Quantifying the impact of PM sub(2.5) and associated heavy metals on respiratory health of children near metallurgical facilities

The aim of this study was to link the concentrations of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter below 2.5 mu m (PM sub(2.5)) and associated heavy metals with occurrence of wheezing and hospitalizations due to wheezing in 111 children who live near metallurgical plants in Targoviste City, Romania. A group of 72 children with high levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and eosinophils, as well as frequent wheezing episodes, was geolocated on digital thematic maps. Monitoring campaigns and medical assessments were performed over two consecutive years (2013-2014). The multiannual average concentrations of PM sub(2.5) ranged from 4.6 to 22.5 mu g m super(-3), up to a maximum value of 102 mu g m super(-3). Significant correlations (p