"Effect of Air-Pollution on Respiratory Health of Traffic Police in Ahmedabad "

Background: Air pollution, particularly from vehicular emissions, is a significant public health concern globally, with respiratory disorders being one of its major health impacts. Traffic police, due to their long-term exposure to traffic-related air pollutants, are at an increased risk of respiratory issues. In India, the increasing number of vehicles and inadequate pollution control measures have exacerbated air quality problems, particularly in urban areas (NAAQMS, 1989-1993; GPCB, 2007-2011). Prior studies have demonstrated that vehicular pollutants like particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) contribute to impaired respiratory function and increased respiratory morbidity. Objectives: This study aims to assess the impact of long-term exposure to vehicular air pollution on the respiratory health of traffic police officers in Ahmedabad, with a focus on key respiratory function indicators such as Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1), and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 100 male traffic police officers aged 20-60 years. Participants were divided into two groups: the exposed group, comprising 50 officers with more than five years of exposure to vehicular emissions, and the control group, comprising 50 officers with minimal exposure, working in administrative roles. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were performed using a spirometer to assess FVC, FEV1, and PEFR. Participants were further divided into smokers and non-smokers to examine the combined effects of smoking and pollution exposure on respiratory health. Results: The study found that traffic police exposed to vehicular pollution had significantly lower lung function compared to the control group. The FEV1 levels in the exposed smokers were significantly reduced (1.95 ± 0.27 L) compared to the control non-smokers (2.75 ± 0.35 L), indicating an obstructive pattern of respiratory impairment. The FEV1/FVC ratio was also lower in the exposed group, particularly among smokers, suggesting compromised lung capacity due to prolonged exposure to pollutants. PEFR values also showed a marked reduction in the exposed group. Conclusion: Prolonged exposure to vehicular emissions has a significant negative impact on the respiratory health of traffic police, especially in smokers. The study highlights the need for protective interventions, such as regular pulmonary function monitoring and the provision of protective masks, to reduce the health risks associated with air pollution exposure. Urban planning and pollution control measures must be strengthened to mitigate these health hazards in high-exposure occupations (WHO, 2000).