Abstract

GARCIA R, Francisco Fernando; AGUDELO G, Rubén Alberto  and  JIMENEZ J, Karen Margarita. Spatial and temporal distribution of concentrations of particulate material in Santa Marta, Colombia. Rev. Fac. Nac. Salud Pública [online]. 2006, vol.24, n.2, pp.73-82. ISSN 0120-386X.

Several epidemiological studies reported in the literature link high concentration levels of particulate material in the air to adverse effects on the health of exposed persons. In Santa Marta there are significant episodes of air quality alteration in terms of particulate material concentration due to different natural and anthropogenic factors. This phenomenon is presumably having an adverse effect on the health of people living in the area. Between February 2004 and March 2005 a study was conducted using high volume samplers in order to determine temporal and spatial variation in concentrations of particulate material within the urban area. Results revealed worrying levels of concentration for this air quality parameter. Data reported here make it possible to conduct a future study on the association between concentrations of particulate material and its effects on human health in Santa Marta.

Keywords : Calidad del aire; material particulado; partículas suspendidas totales; Air quality; particulate matter; total suspended particles.

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