Air pollution can be a serious risk to health. The impact of poor air quality on a person’s health depends on the length of exposure, pollution level, and their overall health. Exposure to air pollution can worsen existing health problems like heart and lung diseases. It can also increase the risk of developing chronic illness and cancer.
Symptoms of exposure: Outdoor air pollution can affect the lungs, heart, throat and eyes. Symptoms can include chest pain, coughing, digestive issues, fever, fatigue, sneezing, shortness of breath, throat irritation and watery eyes.
Cardiovascular health impacts: Poor air quality can exacerbate and lead to serious heart problems such as heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure (hypertension) and coronary artery disease
Respiratory health impacts: Breathing in polluted air can cause or worsen lung issues including asthma, including more frequent or severe attacks, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and respiratory allergies.
Long-term health risks
Long-term exposure to polluted air can increase the risk of cancers, chronic illnesses like diabetes and obesity, Reproductive, neurological, and immune system disorders, and can hurt fetal development and limit lung function in childhood.
Learn more about health risks of air pollution
- CDC, About Air Quality
- American Lung Association, Particle Pollution
Vulnerable populations
Children: Exposure can lead to pneumonia, asthma, and cognitive issues- Older Adults: Increased risk of neurological disorders like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and dementias.
- Pregnant People: Exposure can lead to low birth weight, stillbirth, and miscarriage
- Individuals with Pre-existing Conditions: Those with cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, diabetes, or children with asthma are more susceptible.
- People on Certain Medications: Some medications can make people more vulnerable to respiratory distress.
- People who work outdoors face risk from exposure to air pollution, particularly if their work is strenuous.
- People who have lower incomes or live in neighborhoods near other sources of pollution
Children: Exposure can lead to pneumonia, asthma, and cognitive issuesLearn more about environmental justice and who is at risk:
- American Lung Association, Who is Most Affected by Outdoor Air Pollution
Last modified: November 23, 2024
