A scientific study by the Institute for Work and Environmental Medicine of the University Munich, Germany, indicates that the health effects of increased ozone concentrations have been dramatically overestimated.
Over a period of six years, 340 persons were repeatedly checked for lung functions. People tested represented all age groups, blue and white-collar workers, athletes, and persons suffering from asthma. Ozone concentrations were up to 44 micrograms above the European Union limit of 180 micrograms.
Seniors and athletes showed improved lung functions with higher ozone concentrations. This is probably caused by dry, warm, and dust-free air. High ozone concentrations can, contrary to their negative image, be an indicator for good air. Ozone is a strong oxidizing agent which attacks dust particles, pollutants, and bacteria. This also explains why the highest ozone concentrations are measured in rural areas and not in cities.
Asthmatics and children showed no subjective deterioration of breathing functions but a two to four percent reduction of the usable lung volume. For people with allergies, ozone causes effects similar to pollen.
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