Impact of air pollution on the lungs

Not only causes respiratory distress, air pollution can also cause death. The high mobility of the people in driving contributes to the level of air pollution. In urban areas, for example, during peak hours, air pollution levels tend to be higher than during normal hours. Exposure to excessive air pollution can adversely affect health. The world health organization (WHO) states, air pollution is one of the biggest environmental problems that has a significant impact on human health. By reducing the level of air pollution, a country can reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, as well as acute and chronic respiratory problems such as asthma and COPD, among its population. In 2012 it was noted, 3.7 million people in the world aged less than 60 years, died from air pollution from outside the room. In addition to outdoor air pollution, indoor pollution also creates serious health risks for the three billion people in the world who use charcoal and firewood indoors. In fact, every year, nearly 600,000 children under the age of 5 from all over the world die from respiratory ailments caused by air pollution.

Dangerous Types of Air Pollution

The following are some of the air pollution and its impact on health.

• Nitrogen Dioxide

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) arises from the combustion process (heating, power generation, vehicle engines, and ships). Continued exposure to NO2 can improve bronchitis symptoms in children with asthma. NO2 can also reduce lung function.

• Particle Elements

Particle components in the air consist of sulfate, nitrate, ammonia, sodium chloride, and mineral dust. If exposed to a combination of these elements on an ongoing basis, can increase the risk of heart disease and blood vessels, and breathing such as lung cancer.

• Ozone

Do not equate ozone at the surface with ozone in the atmosphere. Although the ozone layer functions as an antidote to ultraviolet (UV) rays, on the surface of the ozone, including pollution. Ozone on the surface of the earth is formed when sunlight triggers chemical reactions between elements of pollution. Ozone pollution can reduce lung function, trigger asthma, and other lung diseases.

• Sulfur Dioxide

Sulfur dioxide or SO2 can cause inflammation of the respiratory tract, triggering symptoms of coughing up phlegm. Inhalation of this element also increases one's risk of infection in the respiratory tract and worsens the condition of asthma and bronchitis. Sulfur dioxide is produced from burning coal and gasoline.

The air you breathe, even though it looks clean, may contain many substances that can be harmful to health. For that, try to protect yourself and your family from air pollution by using air purifiers (air purifiers), breathing masks and planting plants that function as air cleaners.