Longitudinal cohort study reveals reduced lung function and increased asthma rates in children exposed to air pollution.
Key Points
Children exposed to high air pollution showed a 7.5% reduction in lung function for every 10 µg/m³ increase in PM2.5 levels, indicating significant adverse effects on respiratory health.
The prevalence of asthma was 28% higher in children living in high-pollution areas, resulting in more frequent respiratory symptoms like wheezing and coughing.
Using spirometry and regression analysis, the study modeled the impact of air pollutants like NO2 and PM2.5 on pediatric lung capacity over five years.
These findings underscore the urgent need for policy interventions designed to reduce air pollution levels and protect children's health.