Modeling exposure of schoolchildren to traffic-related air pollution: short term, medium term and long term exposure

Abstract

Background and aims: In the HEAPS-study (Health Effects of Air Pollution in Antwerp Schools), the importance of the school location on children's exposure and health was investigated in Antwerp, Belgium, with a special focus on traffic-related air pollution. 130 children (6 to 12 years old) from 2 schools participated in a human biomonitoring study measuring oxidative stress, inflammation and cardiovascular markets. In this first part of the study detailed exposure estimates are constructed for all members of the cohort. In a second part, acute, subacute and long term health effects will be considered.