Influence of ecology on human health

Influence of ecology on human health: Comprehensive analysis

Section 1: air pollution and respiratory diseases

Air pollution, both in closed rooms and outdoors, is one of the most significant factors of environmental risk to human health in the world. Its effect varies from mild respiratory symptoms to serious chronic diseases and even premature death. The main air pollutants, pose a threat to health, are solid particles (PM), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and carbon monoxide (CO).

• Solid particles (PM): PM includes particles weighed in the air, such as dust, soot, smoke and drops of liquid. They are classified depending on their size, and PM10 (particles with a diameter of less than 10 micrometers) and PM2.5 (particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers) pose the greatest threat to health. Due to their small size, they can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation, damage to tissues and aggravation of respiratory diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and bronchitis. Long-term exposure to PM2.5 is also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, stroke and lung cancer. PM sources include industrial enterprises, vehicles, biomass burning and natural phenomena, such as dusty storms.

• Ozon (O3): Ozone is a secondary pollutant formed during the interaction of nitrogen oxides (NOX) and volatile organic compounds (los) under the influence of sunlight. High ozone concentrations can irritate the respiratory tract, cause cough, chest pain and shortness of breath. This is especially dangerous for people with asthma and other respiratory diseases, as well as for children and the elderly. Ozone can also damage the tissues of the lungs and reduce their function.

• Nitrogen dioxide (No2): No2 is formed mainly when burning fossil fuel, for example, in cars and power plants. The effect of NO2 can irritate the respiratory tract, cause cough and shortness of breath. Long -term exposure is associated with an increased risk of respiratory infections, especially in children. No2 is also the predecessor of the formation of ozone and solid particles, which contributes to the total air pollution.

• Sulfur dioxide (SO2): SO2 is formed mainly when burning fossil fuel containing sulfur, for example, at power plants and industrial enterprises. The effect of SO2 can irritate the respiratory tract, cause cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. SO2 can also aggravate asthma and other respiratory diseases.

• Carbon monoxide (CO): Co is formed with incomplete combustion of fossil fuel. This is a colorless and smell of gas, which can be deadly at high concentrations. Co binds to hemoglobin in the blood, reducing the ability of the blood to transfer oxygen. This can lead to dizziness, headache, nausea, weakness and even death. The main source of CO is transport.

Influence on risk groups:

• Children: Children are more susceptible to air pollution, since their lungs are still developing, and they breathe faster than adults. Air pollution can increase the risk of respiratory infections, asthma and other respiratory diseases in children.
• Elderly people: Older people are also more susceptible to air pollution, since their immune system and respiratory system are weakened. Air pollution can aggravate existing diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and COPD.
• People with respiratory diseases: People with asthma, COPD and other respiratory diseases are especially vulnerable to air pollution. Air pollution can aggravate their symptoms and lead to exacerbations.

Mitting measures to mitigate the consequences:

• Reducing emissions from transport, industry and power plants.
• Improving the energy efficiency of buildings and vehicles.
• The use of renewable energy sources.
• Promotion of public transport and bicycles.
• The introduction of a policy aimed at improving air quality.

Section 2: Water pollution and gastrointestinal diseases

Water pollution is a serious threat to human health, leading to a wide range of diseases, especially the gastrointestinal tract. Contaminated water may contain pathogenic microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, parasites), chemicals (heavy metals, pesticides, industrial waste) and organic substances that can cause various diseases.

• Pathogenic microorganisms: Water pollution by feces of humans and animals is the main source of pathogenic microorganisms. These microorganisms can cause diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, typhoid, hepatitis A and other gastrointestinal infections. Children, elderly people and people with a weakened immune system are especially vulnerable to these infections.

• Chemicals: Chemicals that fall into water from industrial enterprises, agricultural land and household waste can also pose a threat to health. Heavy metals, such as lead, mercury and cadmium, can accumulate in the body and cause damage to the nervous system, kidneys and other organs. Pesticides can cause cancer, violations of the reproductive system and other diseases. Industrial waste may contain a wide range of toxic chemicals that can cause various diseases.

• Organic substances: Organic substances, such as fertilizers, wastewater and livestock waste, can pollute water and lead to an increase in algae and bacteria. This can reduce the level of oxygen in water, kill fish and other aquatic organisms. The use of water containing high concentrations of organic substances can cause gastrointestinal diseases.

Influence on risk groups:

• Children: Children are more susceptible to polluted water, since their immune system is not yet fully developed. Water pollution can lead to diarrhea, dehydration and deceleration of growth in children.
• Pregnant women: Pregnant women are also more susceptible to polluted water. Water pollution can increase the risk of miscarriage, premature birth and congenital defects.
• People with a weakened immune system: People with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other diseases weakening the immune system are also more susceptible to the effects of contaminated water. Water pollution can lead to serious infections and complications in these people.

