Effects of air pollution on health of residents in vicinity of an electrometallurgical factory in Chengdu

Abstract

Air pollution in an electrometallurgical plant in Chengdu was monitored in 1988. Results showed that atmospheric TSP and Ni concentrations in the vicinity of the plant were higher than those in control area; and TSP content higher than its health standard level. A population of 262 children was physically examined in the same pollution and control areas in May, 1988. Physical examinations were as follows:otorhinolaryngological examination, skin patch test of Ni and Co, immune function test (including PHA skin test, salivary LZM content), Ni levels in human hair and urine etc. We found that body burdens of Ni in population of pollution area increased because of the pollution of Ni compounds in the atmosphere. Hair Ni content in pollution area was significantly higher than that in control area, and the positive rate of Ni skin patch test was also markedly higher than that in control area. Case history indicated that there was a significant difference in Ni content as detected by otorhinolaryngological examinations between the pollution and control areas. Some measures were suggested to improve the air quality based on the study.