Environmental impact on human health

I. Atmospheric air and health:

1.1. The main atmospheric air pollutants and their sources:

Atmospheric air, being a vital resource, is subjected to constant influence of various pollutants who have a significant impact on human health. The main pollutants include:

Solid particles (PM): This is a complex mixture of the smallest particles, including dust, soot, smoke and aerosols. They are formed as a result of the burning of fossil fuel (in internal combustion engines, at power plants and in heating systems), industrial activities, construction work, agricultural activity (plowing, the use of fertilizers) and natural phenomena (forest fires, sandstorms). PM are divided into two main categories: PM10 (particles in size up to 10 micrometers) and PM2.5 (particles in size up to 2.5 micrometers). PM2.5 pose the greatest danger, as they can penetrate deep into the lungs and even into the blood.
Nitrogen oxides (Nox): Basically consist of nitrogen oxide (No) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). The main source of NOX is the burning of fossil fuel, especially in internal combustion engines (cars, trucks, aircraft) and power plants. No2 is a strong respiratory irritant.
Sulfur oxides (SOX): Mostly represented by sulfur dioxide (SO2). The main source of SO2 is the burning of fossil fuel containing sulfur, especially coal at power plants and in industrial processes. SO2 can also stand out with volcanic eruptions. SO2 causes respiratory tract irritation and contributes to the formation of acidic rains.
Ugric gas (CO): Colorless and smell gas formed with incomplete combustion of fuel. The main source of CO is the operation of internal combustion engines, especially in conditions of insufficient ventilation (for example, in garages). Co binds to hemoglobin in the blood, preventing the transfer of oxygen and causing oxygen starvation of the body.
Ozon (O3): Ozone in the stratosphere protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. However, the ozone formed in the squat layer of the atmosphere as a result of photochemical reactions between NOX and volatile organic compounds (VOCS) in the presence of sunlight is a pollutant. The main sources of VOCS are cars, industrial processes, solvents and paint. Squirrel ozone is a strong irritant of the respiratory tract and can aggravate respiratory diseases.
Flying organic compounds (VOCS): A large group of organic chemicals that easily evaporate into the atmosphere. Vocs sources include cars, industrial processes, solvents, paints, varnishes, cleaning products and even some plants. Some VOCS, such as benzene and formaldehyde, are carcinogens.
Heavy metals: Lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic and other heavy metals can enter the atmosphere as a result of industrial processes (for example, when smelting metals, burning coal), burning waste and using lead gasoline (in countries where it is still used). Heavy metals have a toxic effect and can accumulate in the body.
Allergens: Plant pollen, mold spores and other allergens present in atmospheric air can cause allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and bronchial asthma.

1.2. Mechanisms of exposure to pollutants on health:

Atmospheric air pollutants have a diverse effect on human health, affecting various organs and systems:

Respiratory system: Pollutants, such as PM, Ozone, Nox and SO2, irritate the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, causing inflammation, coughing, shortness of breath and exacerbation of respiratory diseases, such as bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD). Small particles (PM2.5) can penetrate deep into the lungs, damaging the alveoli and increasing the risk of developing lung cancer.
Cardiovascular system: Pollutants, especially PM2.5, can enter the bloodstream and cause vascular inflammation, an increase in blood coagulation and an increase in blood pressure. This increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial infarction, stroke and arrhythmia.
Nervous system: Some pollutants, such as heavy metals (lead, mercury) and PM2.5, can penetrate the brain and have a neurotoxic effect. This can lead to impaired cognitive functions, such as a decrease in memory and attention, as well as to the development of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Reproductive system: Atmospheric air pollutants, such as PM2.5 and VOCS, can have a negative impact on the reproductive system in both men and women. In women, this can lead to violations of the menstrual cycle, a decrease in fertility, premature birth and low birth weight. In men, this can lead to a decrease in sperm quality and impaired reproductive function.
Immune system: Atmospheric air pollutants can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infectious diseases. They can also enhance allergic reactions and contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases.
Cancer: Some atmospheric air pollutants, such as benzene, formaldehyde, asbestos and PM2.5, are carcinogens, that is, substances that can cause cancer. The prolonged exposure to these pollutants increases the risk of lung cancer, bladder cancer, leukemia and other types of cancer.

