Air pollution affects everyone, killing millions worldwide every year. However, a study suggests that some groups of people may be more vulnerable to the harmful effects of air pollution than others. It has been proven that children, elderly and pregnant women face greater disadvantages from air pollution.
China is not new to be facing high air pollution levels, even crossing the danger mark.
In a report posted on Tuesday, November 6, the World Health Organization warned that exposure to toxic air both indoors and outdoors kills some 600,000 children under the age of 15 every year. According to health experts, while most children may not be affected by short-term peaks in air pollution, some individuals like those children with existing heart or lung conditions may experience increased symptoms.
These are the worst conditions children may get when exposed to high levels of air pollution:
Asthma
Young adults and children with conditions like asthma are more likely to be affected by air pollution as per Asthma UK, as they have faster breathing rates and that their lungs are still developing. Children living in a location with high levels of air pollutants increases their risk of reduced lung function when they become adults. As a long term, for children with no underlying condtions, air pollution may cause asthma.
Lung Development
Air pollution limits the children's ability to develop their lungs and its function fully. According to studies, children aged between 8-10 years old and who live in polluted areas, have 10 percent less lung capacity compared to others.
Obesity and Diabetes
Researchers found out that children aged 8-15 who were constantly exposed to higher levels of air pollution had lower insulin sensitivity. These same children were found to have decline beta-cell function and had higher BMI at age 18.
Autism
A study published in the journal Environment International warned that air pollution increases risk on children's autism spectrum by up to 78 percent. "The developing brains of young children are more vulnerable to toxic exposures in the environment and several studies have suggested this could impact brain function and the immune system," Zhiling Guo, from Chinese Academy of Sciences, said.
