The authors of this macro study link the daily increase in these particles to the increase in daily mortality for all causes, and an increase in death due to respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
It has been proven that air quality affects human health. Living in a pollution-free environment signifies a better quality of life, but do we really know how air pollution affects us and which parts of our bodies are damaged by each kind of polluting particle? Air pollution causes around seven million deaths a year worldwide.
Growth and concentration of the population in cities, as well as the way in which we consume energy in urban areas through transport or heating and air conditioning systems, among others, result in the emission of huge quantities of gases that are harmful to our health. Our physical and psychological wellbeing is affected differently by the kind of air pollution we are exposed to. There are many organs and bodily functions that can be harmed, the consequences including:.
Other agricultural air pollutants include pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. All of which also contribute to water pollution.
Nutrient pollution is caused by wastewater, sewage, and fertilizers. The high levels of nutrients in these sources end up in bodies of water and promote algae and weed growth, which can make the water undrinkable and depleted oxygen causing aquatic organisms to die. Pesticides and herbicides applied to crops and residential areas concentrate in the soil and are carried to the groundwater by rainwater and runoff.
For these reasons anytime someone drills a well for water it must be checked for pollutants. Industrial waste is one of the main causes of water pollution, by creating primary and secondary pollutants including sulphur, lead and mercury, nitrates and phosphates, and oil spills.
This causes serious problems including the harming and killing of sea creatures, which ultimately affects humans. This occurs when humans apply chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides to the soil, dispose of waste improperly, and irresponsibly exploit minerals through mining.
Soil is also polluted through leaking underground septic tanks, sewage systems, the leaching of harmful substances from landfill, and direct discharge of waste water by industrial plants into rivers and oceans.
Rain and flooding can bring pollutants from other already polluted lands to soil at other locations. Over-farming and over-grazing by agricultural activities causes the soil to lose its nutrient value and structure causing soil degradation, another type of soil pollution. Landfills can leach harmful substances into the soil and water ways and create very bad smells, and breeding grounds for rodents that transmit diseases. Noise is considered an environmental pollutant caused by household sources, social events, commercial and industrial activities, and transportation.
Light pollution is caused by the prolonged and excessive use of artificial lights at night that can cause health problems in humans and disrupt natural cycles, including wildlife activities. Sources of light pollution include electronic billboards, night sports grounds, street and car lights, city parks, public places, airports, and residential areas.
Pollution ends up in these forms including dust, smog, and toxic gas emissions. In addition to the natural sources of pollution, they can also come from human activity. These sources include industries such as mining, manufacturing plants, power plants, oil refineries, and transportation that release pollutants into the air or water. High levels of air pollution can cause an increased risk of heart attack, wheezing, coughing, and breathing problems, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.
Air pollution can also cause worsening of existing heart problems, asthma, and other lung complications. Like humans, animals can suffer from a number of health problems due to air pollution, including birth defects, reproductive failure, and diseases.
Air pollution causes a number of environmental effects in addition to the effects on humans and animals. Acid rain contains high levels of nitric and sulfuric acids that are created by oxides and sulfur oxides released into the air by the burning of fossil fuels. Acid rain damages trees and acidifies soils and water bodies, making the water too acidic for fish and other aquatic life. Radon test kits are available to purchase in stores and online. A person can use a carbon monoxide detector to monitor the carbon monoxide levels in their home or workplace.
Carbon monoxide detectors are available to purchase in stores and online. It may cause respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. A person can reduce the likelihood of health problems by checking the air quality in their local areas and being aware of any existing health conditions. Carbon monoxide can be fatal. If a person thinks that they have carbon monoxide poisoning, they should get into fresh air and seek medical help immediately.
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