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Pollution increases in Casco viejo

Edwards Santos/LA PRENSA

Casco viejo1041685

Panama City's air pollution has become as much a concern for buildings as it is for people.

The Instituto Especializado de Análisis (IEA) of the Universidad de Panama measured pollution in Casco Viejo, and found that levels there were twice the level considered safe by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The pollutants can cause respiratory problems such as asthma and lung disease, researchers said. The level of pollution has increased dramatically since it was measured in 2006, when the area was in line with WHO standards.

The pollution is also threatens the area's historic structures. The materials that cause the pollution also corrode building materials. The pollution is caused by vehicle traffic, which has been steadily increasing.