Respiratory risks caused by atmospheric air pollution and respiratory morbidity among residents of Omsk

Introduction. Contaminants emitted into atmospheric air and tropical to respiratory organs form maximum non-carcinogenic risks in Omsk. Respiratory risk levels over the past 12 years have not dropped below the "high risk" level and ranged from 9.4 to 20 in different years of observation. "Clean Air" Federal project, which is being implemented in Omsk, should be successful not only in terms of reducing harmful emissions, but also contribute to a sustainable reduction in the incidence rate.

The study aims to determine the list of pollutants affecting the actual levels of respiratory morbidity of the Omsk population, with the establishment of intracity risk areas.

Materials and methods. The study used social-hygienic monitoring data: results of laboratory studies of atmospheric air at stationary stations of Roshydromet, respiratory disease incidence of the Omsk population by age groups for the period 2009–2020. Population health risks were assessed according to health risk assessment methodology applied in case of exposure to chemicals (Guide R 2.1.10.1920-04). Correlation and two-factor variance analyses were used to assess the association between respiratory risks and respiratory disease incidence.

Results. Long-term increase in the incidence of chronic bronchitis and asthma in adults and adolescents, unstable rates of asthma in children and dysfunctional health indicators in children under 1 year of age may indicate adverse effects of air-polluting chemicals. High levels of respiratory hazards in Omsk are formed mainly by suspended substances, formaldehyde, carbon (black), hydrogen chloride. The negative impact of these pollutants on the health of Omsk residents was confirmed by spatiotemporal positive connections in the system "respiratory risks — respiratory diseases". Microdistricts with the highest levels of respiratory risks and morbidity of respiratory diseases in children 0–14 years old have been identified on the territory of the city.

Conclusion. A list of pollutants emitted in the atmospheric air, affecting the actual levels of respiratory morbidity of the population of Omsk, has been established. Intracity areas of respiratory risk and increased incidence of respiratory diseases in children have been identified. Risk mitigation measures are proposed.

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