The effect of particulate matter reduction by idoor air filter use on respiratory symptoms and lung function: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Purpose: Exposure to particulate matter (PM) is a key public health issue, but effective intervention has not yet been established. A systematic literature review and meta-analysis has been conducted to assess the relationship between the use of air filters, one of the most commonly studied interventions, and respiratory outcomes in patients with chronic respiratory diseases. Methods: We systematically reviewed intervention studies on PM using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases up to September 2019. Studies that included data on PM concentration changes and respiratory symptoms or lung function in patients with respiratory diseases were eligible for inclusion. Effect estimates were quantified separately using the random-effects model. Results: Six studies were included in the quantitative analysis. Air filter use reduced indoor PM2.5 by 11.45 μg/m3 (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.88, 16.01 μg/m3). Air filter use was not associated with improvements in respiratory symptoms in 5 of the 6 studies or significant changes in the predicted forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (mean change, -1.77%; 95% CI, -8.25%, 4.71%). Air filter use was associated with improved peak expiratory flow rate by 5.86 (95% CI, 3.5, 8.19 of standardized difference). Conclusions: The findings of this systematic review suggest that air filters may reduce indoor PM and increase peak expiratory rate in asthmatic patients. However, most studies showed no significant effects of air filters on respiratory symptoms or FEV1. Further studies in regions with high-density PM may provide additional information on this issue.