[Respiratory impairment in environmental epidemiology].

In recent years there was an increased need for accurate information on the health effects of inhaled pollutants. Biologic markers (i.e. indicators of events in biologic systems) can be a useful tool to measure the effects of environmental pollutants. Lung function parameters, bronchial responsiveness, immune system status and respiratory symptoms can be considered as indicators of respiratory health. In this brief review, several methods are discussed in relation to the use in epidemiological studies.