[Air pollution and bronchopulmonary disease in children]

In recent years air pollution was linked to the croup-syndrome and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). There is no doubt, that the incidence of bronchopulmonary disorders in infancy and childhood is higher than usual in more polluted areas. That has been proven especially for recurrent bronchitis and asthma syndrome. It may be possible, that there ist a higher frequency of pseudo-croup in extremely polluted areas. However, there is no certain link between air pollution and SIDS. Indoor pollution, or pollution of the micro-environment, is as important as outdoor pollution regarding bronchopulmonary diseases in infants and children. Smoking parents are the most important contribution to indoor pollution. Pediatricians should not only discuss airborn pollution but equally the importance of indoor environmental pollution as having a negative influence on the respiratory system as well.