Correlation between Indoor Air Pollutants and Asthma

What is it about?

Many people consider air pollution an outdoor issue, but indoor air can also impact health. Students spend hours inside classrooms, breathing in air that may contain harmful pollutants. Poor indoor air quality can trigger asthma and other respiratory problems, especially in those with pre-existing conditions. This study examined the air quality inside classrooms at the Civil Engineering Department of Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET) to see if it could be linked to asthma symptoms. Researchers measured common air pollutants, including carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and ozone (O₃), using portable air analyzers. They also surveyed students about their respiratory health. The results were concerning—26% of students had asthma, and 35% had a family history of the condition. The study found that levels of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) were high enough to cause mild respiratory discomfort. To determine if the classroom met air quality standards, researchers used the WELL Certification scorecard. A minimum of 17 points is required for certification, but the classroom received only 4, indicating poor air quality. The study emphasizes the need for better indoor air management in schools. Educational institutions should follow air quality standards like the WELL Building Standard to create healthier environments. Simple measures such as improved ventilation, air purifiers, and routine monitoring can help ensure students breathe cleaner air, reducing health risks.

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Photo by Ivan Aleksic on Unsplash

Photo by Ivan Aleksic on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Indoor air quality is often overlooked, yet it is crucial to our health. While many studies focus on outdoor pollution, this research highlights the impact of indoor air pollution in classrooms, where students spend a significant part of their day. Poor air quality can trigger asthma, allergies, and other respiratory problems, affecting students’ ability to focus and learn. This study is important because it sheds light on a hidden health risk within educational institutions. What makes this research unique is its focus on university classrooms, an area that has not been widely studied. Most air quality research in educational settings targets schools, but university students are also vulnerable to air pollution. The study not only measured air pollutants but also assessed students' health conditions through surveys. By linking pollution levels to student health, it provides concrete evidence that poor indoor air can contribute to asthma symptoms. Another key aspect of this study is its use of the WELL Certification system, a globally recognized standard for indoor air quality. The findings showed that the classroom scored far below the required level, highlighting the urgent need for improvement. This approach sets a benchmark for future studies and encourages institutions to take proactive steps toward healthier learning spaces. By raising awareness about indoor air pollution in universities, this study paves the way for better air quality management in classrooms, ultimately protecting students’ health and well-being. It calls for real action to create cleaner and safer educational environments.

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