Aerobiology of Cupressaceae in Porto city, Portugal

AbstractIn the last years, pollen-related respiratory allergies have increased worldwide. In the case of Cupressaceae pollen, allergy symptoms appearing during the winter are often confused with generic respiratory diseases such as the common cold, influenza syndrome, among others. The aim of our study was to monitor the atmospheric of Cupressaceae pollen in the city of Porto, investigate its diurnal variation, as well as find the meteorological factors influencing its atmospheric concentration. Airborne pollen sampling was performed using a 7-day Hirst-type volumetric spore trap for 5  years (2013–2017). Cupressaceae main pollen season, interannual and diurnal variations, as well as correlations with the meteorological parameters were determined. During the study period, 2015 was the year that registered the highest annual pollen concentration, while 2016 presented the lowest. Cupressaceae pollen season occurred during the winter, being February the month with the highest concentration. The diurnal distribution pattern presents a well-defined peak concentration in the morning hours (9 a.m.–12 a.m.), which decays abruptly in the early afternoon. Finally, airborne pollen concentration and meteorological factors presented significant correlations, with temperature being the most influent variable.
Source: Aerobiologia - Category: Environmental Health Source Type: research