Air pollution with nitrogen dioxide and its impact on health

Abstract

Background: The Chilean Metropolitan region is exposed to nitrogen dioxide levels that are above the WHO Air Quality Guidelines. Aim: To report the exposure to nitrogen dioxide levels and to estimate the damage that these levels can cause in health. Material and Methods: Description of nitrogen dioxide levels in the Chilean Metropolitan Region between 2016 and 2018 and the attributable risk of these levels on the population health. Results: The average hourly levels of nitrogen dioxide exceeded 40 μg/m3. In the three years studied, 11,686 attributable health problems were estimated, including deaths, hospitalizations, and attendance to emergency rooms. Conclusions: We provide valid information to review and adjust primary air quality standards for nitrogen dioxide. The exposed population should be educated about the risk of this exposure to promote self-care.