Sulfur Oxides and Suspended Particulates

Abstract

The levels of air pollution for sulfur compounds and particulates decreased somewhat between two sampling periods five to six years apart in Berlin, NH. Population surveys showed that there was a lower prevalence of respiratory symptoms in 1967 than in 1961. These differences persisted after age standardization and when comparisons were made within a smoking category. Changes in inhaling habits or the use of filter-tip cigarettes did not seem to be likely explanations for this decrease in prevalence. Tests of pulmonary function were less clear-cut but did indicate that a slight improvement in pulmonary function had possibly occurred. It is believed that these changes may be related to the decrease in the levels of air pollution.