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The effects of air pollution on the health of children

Irena Buka1, Samuel Koranteng, Alvaro R Osornio-Vargas

  • 1Paediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit, Misericordia Community Hospital.

Paediatrics & Child Health
|November 26, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Ambient air pollution is linked to serious health issues in children, including respiratory problems and even mortality. Improving air quality can significantly benefit children

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Pediatrics
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Ambient air pollution poses significant risks to children's health.
  • Existing research primarily focuses on respiratory outcomes but other impacts are emerging.
  • Unmonitored pollutants may also harm children's health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To inform pediatricians about the links between ambient air pollution and adverse child health outcomes.
  • To review current epidemiological evidence on air pollution's effects on children.
  • To highlight the impact of air quality improvements on child health.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current epidemiological evidence.
  • Analysis of studies on respiratory and non-respiratory health outcomes.
  • Examination of data on air quality improvements and health benefits.

Main Results:

  • Strong associations exist between air pollution and adverse respiratory outcomes (asthma, lung function deficits).
  • Pollution is also linked to increased mortality, adverse pregnancy outcomes, vitamin D deficiency, and immune system alterations in children.
  • Evidence shows health benefits in children following air quality improvements.

Conclusions:

  • Ambient air pollution contributes to significant child morbidity and mortality, incurring societal economic costs.
  • Addressing air pollution is crucial for protecting children's health and supporting sustainable urban development.
  • Further research is needed on under-monitored toxic air pollutants.

Keywords:
Air pollutionChildrenEnvironmental healthHealth outcomes

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