Mitting measures to mitigate the consequences:

• Wishwater cleaning.
• Protection of drinking water sources.
• Monitoring the use of pesticides and fertilizers.
• Disposal of industrial waste.
• Ensuring access to safe and clean water for everyone.

Section 3: soil pollution and risk of oncological diseases

Soil pollution is a serious threat to human health, especially in connection with an increased risk of developing cancer. Contaminated soil may contain a wide range of toxic substances, such as heavy metals, pesticides, industrial waste and radioactive materials that can penetrate food, water and air, leading to the effects of the human body.

• Heavy metals: Heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium, arsenic and mercury, can accumulate in the soil from industrial enterprises, mining, the use of pesticides and fertilizers. These metals can penetrate the plants that we eat, as well as into the water that we drink. Long -term exposure to heavy metals is associated with an increased risk of developing lung cancer, skin cancer, kidney cancer and bladder cancer.

• Pesticides: Pesticides are used to combat pests in agriculture, but they can also pollute the soil and water. Some pesticides, such as chlorological pesticides, have carcinogenic properties. Long -term exposure to pesticides is associated with an increased risk of development of leukemia, lymphoma and breast cancer.

• Industrial waste: Industrial waste may contain a wide range of toxic chemicals that can pollute the soil. These chemicals may include polyhloric bifeniles (PHB), dioxins and furats. Long -term exposure to industrial waste is associated with an increased risk of developing liver cancer, lung cancer and skin cancer.

• Radioactive materials: Radioactive materials can fall into the soil from nuclear tests, accidents at nuclear power plants and disposal of radioactive waste. Long -term exposure to radioactive materials is associated with an increased risk of leukemia, thyroid cancer and bone cancer.

Exact mechanisms:

• Admission through food: Contaminated soil can lead to pollution of food grown on this basis. Heavy metals and pesticides can accumulate in plants that we eat, increasing the risk of cancer.
• Admission through water: Contaminated soil can lead to pollution of groundwater. Heavy metals, pesticides and other chemicals can penetrate into the groundwater that we use for drinking.
• Admission through the air: Contaminated soil can lead to air pollution. Toxic substances can evaporate from the soil and fall into the air we breathe.

Mitting measures to mitigate the consequences:

• Cleaning contaminated soil.
• Monitoring the use of pesticides and fertilizers.
• Disposal of industrial waste.
• Monitoring of the quality of soil and water.
• Reducing emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere.

Section 4: Climate change and spread of infectious diseases

Climate change caused by anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases has a deep effect on human health, including contributes to the spread of infectious diseases. A change in temperature, a change in the nature of precipitation and an increase in sea level create favorable conditions for the propagation and spread of carriers of diseases, such as mosquitoes, ticks and rodents, as well as for the survival and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms.

• Malaria: Climate change expands the geographical habitat of mosquitoes Anophelescarriers of malaria, in higher latitudes and heights. An increase in temperature accelerates the life cycle of mosquitoes and parasites of malaria, which leads to an increase in the number of cases of malaria.

• Denge’s fever: Climate change also expands the geographical habitat of mosquitoes Aedescarriers of fever denge. An increase in temperature and a change in the nature of precipitation create favorable conditions for the propagation of mosquitoes Aedes In urban areas, which leads to an increase in the number of cases of Denge fever.

• Western Nile’s fever: Climate change affects the life cycle of mosquitoes Culexcarriers of the fever of the Western Nile. An increase in temperature accelerates the life cycle of mosquitoes and the Western Nile virus, which leads to an increase in the number of cases of the disease of the fever of the Western Nile.

• Lyme disease: Climate change affects the life cycle of ticks Ixodescarriers of Lyme’s disease. An increase in temperature expands the geographical habitat of ticks, which leads to an increase in the number of cases of Lime disease.

• Cholera: Climate change affects the spread of cholera. Increasing water temperature helps to reproduce bacteria Vibrio choleraecalling the cholera. A change in the nature of precipitation can lead to floods that pollute the sources of drinking water and contribute to the spread of cholera.

• Zika virus: Climate change is influenced by the AEDES AEGYPTI and AEDES albopictus mosquito area, which carry the ZIK virus. An increase in temperature and changes in precipitation schemes can lead to expansion of zones, where these mosquitoes can survive and multiply, exposing more people at the risk of infection with ZIK virus. This is especially important for pregnant women, since the Zika virus can cause microcephaly in newborns.

