Effect of Air Pollution on the Respiratory System: A Review

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594772417088

• Palavras-chave: Air pollution, Particulate matter (PM), Ozone (O3), Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Acute effects, Chronic effects.

• Keywords: Air pollution, Particulate matter (PM), Ozone (O3), Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Acute effects, Chronic effects.

• Abstract:

  Air pollution, composed of particulate matter (PM) and gases such as ozone (O3) and nitrogen oxides, significantly impacts the respiratory system. High concentrations of oxidants and pro-oxidants in these pollutants cause the formation of free radicals, inducing oxidative stress in the airways. This triggers an inflammatory response that releases inflammatory cells and mediators (cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules) into the systemic circulation, resulting in subclinical inflammation with systemic effects. The effects of pollutants can be acute, manifesting within hours or days after exposure, or chronic, observed over years or decades. Groups more susceptible to the effects of pollution include children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing respiratory problems.