The Outdoor Environment
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Accepted version
Accepted version
Author(s)
Fuertes, Elaine
Brauer, Mike
Type
Chapter
Abstract
Air pollution levels continue to be high worldwide, vary greatly within and between countries, and contribute to a substantial burden of disease. There is convincing evidence that long-term exposure to air pollution adversely affects numerous health outcomes. This chapter presents the recent and growing epidemiological evidence for its effect on respiratory health, focusing on asthma and lung function. Further research should prioritise the pollutant mixtures most detrimental to health and identify the most appropriate health protection measures. Respiratory health is also influenced by outdoor pollen and mould exposures, which are not commonly monitored or regulated by standards. Climate change and interactions with air pollutants influence the growing pattern of outdoor allergens, affecting allergic and asthmatic symptom onset, duration and severity. These changes occur gradually but can result in acute outbreaks of disease, such as thunderstorm-related asthma. While waiting for the implementation of effective controls, there are some limited actions individuals can take to reduce their exposure to air pollution and outdoor allergens.
Date Issued
2020-11-01
Citation
Occupational and Environmental Lung Disease (ERS Monograph), 2020, pp.301-316
ISBN
9781849841245
Publisher
European Respiratory Society
Start Page
301
End Page
316
Journal / Book Title
Occupational and Environmental Lung Disease (ERS Monograph)
Copyright Statement
Copyright the authors. This is an author-submitted, peer-reviewed version of a manuscript that has been accepted for publication in the ERS Monograph, prior to copy-editing, formatting and typesetting. This version of the manuscript may not be duplicated or reproduced without prior permission from the copyright owner, the European Respiratory Society. The publisher is not responsible or liable for any errors or omissions in this version of the manuscript or in any version derived from it by any other parties.
Sponsor
Imperial College London