Environmental air pollution: respiratory effects.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Respiratory Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Air pollution is a major global risk factor for morbidity and mortality.
• It contributes to climate change, extreme weather, and environmental imbalances.
• Exposure to pollutants directly impacts human health, increasing the incidence of various diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of different air pollutant sources and types on the respiratory system.
• To discuss acute and chronic health effects of air pollution.
• To highlight studies conducted in Brazil and address susceptible populations and exercise in polluted environments.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of articles on environmental air pollution and respiratory health.
• Analysis of studies detailing acute effects (symptoms, ER visits, hospitalizations, deaths).
• Analysis of studies detailing chronic effects (asthma, COPD, lung cancer, lung function decline).

Main Results:

• Air pollution exposure leads to increased respiratory symptoms, emergency visits, hospitalizations, and mortality.
• Chronic exposure is linked to higher incidence of asthma, COPD, and lung cancer, alongside accelerated lung function decline.
• Specific impacts on susceptible populations and risks associated with exercising in polluted environments are discussed.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare providers must recognize air pollution as a critical risk factor.
• Counseling susceptible individuals on protective measures is essential for treatment facilitation.
• Promoting environmental policies to reduce emissions is crucial for public health and disease prevention.