Clinical Investigation

Air Pollution in Aydin City Between 1997-2004

  • Pelin BASAR
  • Pinar OKYAY
  • Filiz ERGIN
  • Süheyla COSAN
  • Adnan YILDIZ

Received Date: 20.09.2005 Accepted Date: 15.02.2006 Meandros Med Dent J 2005;6(3):11-15

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate air pollution in Aydin city between 1997-2004. Method: In this cross sectional study, the levels of particulates and sulfur dioxide in the city of Aydin have been examined between 1997 and 2004. The data have been acquired from the Environmental Health Division of the Health Directorate of Aydin province. Samples were continuously measured by a semi automatic sulphur dioxide and exhaust sampler (Burch-Bulap 201-8, 87036) at the Public Health Laboratory. Measurements of 14 different areas of the city were made twice daily: in the morning (08.00-09.00) and in the evening (16.00-17.00). Montly and yearly comparisons were made using the average values of measurements taken between 1997-2003 with the standards of the Air Quality Protection Regulations. Findings:During the seven year period of monitorization, differences in levels of sulfur dioxide, particulatesand the level of air pollution were insignificant (for the level of sulphur dioxide and particulates, p=0,526, p=0,822 respectively). The seven year average of the level of sulfur dioxide was 41,26±24,86 μgr/m3; while the particulate matter was 27,66±16,23 μgr/m3. In winter months, especially January air pollution levels were the highest (p=0,000). Conclusion: The air pollution measurements do not exceed the Air Quality Protection Regulation, suggestedlong/short term standards. As for the levels of sulphur dioxide and particulates, there has been no change between the years 1997-2003. The organized projects of the Environmental Health Division of the Health Directorate of Aydin Province has played a significant role concerning these results. Even though the limits have not been exceeded, due to meterological conditions during the winter months, the air pollution parameters show an obvious increase in the air pollution. Because of several regulatory changes, air measurements have not been obtained for the last year, and so no current data are available. If adequate air pollution control measures are not taken, there may be a rise in air pollution parameters. Especially during the winter months, the air pollution levels should be continually monitored as sudden increases may occur.

Keywords: environmental health, public health laboratory, air pollution, SO2, particulate matter