Environmental Literature

Air pollution is an issue that affects everyone, and it is essential to understand its health risks.
Firstly, air pollution can cause respiratory illnesses such as asthma, and bronchitis. This is
because the tiny particles in polluted air can negatively affect the airways in our lungs. In fact,
according to the WHO, air pollution is responsible for over 4 million deaths yearly due to
respiratory illnesses.
Secondly, air pollution can also lead to heart attacks and strokes. When we breathe in polluted
air, it can cause inflammation in the blood vessels, leading to plaque buildup. This can increase
the risk of heart attacks and strokes. A study conducted in China found that for every 10
micrograms per cubic meter increase in air pollution, there was a 0.3% increase in the risk of
death due to heart disease.
Finally, air pollution has also been linked to cancer. The tiny particles in polluted air can
penetrate our lungs and even enter our bloodstream. This can cause genetic mutations and
damage our cells, leading to cancer. In fact, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has
classified air pollution as a Group 1 carcinogen, which means that it is known to cause cancer in
humans.
So, we should reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and transition to cleaner energy sources such as
solar and wind power. We can also invest in public transportation systems and encourage people
to use public transit instead of driving. Additionally, we can improve indoor air quality by using
air filters and reducing our exposure to indoor pollutants.

In conclusion, air pollution is a severe public health issue that affects millions of people every
year. We must take action to reduce our emissions and implement strategies to mitigate the
health risks associated with air pollution.