A long-term multi-parametric monitoring study: Indoor air quality (IAQ) and the sources of the pollutants, prevalence of sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms, and respiratory health indicators

Abstract

Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) can cause several respiratory diseases and symptoms. In this study, IAQ of 121 homes located in 3 different towns of Çanakkale, Turkey was monitored throughout a year. Target air pollutants were particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), bioaerosols, and Carbon dioxide (CO2), as well as air temperature and humidity. Moreover, pulmonary functions of the occupants were measured on a monthly basis. Also, occurrence of sick building syndrome (SBS) symptoms and other health related data were gathered from the occupants by a detailed questionnaire. The SBS is a situation related to indoor air pollution in which the occupants of a building experience health or comfort related adverse effects that appear to be associated directly to the time spent in the “sick” building. Results of this study showed that the highest indoor air pollutant levels were observed in Çan town and the lowest levels were observed in Central town. Indoor levels of bioaerosols, particulate matter, benzene, Cladosporium spp., and Penicillium spp. as well as pulmonary functions of the occupants showed statistically significant differences between the locations of the homes (p < 0.001). Factor analysis implied that both indoor and outdoor originated sources contributed to IAQ. Even though the predominant SBS symptoms varied seasonally and spatially among the study sites, fatigue, cold-flu like symptoms, and difficulty in concentration occurred frequently. Correlations were found among the occurrence of SBS symptoms, measured IAQ parameters, and personal factors (p < 0.05). Performing more studies from the health and IAQ points of view improve public awareness.