Ilgaz A, Uyanusta FÇK, Arbak P, Müezzinoğlu A, Çiftçi TU, Akpınar S, Fırat H, Güven SF, Çiftçi B, Karaoğlanoğlu S, Dağlı E, Erkan F. Extensive Exposure to Tear Gases in Ankara.
Turk Thorac J 2019;
20:108-113. [PMID:
30958982 DOI:
10.5152/turkthoracj.2018.18096]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
The most common chemical substances used as mass control agents are chloroacetophenone, chlorobenzylidene malononitrile, and oleoresin capsicum. These agents not only have local and rapid effects but also have systemic and long-term effects. The aim of the present study was to discuss the patterns of tear gas exposure and to investigate its effects on respiratory functions.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A face-to-face survey was conducted in 86 individuals who had been exposed to tear gas indoor and outdoor during the public protests in June 2013.
RESULTS
The most frequently reported respiratory complaints included cough, dyspnea, phlegm, and chest pain. Spirometry measurements including forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) were also performed. Indoor exposers have lower mean % predicted FVC and FEV1 values than outdoor exposers. All complaints and signs were more common in indoor exposure to tear gas than in outdoor exposure.
CONCLUSION
Safety of the chemicals used as mass control agents during protests is doubtful as these agents are associated with several health risks.
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