• Other infections: Climate change can also affect the spread of other infectious diseases such as leptospirosis, khantavirus infection and coccydioidomycosis.

Mitting measures to mitigate the consequences:

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Adaptation to the consequences of climate change.
• Improving health systems.
• Vaccination of the population.
• Enlightenment of the population about measures of prevention of infectious diseases.
• Development and introduction of effective strategies for monitoring diseases carriers.

Section 5: noise and mental health

The noise, especially the urban one, is an essential factor in environmental stress, which has a negative impact on human mental health. Long -term noise can lead to an increased level of stress, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance and cognitive functions.

• Increased stress: The noise activates the sympathetic nervous system, which leads to an increase in the production of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline. Long-term noise can lead to chronic stress, which can have a negative impact on the immune system, cardiovascular system and mental health.

• Anxiety and depression: Noise can cause anxiety and depression. It can violate concentration, irritate and complicate relaxation. A long -term impact of noise can lead to social isolation and a decrease in the quality of life, which increases the risk of anxiety and depression.

• Sleep violation: Noise can break the dream. It can make it difficult to fall asleep, cause frequent awakening and reduce sleep quality. The lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, irritability, a decrease in concentration and an increased risk of accidents.

• Cognitive functions: Noise can disrupt cognitive functions, such as memory, attention and training. Studies have shown that children living in noisy areas have lower performance in school. Noise can also reduce labor productivity in adults.

• Cardiovascular diseases: Noise increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, coronary heart disease and stroke. Chronic noise leads to prolonged activation of the sympathetic nervous system, which, in turn, leads to an increase in blood pressure and cholesterol.

• Social consequences: Noise can have a negative impact on human social life. He can complicate communication, lead to conflicts with neighbors and reduce the attractiveness of housing.

Sources of noise:

• Transport (cars, trains, planes).
• Industry.
• Construction.
• Entertainment events (concerts, nightclubs).
• Household appliances.

Mitting measures to mitigate the consequences:

• Reducing the noise level from sources (for example, installing noise -protective screens, the use of quiet technology).
• Planning of the urban environment, taking into account acoustic requirements.
• The use of soundproofing materials in construction.
• Regulation of noise level in residential areas.
• Enlightenment of the population about the dangers of noise and measures of protection against it.
• Landscaping of urban territories (plants absorb noise).

Section 6: Exposure of ultraviolet radiation and skin cancer

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted by the sun is an important risk factor for the development of skin cancer. There are three main types of UV radiation: UV-A, UV-B and UV-C. UV-C radiation is absorbed by the atmosphere and does not reach the surface of the earth. UV-A and UV-B radiation reach the surface of the earth and can have a harmful effect on human health.

• UV-A Radiation: UV-a radiation penetrates deep into the skin and contributes to its aging, the appearance of wrinkles and age spots. It can also damage DNA of skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer.

• UV-B Radiation: UV-B radiation is more powerful than UV-A radiation. It is the main cause of sunburn and plays an important role in the development of skin cancer, especially basal cell and flat cell cancer. UV-B radiation can also cause eye damage, such as cataracts.

Exact mechanisms:

• DNA damage: UV radiation damages DNA of skin cells. If DNA damage is not restored, it can lead to mutations that increase the risk of skin cancer.
• Suppression of the immune system: UV radiation can suppress the immune system of the skin, which complicates the fight against cancer cells.
• Free radical formation: UV radiation can lead to the formation of free radicals in the skin, which damage cells and contribute to the development of skin cancer.

Risk factors:

• Excessive stay in the sun: People who spend a lot of time in the sun, especially during periods of maximum solar activity, are more at a higher risk of skin cancer.
• Bright leather: People with fair skin, blond hair and blue eyes are more susceptible to the damaging effects of UV radiation.
• Sun burns: People who often receive sunburns are more at a higher risk of skin cancer.
• Family history of skin cancer: People who have cases of skin cancer in the family are more at a higher risk of skin cancer.
• Using solariums: The use of solariums increases the risk of skin cancer, especially melanoma.

Prevention measures:

• Avoid staying in the sun during periods of maximum solar activity (from 10:00 to 16:00).
• Wear protective clothes (wide -brimmed hat, sunglasses, clothes with long sleeves).
• Use SPF sunscreen at least 30 and apply it again every two hours, especially after bathing or sweating.
• Avoid the use of solariums.
• Consider the skin regularly for new or changing moles.
• Contact the doctor if you find any suspicious formations on the skin.

