Effects of oxidant air pollution on resistance to respiratory infection a review

Abstract

This literature survey suggests that ambient levels of exposure to oxidant gases increases susceptibiliy to respiratory infections. This notion is primarily based on available animal data. Since the basic biological mechanisms of action of the human and the animal pulmonary defenses are similar, it is reasonable to extrapolate these biologic responses in experimental animals to human exposures. however, in general terms it should be noted, that epidemiologic data regarding a relationship of exposure to oxidant air pollutants and defense to infections are inconclusive. At this point it is not well possible to answer questions such as the relative importance of duration and concentration of exposure, and reversibility and adaptation phenomena, although these issues are of utmost importance for evaluation of risk posed to the population. Research at various levels to fill the scientific gaps is required. Experimental inhalation toxicologic research using human volunteers and laboratory animals of exposure to oxidant gases and the extent of reversibility of the effects. Epidemiologic studies on prevalence and nature of respiratory infections and possible association with exposure to air pollutants is indicated.<br>