Exposure to incense burning, biomarkers, and the physical health of temple workers in Taiwan.

Incense burning releases heavy particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen dioxide (NO), known to have adverse effects on human health. Long-term exposure to PM and NO increases inflammatory cytokine levels and can induce respiratory diseases. This study examined the association between incense burning exposure and the health status, especially inflammatory biomarkers, of temple workers and volunteers in Taiwan.