Evaluation of the impact of black carbon on the worsening of allergic rhinitis and asthma in the region of Uzice Serbia

Many epidemiological studies have shown a positive association between black carbon (BC) concentrations and exacerbation of allergic rhinitis and asthma. The aim of this study was to examine, for the first time in Serbia, the connection between visits to emergency services due to worsening of allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma and the concentration of BC in the air. Materials and methods: A time-stratified case crossover design was applied for emergency room visits due to allergic rhinitis and worsening asthma that occurred in the Užice region between 2012-2014. Data on visits were routinely collected at the Uzice Health Center. Results: A statistically significant association was observed between the worsening of allergic rhinitis and BC concentration two days before the visit to the emergency department (UO = 359, UO = 3.20 and UO = 3.24, depending on whether the analysis is not adjusted or adjusted for appropriate weather conditions). There was also a statistically significant association between worsening of allergic asthma and BC concentration two days before the emergency service visit (UO = 3.15, GP = 0.98-10.14) and three days before the emergency service visit (UO = 2.98; UO = 3.23 ; UO = 2.98). Conclusion: Exposure to soot, especially during the heating season, increases the risk of emergency services due to worsening of allergic rhinitis and asthma.