Table 6—

Adverse health effects of air pollution linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Mortality
Increased incidence of lower respiratory tract infections
Increased exacerbations
 Less ability to cope with daily activities
 Increased frequency and duration of hospitalisations
 Increased emergency ward or physician visits
 Increased pulmonary medication
 Decreased pulmonary function
Reduction in FEV1 or FVC associated with clinical symptoms
Increased prevalence of wheezing in the chest apart from colds
Increased prevalence or incidence of chest tightness
Increased prevalence or incidence of cough/phlegm requiring medical attention
  • FEV1: forced expiratory volume in one second; FVC: forced vital capacity. Data from 108.