Effects of Air Pollution on Human Health
Introduction
Air pollution refers to the release of pollutants into the air that are detrimental to human health and the planet as a whole. The Clean Air Act authorizes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to protect public health by regulating the emissions of these harmful air pollutants. The National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) establish allowable concentrations of six principal types of pollutants, known as "criteria" pollutants. They are particulate matter, ozone, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and lead.
Health Effects of Air Pollution
The health effects of air pollution are numerous and depend on the type and concentration of the pollutants, the duration and intensity of exposure, and the individual's health status and genetics. The most well-documented effects include respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and death.
Respiratory Diseases
Air pollution is a significant risk factor for a number of pollution-related diseases, including respiratory infections, heart disease, COPD, stroke and lung cancer. The health effects of air pollution impinge heavily on the wellbeing of the population.
Cardiovascular Diseases
Air pollution can also cause long-term damage to people's nerves, brain, kidneys, liver, and other organs. Some scientists suspect air pollutants cause birth defects. Nearly 2.5 million people die worldwide each year from the direct effects of air pollution.
Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes
Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of air pollution due to the potential for direct fetal exposure. Studies have linked maternal exposure to air pollution with preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in children.
Death
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one-third of deaths from stroke, lung cancer and heart disease are due to air pollution. This is having an equivalent effect to that of smoking tobacco, and much higher than, say, the effects of eating too much salt.
Prevention and Control
Air pollution prevention and control measures are critical to reducing the risk of health effects from air pollution. These measures include policies and legislation aimed at reducing emissions of pollutants, improving energy efficiency and increasing the use of sustainable energy sources.