The effect of air pollution on the health of the lungs

Section 1: Composition and sources of air pollution

Air pollution is a complex mixture of solid particles, liquid drops and gases, which are in a suspended state in the atmosphere. Its composition varies depending on the region, time of year and prevailing sources. Understanding the components and their origin is necessary to assess risks for the health of the lungs.

1.1 The main air pollutants:

Solid particles (PM): PM are divided into PM10 (particles with a diameter of up to 10 micrometers) and PM2.5 (particles with a diameter of up to 2.5 micrometers). Small particles (PM2.5) pose the greatest threat, since they can penetrate deeper into the lungs and even the bloodstream. PM consist of various substances, including:
- Soot: It is formed as a result of incomplete combustion of fossil fuel, biomass and garbage.
- Dust: Mineral particles raised by the wind from roads, construction sites and agricultural land.
- Metals: Heavy metals, such as lead, cadmium and mercury formed as a result of industrial processes.
- Organic compounds: Complex molecules formed as a result of combustion and evaporation of solvents and fuel.
- Biological aerosols: Pollen, spores of mold, bacteria and viruses.
Ozon (O3): In the troposphere (lower layer of the atmosphere), ozone is a secondary pollutant formed as a result of chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOX) and volatile organic compounds (VOCS) in the presence of sunlight.
Nitrogen oxides (Nox): Basically represented by nitrogen oxide (No) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). They are formed as a result of the combustion of fossil fuel, especially in automobile engines and power plants.
Sulfur dioxide (SO2): It is formed as a result of the burning of fossil fuel containing sulfur, for example, coal and fuel oil. It is also distinguished with volcanic eruptions and some industrial processes.
Carbon monoxide (CO): Colorless, not smell of gas, formed as a result of incomplete combustion. The main source is transport, especially old cars with faulty catalytic neutralizers.
Flying organic compounds (VOCS): A wide class of organic chemicals that evaporate in the air at room temperature. Sources include gasoline, solvents, paints, varnishes, cleaning products and industrial processes.

1.2 sources of air pollution:

Sources of air pollution can be classified as anthropogenic (caused by human activities) and natural.

Anthropogenic sources:
- Transport: Cars, trucks, buses, aircraft and trains are the main sources of NOX, PM, CO and VOCS.
- Industry: Industrial enterprises throw various pollutants into the air, including PM, SO2, NOX, heavy metals and VOCS.
- Energy: Power plants operating on fossil fuel are large sources of SO2, NOX and PM.
- Agriculture: Agricultural practices, such as fertilizer and burning crop residues, lead to ammonia emissions (NH3), PM and other pollutants.
- Household heating and cooking: The use of solid fuel (firewood, coal, manure) for heating and cooking in houses, especially in developing countries, is a significant source of PM and CO.
Natural sources:
- Volcanoes: Volcanic eruptions are thrown into the atmosphere of SO2, PM and other gases.
- Forest fires: Forest fires are a large source of PM, CO and other pollutants.
- Dusty storms: Dusty storms lift large quantities of dust and mineral particles into the air.
- Biological sources: Plants and microorganisms secrete VOCS, pollen and disputes.
- Sea spray: Sea splashes carry salt and other sea particles to the air.

1.3 Geographical and meteorological factors:

The concentration of air pollutants is influenced by geographical and meteorological factors.

Terrain: Mountains and valleys can contribute to the accumulation of pollutants, limiting their dispersion.
Wind: The wind can carry pollutants over long distances, as well as promote their dispersion.
Temperature: High temperature contributes to the formation of ozone. Inversions of temperature (when warm air delays cold air at the surface of the earth) can lead to the accumulation of pollutants near the Earth.
Humidity: Humidity affects the chemical reactions occurring in the atmosphere, and the size and composition of PM.
Solar radiation: Solar radiation is necessary for the formation of ozone.

Section 2: Mechanisms of exposure to air pollution on the lungs

Air pollution has a complex and multifaceted effect on the lungs, affecting the structure and function of the respiratory tract and alveoli. Various components of air pollution act in various mechanisms, leading to inflammation, oxidative stress and tissue damage.

