Research undertaken in Espírito Santo do Turvo (SP), analyzed data on air pollution caused by sugarcane burning and respiratory health of children. Measurements of PM10, TSP, and NO2 were done during harvest period, in 2004 and 2005, at a public school patio and questionnaires to evaluate respiratory symptoms were applied to the school children. The municipality has predominantly sugarcane plantations and an alcohol processing plant close to urban area. Results of questionnaires were compared to those obtained in Juquitiba (SP), previously. Air pollution levels even during burning season were always bellow Brazilian standards. However, results indicated high prevalence of symptoms and of respiratory diseases.
Biomass fire; Sugarcane; Morbidity; Respiratory diseases; Children
