
Section
Área Ambiental

Categories

Alexander Armesto Arenas Univerisdad Francisco de Paula Santander
Julio Eduardo Cañon Barriga Universidad de Antioquia

Contextualization: This research focuses on public health and air quality in the northern residential zone of the city of Ocaña, affected by a national road with slow traffic that causes high emissions of particulate matter (PM10).

Knowledge gap: The research addresses the following concerns: How do PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations relate in the zone? Where does the dispersion of PM10 emitted by mobile sources occur? What are the impacts of PM dispersal in the northern neighborhoods? What age groups have been significantly impacted by Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs) due to climatic conditions and particulate matter?

Purpose: To analyze the correlation of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) with weather conditions and the degree of correspondence of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in the north zone of Ocaña, Colombia.

Methodology: Official information from 2018, 2019, and 2021 was used, including PM2.5 measurements using automated equipment. Variables related to ARIs were grouped by sex, age, and neighborhood, and they were related to particulate matter and meteorological conditions using multiple factor analysis (MFA) and linear regression models.

Results and conclusions: Results: The PM2.5/PM10 ratio is significant (Pearson r=0.812) and its concentrations are higher than allowed. PM10 had a significant correlation with wind, precipitation, and humidity (-0.51, -0.53, and -0.56). Women had more recorded cases of ARI than men, with a significant correlation (p<0.05) with PM10 and relative humidity, especially for ages one to four and over 60 years. Likewise, neighborhoods downwind and near the national road, showed higher cases of ARI and a greater significant correlation with PM10. In conclusion, PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations are significantly correlated with each other and influenced by climatic conditions in Ocaña. Their impacts on respiratory health are significant in children under five years of age, especially those residing in the direction of main PM10 dispersal.