Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #111457

Bernadette M. Longo, RN, PhD, Department of Public Health, Oregon State University, 254 Waldo Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, 906-428-1938, blongo1959@aol.com

The largest point source for sulfur dioxide gas (SO₂) in the United States is Kilauea Volcano, Hawai`i. Continual effusive eruption with gas release has occurred for 22 years. Regional ground-level assessment of SO₂ and fine particles, likely aqueous sulfuric acid, in the downwind volcanic gas plume indicates high levels of both species. As part of an epidemiological nursing investigation, SO₂ and fine particle data were collected in the Kau District, from 37 to 74 km downwind from the eruption, and at a nonexposed control site in the north section of the island. Typical trade winds and effusive eruption occurred during sampling in August–September 2003. Ambient SO₂ concentrations, measured with diffusion tubes, ranged from 6 to 34 ppbv, above the minimal risk level for an acute exposure, and correlated negatively with altitude. In contrast, fine particle (<0.3 µm size) concentrations, measured with a cascade impactor, ranged from 0.61 to 11.82 µg/m³ and correlated positively with altitude. Exposure on the population is not the same in all downwind areas, as different areas experience different species of sulfur pollution, at varying concentrations. The strong geographic variability of pollutant concentrations underscores the need for regional sampling prior to point monitoring in exposure assessments in volcanic settings. Indoor and outdoor SO₂ testing in homes, schools and the hospital, yielded penetration ratios from 0.15 to 0.71. Kau residents are exposed to volcanogenic pollutants at concentrations that warrant concern for adverse health effects.

Learning Objectives: The participant will be shown results from a regional air assessment in a volcanic setting by visual concentration contour maps and data tables. Comparision of concentrations detected can be compared to different standards and guidelines set by agencies (i.e. EPA, WHO, ATSDR). After reviewing the poster, the participant will be able to

• List two types of air pollutants released from Kilauea Volcano
• Evaluate the air quality on the population by comparing concentrations detected in the study to agency standards and recomendations for air quality
• Describe the efficacy of using a method of regional assessment prior to point monitoring in exposure assessments

Keywords: Air Quality, Environmental Exposures

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.