Effect of ambient particulate matter on respiratory health of school children in the city of Dar es salaam, Tanzania.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, the escalating urbanization and industrial activities have significantly contributed to the deterioration of air quality, with ambient particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) posing a major public health concern. The impact of these pollutants on the respiratory health of vulnerable populations, particularly schoolchildren, has remained inadequately studied. Objective: This study aimed to determine the level of ambient particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and its association with respiratory symptoms among school children in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Material and Methods: Employing a cross-sectional analytical design in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, this study targeted schoolchildren aged 9-16 to explore air pollution's impact on respiratory health. With a sample of 427 children selected through stratified random sampling, it combined primary and secondary data. Standardized questionnaires and air quality monitoring for PM exposure were used to collect data. Analysis methods included descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and geospatial analysis to elucidate the relationship between PM exposure and respiratory symptoms. Results: The prevalence of respiratory symptoms among the schoolchildren was notably high, with 35.1% reporting coughing, 26.7% wheezing, 31.4% breathlessness, and 28.1% severe chest illness. Significant associations were found between proximity to pollution sources, household smoking, and the use of biomass for cooking with the occurrence of respiratory symptoms. Ambient PM levels, particularly PM2.5 and PM10, exceeded WHO limits in several locations and seasons. WHO recommends PM2.5 levels below 5 µg/m³ and PM10 below 15 µg/m³, while Dar es Salaam recorded PM2.5 between 35-50 µg/m³ and PM10 between 75-100 µg/m³, significantly higher than recommended? v Conclusion: The study emphasizes the significant impact of air pollution on the respiratory health of schoolchildren in Dar es Salaam, calling for targeted interventions to reduce particulate matter exposure, particularly in high-risk urban areas. Recommendations: Key actions include strengthening emission standards, improving traffic management, and establishing continuous air quality monitoring and health surveillance. Public awareness campaigns and promoting green spaces are also crucial, alongside collaborative efforts and further research for comprehensive air quality management.