Abstract
BACKGROUND: Wood smoke has been associated with respiratory symptoms. This study examined the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and health effects of wood smoke exposures (from home heating, curing meat, and tanning hides) among residents of Deline, Northwest Territories (NWT). METHODS: A survey was conducted of all residents. Relationships between wood smoke and respiratory symptoms were examined. RESULTS: The response rate was 70.2% (n=402). 71% of people at least 18 years old were current smokers. Prevalence of symptoms was higher for women (odds ratios (ORs) 1.3-3.1). Women who smoked were more likely to be exposed to indoor smoke from curing and tanning. ORs for respiratory symptoms were higher for females, increased with age, and were strongly affected by smoking. Among those at least 18 years old, phlegm on winter mornings (6.5 (95% CI: 2.3-18.1)), dyspnoea (5.1 (95% CI: 1.9-13.2)), and watery or itchy eyes (3.6 (95% CI: 1.4-9.0)) were significantly related to self-reported outdoor wood smoke and smoke curing. Home heating was marginally associated with wheeze. No significant associations were found for males. CONCLUSIONS: Women engaged in curing/tanning demonstrated increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms. The cultural importance of these activities precludes abandoning them. Smoking cessation, limiting wood smoke exposure times, and process modifications in curing and tanning could reduce risk of adverse health effects.