The effect of meteorological factors on airborne Betula pollen concentrations in Lublin (Poland)

Krystyna Piotrowska,Agnieszka Kubik-Komar

doi:10.1007/s10453-012-9249-z

Krystyna Piotrowska, Agnieszka Kubik-Komar

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10453-012-9249-z

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Journal: Aerobiologia	Publication Date: Jan 31, 2012
Citations: 38	License type: cc-by

Affiliation: University of Life Sciences in Lublin

Abstract

The present study investigated the pattern of the birch atmospheric pollen seasons in Lublin in the period 2001–2010. Pollen monitoring was conducted using a Lanzoni VPPS 2000 sampler. The atmospheric pollen seasons were determined with the 98% method. Regression analysis was used to determine correlations between meteorological conditions and the pattern of the birch pollen season. On average, the birch pollen season started on 12 April, ended on 13 May, and lasted 32 days. The peak value and the Seasonal Pollen Index showed the greatest variation in particular years. All the seasons were right-skewed. During the study years, a trend was found towards earlier occurrence of the seasonal peak. Regression equations were developed for the following parameters of the atmospheric pollen season: start, duration, peak value and average pollen concentration during the season. The obtained model fit was at a level of 64–81%. Statistical analysis shows that minimum temperature of February and March and total rainfall in June in the year preceding pollen release have the greatest effect on the birch atmospheric pollen season in Lublin. Low temperatures in February promote the occurrence of high pollen concentrations.

Highlights

Recent research shows that in Poland over 45% of its population suffer from various allergies
The present study investigated the pattern of the birch atmospheric pollen seasons in Lublin in the period 2001–2010
The analysis of the meteorological data from the birch atmospheric pollen season demonstrates that pollen seasons were the warmest in 2003 and 2006, while in 2007 was the coldest one

Summary

Introduction

Recent research shows that in Poland over 45% of its population (that is, more than 15 million residents) suffer from various allergies These diseases are primarily prevalent among children and young people (Samolinski et al 2007). Allergy symptoms appear suddenly in people allergic to birch pollen, without initial symptoms gradually developing as it is in the case of allergies to other allergens (Rapiejko 2005). This is associated with very high concentrations of birch pollen grains at the beginning of the season. Most pollen, that is, 70–80%, is shed within 2–3 days (Suszka 1979)

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