2.1 exposure to solid particles (PM):

PM deposit in the respiratory tract: The size of the particles determines the depth of their penetration into the respiratory tract. Large particles (PM10) are besieged in the upper respiratory tract (nose, sip, trachea), causing irritation and coughing. Small particles (PM2.5) can penetrate deeper into the lungs, reaching bronchiol and alveoli. Ultradisperse particles (less than 0.1 micrometers) can even enter the bloodstream.
Inflammation of the respiratory tract: Picture PM in the respiratory tract causes an inflammatory reaction. The cells of the immune system (macrophages, neutrophils) are activated and released inflammatory mediators (cytokines, chemokins), such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Interleukin-8 (IL-8) and the Alpha tumor necrosis factor (TNF -α). These mediators attract more immune cells to the lungs, increasing inflammation.
Oxidizing stress: PM, especially soot and particles containing metals, can generate free radicals and other oxidizers. Oxidative stress occurs when the balance between oxidizing agents and antioxidants is disturbed in favor of oxidizing agents. Oxidative stress damages lung cells, including epithelial cells, alveolar macrophages and endothelial cells.
Damage to epithelial cells: Epithelial cells lining the respiratory tract are the first barrier against external influences. PM is damaged by epithelial cells, violating their structure and function. This leads to an increase in the permeability of the epithelial barrier, which facilitates the penetration of allergens, pathogens and other pollutants into the lungs.
Violation of mucociliary clearance: Mucociliary clearance is a mechanism with which the lungs remove mucus and particles captured in it. PM can violate the mucociliary clearance, damaging the cilia of epithelial cells and changing the composition of the mucus. This leads to the accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract and an increase in the risk of infections.
Alveolar damage: PM, reaching alveoli, can damage alveolar macrophages and alveolar epithelial cells. Alveolar macrophages absorb PM, but with a high PM concentration, they can become overloaded and release inflammatory mediators. Damage to alveolar epithelial cells leads to disruption of gas exchange and the development of fibrosis.
Changing the structure of the lungs: The chronic effect of PM can lead to a change in the structure of the lungs, including thickening of the walls of the respiratory tract, an increase in the number of gorgeous cells (which produce mucus) and the development of emphysema (destruction of alveoli).

2.2 Ozone exposure (O3):

Oxidation of lipids and proteins: Ozone is a strong oxidizing agent that can damage lipids and proteins that make up cell membranes and other lung structures.
Inflammation of the respiratory tract: Ozone causes an inflammatory reaction in the respiratory tract, similar to the one caused by PM. It activates the cells of the immune system and stimulates the release of inflammatory mediators.
Damage to epithelial cells: Ozone damages epithelial cells lining the respiratory tract, increasing their permeability and making them more susceptible to infections.
Bronchoconstriction: Ozone can cause bronchonkontrination (narrowing of the respiratory tract), which complicates breathing.
Increased sensitivity to allergens: Ozone can increase the sensitivity of the respiratory tract to allergens, which can lead to exacerbations of asthma.

2.3 Exposure of nitrogen oxides (NOX):

Righting of the respiratory tract: NOX, especially NO2, irritate the respiratory tract, causing cough, shortness of breath and chest pain.
Inflammation of the respiratory tract: NOX cause an inflammatory reaction in the respiratory tract, similar to the one that is caused by PM and ozone.
Bronchoconstriction: NOX can cause bronchonkanism, especially in people with asthma.
Increased susceptibility to infections: NOX can damage epithelial cells lining the respiratory tract, and reduce their ability to protect against infections.

2.4 Effect of sulfur dioxide (SO2):

Righting of the respiratory tract: SO2 irritates the respiratory tract, causing cough, shortness of breath and chest pain.
Bronchoconstriction: SO2 is a powerful bronchodrower, especially in people with asthma.
Strengthening the effects of PM: SO2 can be adsorbed on PM, increasing their toxicity and the ability to penetrate deeper into the lungs.

2.5 Exposure of carbon monoxide (CO):

Reducing the oxygen container of blood: Co is associated with hemoglobin in the blood, forming carboxhymoglobin (COHB). COHB cannot tolerate oxygen, which leads to a decrease in the oxygen container of blood.
Hypoxia: A decrease in the oxygen container of blood leads to hypoxia (lack of oxygen in tissues). Hypoxia can cause various symptoms, including headache, dizziness, nausea and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, hypoxia can lead to death.
The aggravation of cardiovascular diseases: Co can aggravate cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary heart disease.

2.6 Effect of volatile organic compounds (VOCS):

Righting of the respiratory tract: Some VOCS irritate the respiratory tract, causing cough, shortness of breath and sore throat.
Inflammation of the respiratory tract: Some VOCS can cause an inflammatory reaction in the respiratory tract.
Carcinogenicity: Some VOCS, such as benzene and formaldehyde, are carcinogens.

