First nationwide child health and air pollution study commences

The Australian Child Health and Air Pollution Study (ACHAPS) will investigate the relationship between air quality and respiratory health by testing 3200 students from 60 primary schools across Australia.

This is the first nationwide study of child health in relation to air quality to be conducted in Australia. Primary school children, aged between 7 and 11 years, living in ACT, Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia and New South Wales, will be invited to participate in the research study.

"The aim of the Australian Child Health and Air Pollution study is to get a better understanding of the effect of air pollution on breathing problems, asthma and allergies in Australian children," Professor Guy Marks, chief investigator and head of epidemiology group, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, said.

"Current Australian air quality standards are based on overseas data. This study will show if these standards adequately protect the health of Australian children.

"The results of this study will give us a wealth of information that can be used to shape future policies on air quality."

Each child will undergo some simple breathing tests and an allergy test. Parents will also be asked to fill in a questionnaire about the child's health and home environment.

Test results for each child will be available on the day of testing.

For further information, visit www.woolcock.org.au/achaps.