Section 7: Electromagnetic fields and health

Electromagnetic fields (EMP) surround us everywhere-from natural sources, such as solar radiation and magnetic field of the Earth, to artificial sources, such as power lines, household appliances, mobile phones and Wi-Fi routers. The question of the effect of EMP on human health causes a lot of controversy and research. There are two main types of EMPs: low -frequency and high -frequency.

• Low -frequency EMP: Low -frequency EMPs are emitted by power lines, household appliances (hair dryers, microwaves, refrigerators) and electric wiring. The main mechanism of exposure to low -frequency EMPs on the body is the induction of electric currents in the tissues. Some studies associate the prolonged exposure to low -frequency EMPs with an increased risk of leukemia development in children, but the results of these studies are contradictory and require further confirmation. Other potential effects include sleep disturbances, headaches and increased fatigue, although the connection of these symptoms with EMP is not always unambiguous.

• High -frequency EMP: High-frequency EMPs are emitted by mobile phones, Wi-Fi routers, radio and TV TVs. The main mechanism of exposure to high -frequency EMP on the body is considered to be heated by tissues. The short -term effect of high -frequency EMP from a mobile phone can lead to a slight increase in temperature in the head area. Numerous studies studied the connection between the use of mobile phones and the development of brain cancer, but there was no convincing evidence of this connection. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies high -frequency EMP as “possible carcinogenic for a person”, based on limited data on increased risk of gliomas (brain tumors) in people who actively use mobile phones. Further research is necessary for a more accurate risk assessment.

Potential effects:

• Cancer: As mentioned above, the connection between EMP and Cancer is the subject of active research. There are limited data on increased risk of leukemia in children with prolonged exposure to low -frequency EMPs, as well as an increased risk of gliomas in people who actively use mobile phones.
• Neurological effects: Some studies associate the effect of EMP with headaches, sleep disturbances, memory worsening and concentration. However, these effects can be determined by other factors such as stress and electromagnetic hypersensitivity (a state in which people experience negative symptoms when exposed to EMP, although this connection is not confirmed by scientific).
• Reproductive effects: Some animal studies have shown that EMP exposure can have a negative effect on the reproductive system. However, the results of these studies are not always applicable to people.
• Cardiovascular effects: Although the direct relationship between EMP and cardiovascular diseases has not been proven, some studies suggest that a prolonged exposure to the EMP can affect the heart rhythm and blood pressure.

Precautions:

• Follow the safe distance from EMP sources: Try to stay at a distance from power lines, household appliances and other EMP sources.
• Limit the time of using a mobile phone: Use your mobile phone only if necessary and try to speak in the speakerphone or using a headset.
• Do not wear a mobile phone in your pocket: It is preferable to wear a mobile phone in a bag or backpack.
• Turn off Wi-Fi router at night: If you do not use Wi-Fi at night, turn off the router to reduce the effects of the EMP.
• Follow recommendations on the safe use of electrical appliances: Follow the instructions for the operation of electrical appliances and do not use faulty devices.

Section 8: Housing quality and health

The quality of the dwelling has a significant impact on human health. Factors, such as ventilation, humidity, lighting, the presence of mold and quality of building materials, can directly affect physical and mental well -being.

• Ventilation: Poor ventilation can lead to the accumulation of pollutants in the premises, such as volatile organic compounds (moos), dust, allergens and microorganisms. This can cause respiratory diseases, allergies and other health problems. The lack of fresh air can also lead to fatigue, headaches and a decrease in concentration.

• Humidity: Increased humidity in rooms can contribute to the growth of mold and fungi. Mold can cause allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory diseases. Too dry air can also be harmful to health, causing dry skin, irritation of the mucous membranes and exacerbation of respiratory diseases.

• Lighting: Insufficient lighting can lead to eye fatigue, headache and decrease in productivity. The disadvantage of natural light can also affect the mood and circus rhythms, which can lead to sleep and depression.

• Mold: Mold distinguishes disputes that can cause allergic reactions, asthma, respiratory infections and other health problems. Black mold is of particular danger (Stachybotrys) that can release toxins that cause serious diseases.

• Quality of building materials: Some building materials can distinguish harmful substances, such as formaldehyde, asbestos and radon. Formaldehyde can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, as well as increase the risk of cancer. Asbest can cause lung cancer and other diseases. Radon is a radioactive gas that can penetrate the soil houses and increase the risk of lung cancer.

• Air pollution indoors: Sources of air pollution in the premises include smoking, cooking on a gas stove, the use of fireplaces and furnaces, cleaning products and personal hygiene products. These sources can distinguish harmful substances, such as solid particles, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide and los.

