Impact of Airborne Particles on Nitric Oxide Levels in Seniors
Author Information
Author(s): Adar Sara Dubowsky, Adamkiewicz Gary, Gold Diane R., Schwartz Joel, Coull Brent A., Suh Helen
Primary Institution: Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington
Hypothesis
Increasing levels of particulate air pollution would be associated with increasing levels of exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) for all samples.
Conclusion
Fine particle exposures resulted in increased levels of FENO in elderly adults, suggestive of increased airway inflammation.
Supporting Evidence
- Fine particulate matter was positively associated with FENO in samples collected before and after group trips aboard a diesel bus.
- Associations with exposures during the trip were strong and statistically significant.
- Pre-trip findings were generally robust, while post-trip findings were sensitive to several influential days.
Takeaway
This study found that breathing in tiny particles from the air can make older people's lungs more inflamed, which is shown by higher levels of a gas they exhale called nitric oxide.
Methodology
The study involved measuring exhaled nitric oxide levels before and after bus trips for seniors, while also monitoring air pollution levels.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the exclusion of individuals with certain health conditions and the specific demographic of participants.
Limitations
The study had a relatively small sample size and was limited to a predominantly Caucasian female population.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 44 nonsmoking seniors (≥ 60 years of age), predominantly Caucasian and female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI, 2–24%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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