Étude comparative des émissions de gaz volcanique du Piton de la Fournaise et des hospitalisations pour asthme de la population réunionnaise de 2005 à 2007

Abstract

Introduction Several epidemiological studies show that asthma is a more frequent pathology at Reunion Island than in metropolitan France. One of the peculiarities of this island is the presence of a particularly active volcano, which amongst others is a significant sulfur dioxide (SO 2) emitter. The latter is known for its toxic effects on the upper human airways. A recent study on the gas emissions of the volcano Kilauea in Hawaii shows that the high levels of SO 2 emitted during eruptions can entail bronchial irritations and asthma attacks to the most vulnerable ones. Purpose of the study We want to compare the number of hospitalizations for asthma of the Reunion population with the levels of SO 2 recorded during the various volcanic eruptions from 2005 to 2007. Patients and methods Inventory of the patients by the data PMSI supplied by the Drass and comparison with the SO 2 concentrations measured by Observatoire Réunionnais de l’Air (Ora) during various campaigns during and off the volcanic eruptions from 2005 to 2007. Results There was no global increase of hospitalizations for asthma during eruptions, but a significant increase in certain areas of the island according to the measured SO 2 concentrations and meteorological conditions. Conclusion A prospective study with additional measurements (eg. fine particles…), in collaboration between Ora, Météo-France, Observatoire volcanique du Piton de la Fournaise (OVPF/IPGP), the emergency services and the general practitioners, is necessary to record quantitatively any consultancy for asthma, in connection with the atmospheric emissions during the eruptions of the Piton de la Fournaise.