1.3. Groups of the population, most vulnerable to contaminated air:

Not all people are equally sensitive to contaminated air. Some groups of the population are especially vulnerable:

Children: Children are more vulnerable to polluted air, since their respiratory system is not yet fully developed, and they breathe faster than adults, absorbing more pollutants. Polluted air can slow down the growth of lungs in children and increase the risk of respiratory diseases such as bronchial asthma.
Elderly people: Older people often have concomitant diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and respiratory diseases that are aggravated by the effects of contaminated air.
People with chronic diseases: People with chronic respiratory diseases (bronchial asthma, COPD) and cardiovascular diseases are more sensitive to contaminated air.
Pregnant women: Polluted air can have a negative effect on the health of pregnant women and fetus, increasing the risk of premature birth, low weight at birth and congenital defects.
People living in areas with a high level of air pollution: People living near industrial enterprises, lively roads and in areas with a high level of air pollution are at a higher risk of developing diseases associated with air pollution.

1.4. Strategies for reducing the effects of polluted air on health:

There are various strategies aimed at reducing the effects of polluted air on human health:

Reducing emissions of pollutants: This includes the use of cleaner fuel types, the introduction of more effective fuel combustion technologies, the installation of filters and other devices for cleaning emissions in industrial enterprises, restricting transportation in cities, developing public transport and stimulating the use of bicycles and pedestrian walks.
Air quality monitoring: Constant air quality monitoring is necessary to identify pollution sources and evaluate the effectiveness of measures to reduce pollution.
Information of the population: It is important to inform the population about the quality of air and precautions that can be undertaken to protect their health during high levels of pollution.
Individual protection measures: During periods of high air pollution, it is recommended:
- Limit the time of stay on the street, especially in areas with a high level of pollution.
- Avoid intense physical exertion on the street.
- Use respirators (for example, N95) to protect the respiratory tract.
- Close windows and doors in the rooms and use air purifiers.
- Observe a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and sufficient sleep, to strengthen the immune system.
Development of “green” infrastructure: Planting trees and the creation of green zones in cities helps to improve the quality of air, absorbing pollutants and reducing the air temperature.

II. Water quality and health:

2.1. Sources of water pollution:

Water, another vital resource, is also polluted, which poses a serious threat to human health. The main sources of water pollution include:

Industrial wastewater: Industrial enterprises often dump wastewater containing various pollutants, such as heavy metals, organic chemicals, pesticides and radioactive substances into water bodies.
Agricultural drains: Agriculture is a major source of water pollution. Fertilizers, pesticides and livestock waste are washed off from the fields and fall into water bodies, polluting them with nitrates, phosphates, pesticides and bacteria.
Household wastewater: Household wastewater coming from residential buildings and enterprises contain organic substances, bacteria, viruses, detergents and other pollutants.
Waste landfills: Waste landfills can pollute groundwater, since rainwater passing through waste is washed out of them various pollutants.
Oil and oil products spills: Oil and oil products that occur during transportation, extraction and oil refining can pollute water bodies, damaging the aquatic ecosystem and threatening human health.
Radioactive pollution: Radioactive substances can fall into water bodies as a result of accidents at nuclear power plants, the burial of radioactive waste and the use of radioactive materials in industry and medicine.

2.2. Water pollutants and their impact on health:

Various water pollutants have a different effect on human health:

Pathogenic microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, parasites): Contaminated water containing pathogenic microorganisms can cause infectious diseases, such as cholera, typhoid, dysentery, hepatitis A and polio.
Nitrate: High concentrations of nitrates in drinking water can cause methemoglobinemia (“blue baby” syndrome) in infants, and also increase the risk of developing some types of cancer.
Heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic): Heavy metals have a toxic effect and can accumulate in the body, causing various diseases, such as damage to the nervous system, kidneys, liver and bones.
Pesticides: Pesticides can have a neurotoxic, carcinogenic and endocrine effect.
Organic chemicals: Many organic chemicals, such as benzene, formaldehyde and polychlorined bifeniles (PHB), are carcinogens.
Fluorides: High concentrations of fluoride in drinking water can cause fluorosis of teeth and bones.
Radioactive substances: Radioactive substances increase the risk of cancer.

2.3. Ways of exposure to contaminated water on the body:

Contaminated water can fall into the human body in various ways:

The use of contaminated drinking water: This is the main path of influence.
Bathing in polluted reservoirs: Pathogenic microorganisms and chemicals can penetrate the body through the skin and mucous membranes.
Eating products grown using contaminated water: Plants can accumulate pollutants from water used for watering.
Eating fish and seafood caught in contaminated reservoirs: Fish and seafood can accumulate pollutants from water.

