US EPA

2080087 

Journal Article 

Review 

Air pollution: A threat to the health of our children 

Moshammer, H; Bartonova, A; Hanke, W; van Den Hazel, P; Koppe, JG; Kraemer, U; Ronchetti, R; Sram, RJ; Wallis, Max; Wallner, P; Zuurbier, M 

2006 

Yes 

Acta Paediatrica
ISSN: 0803-5253
EISSN: 1651-2227 

95 

453 

93-105 

English 

17000576 

10.1080/08035320600886620 

WOS:000241502000015 

BACKGROUND/METHODS: Current air pollution levels pose a threat to the health of children starting from conception. The scientific evidence is presented for mortality, morbidity, and sub-clinical effects. The first section deals with exposure data, the following sections with the evidence of health effects from epidemiology and toxicology leading to recommendations.

RESULTS: Improved air quality reduces the number of infants' deaths as well as disease and pain.

CONCLUSIONS: Medical doctors have a responsibility to know the facts and to advise their patients. Doctors when visiting their patients' homes should be aware of the possibly grave impact of the indoor environment for the respiratory health of their patients. They should recognize and advise the parents on problems associated with environmental tobacco smoke, poor ventilation, mould growth, and maintenance of heating installations. With regard to outdoor air pollution, doctors could serve as role models and also advise their patients and parents on environmentally friendly behaviour. Such behaviour not only calls for personal commitment but also for the right infrastructure to be provided (e.g. public transport, district heating). Doctors should be proactive in the community and in their country as advocates for a healthier environment for our children. 

children; environment; air pollution; health effects; exposure