Section 3: Lung diseases associated with air pollution

Air pollution is a significant risk factor for the development and exacerbation of various lung diseases, from respiratory infections to chronic obstructive diseases and lung cancer.

3.1 acute respiratory infections (Ori):

Increase in the incidence of Or: Air pollution weakens the immune system and damages epithelial cells lining the respiratory tract, making people more susceptible to AH, such as flu, pneumonia and bronchiolite.
Weighting of the course of Ori: Air pollution can weight the flow of ARI, leading to more serious symptoms, hospitalization and death.
Especially vulnerable groups: Children, elderly people and people with chronic lung diseases and hearts are especially vulnerable to the effects of air pollution on Ori.

3.2 asthma:

Astma development: Air pollution, especially in childhood, can contribute to the development of asthma. PM2.5, Ozone and NOX are the main risk factors.
ASTMA exacerbations: Air pollution can cause exacerbations of asthma, characterized by increased cough, shortness of breath, wheezing and compression in the chest.
Increasing the need for drugs: People with asthma, living in areas with a high level of air pollution, often need more drugs to control their symptoms.
Hospitalizations and mortality: Exacerbations of asthma caused by air pollution can lead to hospitalization and even death.

3.3 chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD):

HOLD development: Long -term exposure to air pollution, especially PM2.5, is a risk factor for the development of COPD, a chronic lung disease, characterized by restriction of the air flow.
Acceleration of progression of COPD: Air pollution can accelerate the progression of COPD, leading to a deterioration in the function of the lungs and an increase in symptoms.
Walker Film: Air pollution can cause exacerbations of COPD, characterized by increased coughing, shortness of breath and an increase in the amount of sputum.
Hospitalizations and mortality: The exacerbations of COPD caused by air pollution can lead to hospitalization and death.

3.4 lung cancer:

Increase in the risk of lung cancer: Long -term exposure to air pollution, especially PM2.5, is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.
Classification PM2.5 as a carcinogen: The International Cancer Research Agency classifies PM2.5 as a carcinogen for humans.
Mechanisms of carcinogenicity: PM2.5 can damage DNA and cause mutations that can lead to cancer.

3.5 other lung diseases:

Fibrosis of the lungs: Long -term exposure to air pollution can contribute to the development of fibrosis of the lungs, chronic disease characterized by scarring of lung tissue.
MukoviScidoz: Air pollution can aggravate the symptoms of cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that affects the lungs and other organs.
Bronchiolitis that enlargement: Air pollution is associated with the development of bronchiolite of a obliterating, rare disease that affects the small respiratory tract.

Section 4: High risk groups

Not all people are equally vulnerable to the negative effects of air pollution on the lungs. Some groups of the population are more highly risk due to factors associated with age, health or professional activity.

4.1 Children:

Underdeveloped lungs: Light children are in the development stage and are more susceptible to damage caused by air pollution.
Higher respiratory rate: Children breathe faster than adults, and therefore inhale more air per kilogram of body weight, which increases their effects of pollutants.
Spending more time on the street: Children usually spend more time on the street, engaged in physical activity, which increases their effects of air pollution.
Immune system: The immune system of children is not yet fully developed, which makes them more susceptible to respiratory infections caused by air pollution.

4.2 Elderly people:

Reducing the function of the lungs: With age, the function of the lungs decreases, which makes elderly people more vulnerable to air pollution.
Chronic diseases: Older people often suffer from chronic lung and heart diseases, which can aggravate air pollution.
Weakened immune system: The immune system of the elderly is weakened, which makes them more susceptible to respiratory infections.

4.3 people with chronic lung diseases:

Asthma: People with asthma are especially sensitive to air pollution, which can cause exacerbations of their disease.
Hobble: People with COPD are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution, which can accelerate the progression of their disease and cause exacerbations.
Other lung diseases: People with other lung diseases, such as lung fibrosis and cystic fibrosis, are also more vulnerable to air pollution.

4.4 People with cardiovascular diseases:

Increasing the risk of cardiovascular events: Air pollution can increase the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes.
Inflammation: Air pollution can cause inflammation, which can damage the blood vessels.
Oxidizing stress: Air pollution can cause oxidative stress, which can damage blood vessels.

