Atmospheric Pollution in Dakar (Senegal) from 2011 to 2016: Correlation with the Prevalence of Respiratory Manifestations

Air pollution has a major impact on respiratory health. We conducted this study with the aim of correlating the levels of pollutants measured by the AQMC with the different respiratory manifestations reported in health facilities in Dakar (Senegal). Descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study conducted in Dakar from 2011 to 2016 to correlate pollution levels with respiratory manifestations. During the six years, 342203 patients were received for respiratory manifestations of which 61.81% had upper airway disease. Cough related or preceded by a cold predominated among the lower respiratory manifestations with 42.49% of cases. Peaks of gaseous pollution were consistently noted in the first and last quarters of each year. The prevalence of respiratory manifestations was strongly correlated with pollutant levels. Air pollution is permanent with peaks during the dry season. It has a negative impact on respiratory health. This justifies the need for multisectoral policies at different scales of decision.