2.4. Providing the population with safe drinking water:

Providing the population with safe drinking water is a priority. This is necessary:

Protection of water sources from pollution: This includes control over wastewater discharge, restricting the use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture, preventing oil and oil products and protection of water protection zones.
Water purification: Water should be cleaned of pollutants before it will be used for drinking. Water purification methods include filtering, disinfection (chlorination, ozoning, ultraviolet irradiation) and reverse osmosis.
Water quality monitoring: It is necessary to regularly check the quality of drinking water to make sure that it meets the established security standards.
Ensuring access to safe drinking water for all segments of the population: It is necessary to provide access to safe drinking water for all segments of the population, especially for poor and vulnerable groups.

III. Soil and health:

3.1. Sources of soil pollution:

The soil, being the basis for agricultural activity and the habitat of many organisms, is also polluted. The main sources of soil pollution include:

Industrial waste: Industrial enterprises can pollute the soil with heavy metals, organic chemicals and radioactive substances.
Agricultural chemicals: Fertilizers and pesticides used in agriculture can pollute the soil with nitrates, phosphates and pesticides.
Household waste: Landfills of household waste can pollute the soil with various pollutants, such as heavy metals, organic substances and pathogenic microorganisms.
Atmospheric precipitation: Atmospheric air pollutants, such as heavy metals and acid rains, can settle on the basis and pollute it.
Radioactive pollution: Radioactive substances can fall into the soil as a result of accidents at nuclear power plants, the burial of radioactive waste and the use of radioactive materials in industry and medicine.
Mining mining: Middle -wise mining can lead to soil pollution with heavy metals and other pollutants.

3.2. Soil pollutants and their effect on health:

Various soil pollutants have a different effect on human health:

Heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic): Heavy metals have a toxic effect and can accumulate in the body, causing various diseases, such as damage to the nervous system, kidneys, liver and bones.
Pesticides: Pesticides can have a neurotoxic, carcinogenic and endocrine effect.
Organic chemicals: Many organic chemicals, such as benzene, formaldehyde and polychlorined bifeniles (PHB), are carcinogens.
Pathogenic microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, parasites): Contaminated soil containing pathogenic microorganisms can cause infectious diseases, such as tetanus and helminthias.
Radioactive substances: Radioactive substances increase the risk of cancer.

3.3. Ways of exposure to polluted soil on the body:

Polluted soil can fall into the human body in various ways:

Eating for foods grown on polluted soil: Plants can accumulate pollutants from the soil.
Inhalation of dust containing pollutants: Soil pollutants can rise into the air with dust and fall into the lungs.
Direct contact with contaminated soil: Soil pollutants can penetrate the body through the skin.
Eating animal meat that feed on contaminated soil: Animals can accumulate pollutants from the soil.

3.4. Soil protection strategies from pollution and restoration of polluted territories:

To protect the soil from pollution and restoration of polluted areas, it is necessary:

Prevention of soil pollution: This includes control over the discharge of industrial waste, restricting the use of pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture, the correct disposal of household waste and the prevention of oil and oil products spills.
Restoring polluted territories: There are various methods for restoring polluted territories, such as reconciliation (use of plants for soil purification), biomediation (the use of microorganisms for soil purification) and chemical purification.
Soil quality monitoring: It is necessary to regularly check the quality of the soil in order to identify polluted territories and evaluate the effectiveness of measures to protect and restore the soil.
The use of stable agricultural management methods: The use of sustainable methods of agriculture, such as organic farming and agricultural production, helps reduce soil pollution and maintain its fertility.

IV. Noise and health:

4.1. Sources of noise pollution:

Noise pollution, often an underestimated environmental factor, also has a significant impact on human health. The main sources of noise pollution include:

Transport: Road, railway and air transport is one of the main sources of noise pollution in cities.
Industry: Industrial enterprises, especially those that use noisy equipment, can create a significant level of noise pollution.
Construction: Construction work, especially using heavy equipment, can create a high level of noise pollution.
Household noise: Household noise created by household appliances, audio systems, TVs and loud conversations can also have a negative effect on health.
Entertainment events: Concerts, festivals and other entertainment events can create a high level of noise pollution.

4.2. Mechanisms for the effects of noise on health:

Noise has a diverse effect on human health:

Hearing violation: Long -term exposure to high noise can lead to hearing impairment, up to complete deafness.
Cardiovascular diseases: Noise can increase blood pressure, increase heart rate and blood cholesterol, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as myocardial infarction and stroke.
Sleep violation: Noise can break the dream, causing insomnia, superficial sleep and frequent awakening. The lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, a decrease in performance and a deterioration in health in general.
Mental disorders: Noise can cause stress, anxiety, irritability and depression.
Violation of cognitive functions: Noise can worsen concentration, memory and learning.
Violation of children’s development: Noise can negatively affect the development of children, especially their cognitive functions and speech.