4.5 people who are exposed to air pollution at work:

Construction workers: Construction workers are exposed to high concentrations of dust and other pollutants.
Drivers of trucks and buses: Drivers of trucks and buses are exposed to high exhaust gas concentrations.
Shakhters: Miners are exposed to high concentrations of dust and other pollutants.
Agricultural workers: Agricultural workers are exposed to high concentrations of pesticides and other chemicals.

4.6 people living in areas with a high level of air pollution:

City areas: Urban areas usually have a higher level of air pollution than rural areas.
Areas near industrial enterprises: Areas near industrial enterprises often have a higher level of air pollution.
Areas with intensive automobile traffic: Areas with intensive automobile traffic often have a higher level of air pollution.

4.7 people with low socio-economic status:

Accommodation in areas with a high level of air pollution: People with low socio-economic status often live in areas with a high level of air pollution.
Limited medical care access: People with low socio-economic status may have limited access to medical care, which complicates the diagnosis and treatment of lung diseases caused by air pollution.
Bad food: People with low socio-economic status can have poor nutrition, which weakens their immune system and makes them more vulnerable to air pollution.

Section 5: Methods for assessing the effects of air pollution on the health of the lungs

Assessment of the effects of air pollution on the health of the lungs is a difficult task requiring the use of various methods and approaches. These methods allow you to evaluate both short -term and long -term effects of air pollution on the function of the lungs and the incidence of respiratory diseases.

5.1 Epidemiological studies:

Studies of temporary series: These studies analyze the relationship between daily fluctuations in the levels of air pollution and the daily number of hospitalizations, appeals to the ambulance and deaths associated with respiratory diseases.
Coirs: These studies monitor a group of people for a long time in order to evaluate the relationship between the long -term effect of air pollution and the risk of the development of respiratory diseases.
Research “Case-Control”: These studies compare people with a respiratory disease (cases) with people without illness (control) to determine whether the effects of air pollution with an increased risk of the disease are associated.

5.2 Clinical research:

Light function research: These studies measure the function of the lungs (for example, the volume of forced exhalation in the first second [FEV1] and forced life tank [FVC]) in people who have exposed to air pollution in order to evaluate its effect on the function of the lungs.
Studies of biomarkers: These studies measure the level of biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress and DNA damage in biological samples (for example, blood, urine, sputum) of people who are exposed to air pollution in order to evaluate its effect on the health of the lungs.
Bronchoscopy research: These studies include bronchoscopy (introducing a thin tube with a camera into the respiratory tract) to examine the respiratory tract and collect tissue samples for analysis.

5.3 Exact modeling:

Models of dispersion of pollutants: These models are used to assess the concentration of air pollutants in various places based on emissions, meteorological conditions and terrain.
Health exposure models: These models are used to assess the number of cases of respiratory diseases associated with air pollution, based on data on the concentration of pollutants, the population and the dose-response functions.

5.4 Air pollution monitoring systems:

Stationary monitoring stations: These stations measure the concentration of air pollutants in fixed places.
Mobile monitoring stations: These stations measure the concentration of air pollutants in different places, moving along a certain route.
Satellites: Satellites can be used to monitor the concentration of some air pollutants, such as PM2.5 and ozone, in large territories.

5.5 Assessment of individual impact:

Personal monitors: Personal monitors wear people to measure their individual influence of air pollutants over a certain period of time.
Questionnaires: Questionnaires can be used to collect information about the activities of people, time spent on the street, and the effects of air pollutants in various places.

Section 6: Measures to reduce the effects of air pollution on the health of the lungs

A decrease in the effects of air pollution on the health of the lungs requires an integrated approach, including measures at the state, local and individual levels. These measures are aimed at reducing the emissions of pollutants, improving the quality of air in the premises and protecting people from the effects of air pollution.

6.1 State measures:

Tighten air quality standards: Governments should establish strict air quality standards based on scientific data on the influence of pollutants on health.
Control of emissions from industrial sources: Governments must require industrial enterprises to use advanced technologies to control the emissions of pollutants.
Stimulating the use of renewable energy sources: Governments should stimulate the use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy in order to reduce dependence on fossil fuel.
Support for public transport: Governments must support the development and use of public transport in order to reduce the number of cars on the roads.
Promoting the use of environmentally friendly vehicles: Governments should stimulate the use of environmentally friendly vehicles, such as electric cars and hybrid cars.
Biomass burning regulation: Governments must regulate the burning of biomass in order to reduce PM2.5 emissions and other pollutants.
Landscaping of cities: Governments should encourage the landscaping of cities, planting trees and creating parks to improve air quality.
Information of the population about air pollution: Governments must inform the population about air pollution levels and how to protect themselves from its influence.

