As polluted air affects children: Response to scientists

Scientists have analyzed nine thousand teenagers

Photo: Vitalikradko/Depositphotos

The detrimental effects of polluted air in early childhood can have long -term health effects – already in adolescence, the risk of disease is increased by one third.

British scientists came to this conclusion, according to the study, Posted in Scientific Reposts, informs The Guardian.

The team of scientists at the University College of London analyzed the data of nine thousand teenagers who were born between 2000 and 2002. Scientists have tracked the impact on their health different types of air pollutants, including microscopic solids in the air and nitric oxide.

The results showed that teenagers who lived in areas with polluted air in early childhood (from two to four years) were more likely to report about health problems at 17 years of age.

According to the leading author of the study of Gergo Barania, tiny particles in polluted air are able to penetrate the respiratory tract, and from there – into the blood and brain. This mechanism is associated with why air can cause health problems.

In addition, scientists have found that teenagers from ethnic minorities and poor areas were more likely to worsen health and chronic diseases, as they usually undergo a higher level of air pollution.

Scientists believe that the age of three to six months is sensitive to the harmful effects of polluted air. The study authors say that in future work will determine what specific disorders or health problems are associated with a harmful environment at an early age.

Recall, scientists Countedthat polluted air causes more than 100,000 people in Europe every year.