Kids need clean air: air pollution and children's health

Air pollution affects children's health in many ways, including reduced lung function, increased morbidity, increased use of health care services, and infant mortality. Information on the relationship of air pollution and children's health is discussed, with a focus on the diversity of research methods used to understand this relationship. Decisions affecting air quality ultimately are made through political and social processes. Health care and health promotion practitioners who are concerned about the health of children should provide leadership for advocacy to promote environmental health in our communities.