6.2 Local measures:

Restriction of car traffic in cities: Local authorities can limit the movement of cars in cities to reduce air pollution.
Creating low -level zones: Local authorities can create zones with a low level of emissions, in which only vehicles with a low level of emissions are allowed.
Promotion of walking and riding a bicycle: Local authorities can encourage walking and cycling, creating pedestrian and bicycle paths.
Improving public transport: Local authorities can improve public transport, making it more affordable and convenient.
Regulation of construction sites: Local authorities must regulate construction sites in order to reduce dust emissions.
Landscaping of areas: Local authorities should encourage the landscaping of areas, planting trees and creating parks.
Information of the population about air pollution: Local authorities must inform the population about the levels of air pollution and how to protect themselves from its influence.

6.3 Individual measures:

Air quality monitoring: Use applications or websites to monitor the quality of air in your area.
Restriction of the time spent on the street on days with a high level of air pollution: Try to spend less time on the street on days with a high level of air pollution, especially during intense physical exertion.
Avoiding places with intensive automobile traffic: Avoid places with intense automobile traffic, such as intersections and bus stops.
Using respirators: If you are forced to be on the street on days with a high level of air pollution, use a respirator, for example, N95.
Improving the quality of air in the premises: Protect the rooms regularly, use air purifiers and avoid smoking in the rooms.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises and sufficient sleep to strengthen your immune system.
Vaccination: Regularly vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcal infection to reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
Consultation with a doctor: If you have lung diseases, consult your doctor about how to protect yourself from the effects of air pollution.
Using public transport, walking and cycling: If possible, use public transport, walk or ride a bicycle instead of a car.
The choice of environmentally friendly products: Choose environmentally friendly products, such as detergents and paints to reduce VOCS emissions.
Energy savings: Save energy by turning off the light and electrical appliances when they are not used to reduce the consumption of fossil fuel.
Support for initiatives to reduce air pollution: Maintain initiatives to reduce air pollution at local, national and international levels.

Section 7: Future research areas

Further research is necessary for a deeper understanding of the complex interaction between air pollution and lung health. Below are some key areas for future research.

Exact mechanisms: Further studies are needed to clarify the exact mechanisms by which various air pollutants affect the health of the lungs at the molecular and cellular levels. This includes the study of the role of various inflammatory mediators, oxidative stress and DNA damage.
Vulnerable groups: More research is needed to determine the factors that some groups of the population are more vulnerable to air pollution on the health of the lungs. This includes the study of genetic factors, state of health and lifestyle.
Exposure to ultradisperse particles: More studies are needed to assess the effects of ultradispersed particles (less than 0.1 micrometer) on the health of the lungs, since they can penetrate deeper into the lungs and even blood flow.
Interaction of pollutants: More research is needed to assess the interaction of various air pollutants and their combined effects on the health of the lungs.
The effectiveness of measures to reduce air pollution: More research is needed to assess the effectiveness of various measures to reduce air pollution in improving the health of the lungs. This includes the study of the effects of various political measures, technological innovations and changes in behavior to air pollution levels and the incidence of respiratory diseases.
The impact of climate change: More research is needed to assess the effects of climate change on air pollution and lung health. This includes the study of the effects of increasing temperature, changes in precipitation and increased extreme weather phenomena on the concentration of pollutants and the spread of respiratory diseases.
Development of new monitoring technologies: It is necessary to develop new and more advanced technologies for monitoring air pollution, such as inexpensive sensors and satellite systems, to obtain more accurate and complete data on the levels of air pollution in various places.
Development of new treatment methods: It is necessary to develop new methods of treating lung diseases caused by air pollution, such as drugs that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
The role of microbioma: It is necessary to investigate the role of the microbioma of the lungs in response to the effects of air pollution and develop a microbioma modulation strategies to increase the resistance of the lungs.
Forecasting and early warning: The development of forecasting and early warning systems for informing the population about the impending episodes of air pollution, allowing to take preventive measures.

In conclusion, air pollution poses a serious threat to the health of the lungs, causing a wide range of respiratory diseases and aggravating existing conditions. An integrated approach, including state measures, local initiatives and individual actions, is necessary to reduce the impact of air pollution and protect public health. Further research is necessary for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of influence, the identification of vulnerable groups of the population and the development of effective strategies for mitigating the consequences. Taking measures is now critical for ensuring clean air and healthy lungs for everyone.