Measures to improve the quality of the home:

• Provide good ventilation: Prevent the rooms regularly, especially after cooking, cleaning and using chemicals.
• Control humidity: Use air or humidifiers to maintain the optimal level of humidity in the rooms.
• Provide sufficient lighting: Use natural light, if possible and supplement it with artificial lighting to ensure a sufficient level of light illumination.
• Remove mold: If you find mold in your house, immediately remove it.
• Use safe building materials: During construction and repair, choose building materials that do not distinguish harmful substances.
• Limit the use of chemicals: Use cleaning products and personal hygiene products that do not contain harmful substances.
• Remove regularly in the house: Remove regularly in the house to remove dust and allergens.
• Check the presence of Radon: Carry out testing for Radon in your home, especially if you live in a area with a high level of Radon.

Section 9: Agroecology and Health

Agroecology, which considers agriculture as part of an integral ecosystem, has a significant impact on human health. Unlike intensive agriculture, which is often associated with the use of pesticides, fertilizers and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), agroecology promotes the production of healthy foods, maintaining biodiversity and improving the state of the environment.

• Healthy nutrition: Agroecological methods of agriculture, such as organic farming and permaculture, contribute to the production of foods rich in nutrients and not containing harmful remnants of pesticides and other chemicals. The use of organic food is associated with increased consumption of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, as well as with a decrease in the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

• Reducing the use of pesticides: Agroecology involves the use of alternative methods for combating pests, such as biological control, crop rotation and the use of sustainable plant varieties. This leads to a decrease in the use of pesticides that can have a harmful effect on human health, including cancer, disorders of the nervous system and reproductive function.

• Improving the quality of the soil: Agroecological methods of agriculture, such as the use of compost, manure and cover crops, contribute to the improvement of the quality of the soil and its fertility. Healthy soil contains more nutrients that are transmitted to plants, making them more nutritious and useful for human health.

• Conservation of biodiversity: Agroecology helps to preserve biodiversity, creating favorable conditions for the habitat of wild animals, insects and plants. Bio -eating plays an important role in maintaining the health of ecosystems and ensuring sustainable production of food.

• Improving the health of farmers: Agroecological methods of agriculture can improve the health of farmers, reducing their effects on harmful chemicals and creating more safe and healthy working conditions.

Advantages of agroecology for human health:

• Reducing the risk of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
• Increasing the consumption of nutrients and antioxidants.
• Reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases.
• Improving the health of farmers and rural communities.
• Preservation of biodiversity and sustainable production of food.

Section 10: Urban environment and health

The urban environment has a complex and multifaceted effect on human health. On the one hand, cities offer ample opportunities for education, employment, healthcare and cultural development. On the other hand, they are also characterized by high population density, air pollution and noise limited to access to green plantations and an unhealthy way of life, which can have a negative effect on health.

• Air pollution: Cities are the main sources of air pollution, which can cause respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The main air pollutants in cities are transport, industry and heating.

• Noise: A high noise level in cities can lead to stress, sleep disturbances, headaches and a decrease in productivity. The main sources of noise in cities are transport, construction and entertainment events.

• Limited access to green spaces: Limited access to parks, squares and other green spaces can negatively affect mental and physical health. Green spaces help reduce stress, improve mood, increase physical activity and strengthen social ties.

• Lack of physical activity: The urban environment can contribute to a sitting lifestyle. Many people work in offices and spend most of their time in the premises. The lack of physical activity increases the risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and other chronic diseases.

• Social isolation: Cities can be a place of social isolation, especially for the elderly, people with disabilities and low income people. Social isolation can lead to depression, anxiety and other problems with mental health.

• Inequality regarding health: In cities there is significant inequality regarding health. Low income people living in dysfunctional areas are at a greater risk of exposure to harmful environmental factors and have limited access to resources necessary to maintain health.

Measures to improve health in the urban environment:

• Reducing air and noise pollution: The introduction of environmentally friendly modes of transport, the development of public transport, the construction of noise -protective screens, regulation of the noise level.
• Increased access to green spaces: Creation of new parks and squares, landscaping of streets, arrangement of green roofs and vertical gardens.
• Promotion of physical activity: Creation of pedestrian and bicycle paths, organization of sports grounds and fitness centers, holding measures that contribute to physical activity.
• Strengthening social ties: Creation of public centers, organization of events for residents, support for social networks.
• Reducing inequality regarding health: Improving housing conditions, ensuring access to high -quality health care, creating opportunities for education and employment.
• Planning of the urban environment, taking into account health: Development of urban planning plans that take into account the needs of all population groups and contribute to the creation of a healthy and stable urban environment.