We already know that air pollution can worsen many health conditions — and now, researchers are looking closely at its impact on lower respiratory infections (LRIs) like pneumonia, bronchitis, and chest infections. These illnesses are increasing pressure on hospitals, especially in the UK, where LRI-related admissions rose by 15% between 1999 and 2019.
A new study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health tracked nearly 4 million adults in Catalonia over five years. The findings? People living in areas with higher air pollution had a much greater risk of being hospitalized for LRIs. Men over 65 with high blood pressure living in the most polluted neighbourhoods were 50% more likely to be admitted to hospitals with these infections compared to those in cleaner areas.
Pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (from diesel and gas burning) and delicate particulate matter were linked to worse health outcomes. This builds on previous research, including an extensive UK and Danish study, showing that polluted air made COVID-19 symptoms more severe—especially for poorer communities. Read More
News Credit: The Guardian
Picture Credit: Alejandro García/EPA