4.3. Groups of the population, most vulnerable to noise:

Not all people are equally sensitive to noise. Some groups of the population are especially vulnerable:

Children: Children are more vulnerable to noise, since their nervous system is not yet fully developed.
Elderly people: Older people often have concomitant diseases that are aggravated by noise.
People with hearing impairment: People with hearing impairment are more sensitive to noise.
People working in a noisy environment: People working at industrial enterprises, in construction and other noisy professions are at a higher risk of developing noise.
People living near noise sources: People living near airports, railways and lively roads are more at a higher risk of developing diseases associated with noise.

4.4. Strategies for reducing noise pollution and protection from its impact:

There are various strategies aimed at reducing noise pollution and protection against its impact:

Reducing noise from sources: This includes the use of less noisy vehicles, equipment and technologies, the construction of noise -protective barriers along roads and railways, limiting the time of noisy enterprises and construction sites.
City development planning: When planning urban development, it is necessary to take into account the factors of noise pollution and have residential buildings at a sufficient distance from noise sources.
Using noise -insulating materials: The use of soundproofing materials in the construction of houses and apartments helps reduce the noise level in the premises.
Individual protection measures: The use of headphones or Berusha helps to protect hearing from noise.
Noise regulation: It is necessary to establish norms and rules governing the noise level in various zones (residential, industrial, recreational).
Information of the population: It is important to inform the population about the dangers of noise and precautions that can be undertaken to protect their health.

V. Radiation and health:

5.1. Sources of ionizing radiation:

Ionizing radiation with high energy can damage the cells of the body and have a negative effect on health. Sources of ionizing radiation can be divided into natural and artificial:

Natural sources:
- Cosmic radiation: The radiation coming from the cosmos, mainly consisting of protons and alpha particles.
- Earth radiation: The radiation emitted by radioactive elements present in the earth’s crust, such as uranium, thorium and potassium-40.
- Radon: Radioactive gas formed during the breakdown of uranium in the soil and rocks. Radon can penetrate the buildings and accumulate in them.
Artificial sources:
- Medical radiation: The use of x -rays and radioactive isotopes for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
- Industrial irradiation: The use of radioactive sources in industry for quality control, sterilization and other goals.
- Nuclear power plants: Nuclear power plants are a potential source of radioactive pollution in case of accidents.
- Nuclear tests: Nuclear tests led to global radioactive pollution of the atmosphere and soil.

5.2. The mechanisms of exposure to ionizing radiation on health:

Ionizing radiation has a negative effect on health, damaging the cells of the body:

Direct DNA damage: Ionizing radiation can directly damage DNA, causing mutations that can lead to cancer.
Indirect DNA damage: Ionizing radiation can interact with water molecules in cells, forming free radicals that damage DNA and other cell structures.
Suppression of the immune system: Ionizing radiation can suppress the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infectious diseases and cancer.
Lazification of hematopoietic organs: Ionizing radiation can affect hematopoietic organs, such as bone marrow, which leads to a decrease in blood cells and leukemia development.
Cataract: The prolonged effect of ionizing radiation can lead to the development of cataracts.
Influence on the reproductive system: Ionizing radiation can have a negative effect on the reproductive system, causing infertility and congenital defects.

5.3. Types of consequences of the effects of ionizing radiation:

The consequences of the effects of ionizing radiation can be acute and distant:

Acute effects: Acute effects occur with high doses of irradiation in a short period of time. These include acute radiation disease, characterized by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding and suppression of the immune system.
Distant effects: Distant effects occur at low doses of irradiation for a long time. These include an increase in the risk of cancer (leukemia, thyroid cancer, lung cancer and other types of cancer), cataracts and genetic effects.

5.4. Protection measures from ionizing radiation:

To protect against ionizing radiation, it is necessary:

Minimize the time of stay near the sources of radiation: The less time a person is near the radiation source, the less he receives a dose.
Increase the distance from the radiation source: The dose of radiation decreases with an increase in the distance from the source.
Use shielding: Screening, such as the use of lead aprons in x -ray studies, helps to protect the body from ionizing radiation.
Measure the level of radon in residential premises: If the level of radon exceeds the permissible values, it is necessary to take measures to reduce it, such as improving ventilation.
Observe safety rules when working with radiation sources: People working with radiation sources must comply with strict security rules in order to minimize the risk of irradiation.
Inform the population about the risks associated with ionizing radiation: It is necessary to inform the population about the risks associated with ionizing radiation, and the precautions that can be undertaken to protect their health.

VI. Climate and health:

6.1. Climate changes and their consequences:

The climatic changes caused by the anthropogenic impact on the environment have an increasingly noticeable effect on human health. The main consequences of climatic changes include:

Improving air temperature: An increase in air temperature leads to an increase in the frequency and duration of periods of extreme heat, which can lead to heat strokes, dehydration and an increase in mortality, especially among the elderly and people with chronic diseases.
Changing the nature of precipitation: A change in the nature of precipitation leads to an increase in the frequency and intensity of droughts and floods. Droughts can lead to a lack of water and food, and floods can cause the spread of infectious diseases and water pollution.
Improving sea level: An increase in sea level leads to flooding of coastal territories, which can cause the movement of the population and pollution of drinking water.
Increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather phenomena: An increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather phenomena, such as hurricanes, typhoons and forest fires, can lead to injuries, deaths and destruction of infrastructure.
Change in the distribution of carriers of infectious diseases: Climate changes can lead to a change in the distribution of carriers of infectious diseases, such as mosquitoes and ticks, which increases the risk of diseases such as malaria, Denge’s fever and Lyme disease.
Increasing ozone concentration in the surface atmosphere: An increase in air temperature contributes to the formation of ozone in the surface layer of the atmosphere, which is a strong irritant of the respiratory tract and can aggravate respiratory diseases.

6.2. The mechanisms of exposure to climatic changes to health:

Climate changes have a diverse effect on human health:

Direct impact: Extreme heat, floods and hurricanes can directly lead to injuries, deaths and heat strokes.
Indirect impact: Climate changes can lead to a lack of water and food, the spread of infectious diseases and water pollution, which, in turn, has a negative effect on health.
Socio-economic impact: Climate changes can lead to the movement of the population, loss of work and a decrease in living standards, which has a negative impact on mental and physical health.

6.3. Groups of the population, most vulnerable to the effects of climatic changes:

Not all people are equally vulnerable to climatic changes. Some groups of the population are especially vulnerable:

Elderly people: Older people are more susceptible to the effects of extreme heat and other extreme weather phenomena.
Children: Children are more susceptible to the effects of infectious diseases and water pollution.
People with chronic diseases: People with chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and respiratory diseases, are more vulnerable to climatic changes.
Poor layers of the population: Poor segments of the population often do not have access to the resources necessary to protect against the effects of climatic changes.
Residents of coastal territories: Residents of coastal territories are more vulnerable to flooding and other consequences of increasing the sea level.

6.4. Strategies for adaptation to climatic changes and mitigating their consequences:

To protect human health from the effects of climatic changes, it is necessary:

Sitting the consequences of climatic changes: This includes a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, the use of renewable energy sources and increased energy efficiency.
Adaptation to climatic changes: This includes the development of action plans in emergency situations, the construction of dams and other structures to protect against floods, improve the healthcare system and ensure access to safe drinking water.
Strengthening health systems: It is necessary to strengthen the healthcare systems so that they can cope with the consequences of climatic changes, such as an increase in the frequency of thermal blows, infectious diseases and injuries.
Information of the population: It is important to inform the population about the risks associated with climatic changes, and the precautions that can be undertaken to protect your health.
International cooperation: International cooperation is necessary to solve the problem of climatic changes and protection of human health.

VII. Urban environment and health:

7.1. Urban environmental factors affecting health:

The urban environment has a complex and multifaceted effect on human health. The main factors of the urban environment affecting health include:

Air pollution: Cities are often characterized by a high level of air pollution, which can lead to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases and lung cancer.
Noise pollution: Cities are often characterized by a high level of noise pollution, which can lead to hearing impairment, cardiovascular diseases and mental disorders.
Limited access to green spaces: Cities are often characterized by limited access to green spaces, which can negatively affect mental health and physical activity.
Lack of physical activity: Cities often create conditions that contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, which increases the risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes.
Social isolation: Cities can contribute to social insulation, which negatively affects mental health.
Overpopulation: Overpopulation in cities can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases and increase stress.
Insecurity: Safe safety in cities, such as a high level of crime, can negatively affect mental health and physical activity.
Availability of medical care: The availability of medical care in cities can be uneven, which makes it difficult to obtain the necessary medical care for some segments of the population.

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Environmental impact on human health

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