Outdoor Air Pollution and Children's Health
Wiparat Suwanwaiphatthana Kannika Ruangdej Anne Turner-Henson
Children spend almost 90% of their time indoors, though outside air can be a significant
source of potential and actual exposure to outdoor air pollutants. Children
are vulnerable to pollutants and toxins because of their size and developing
organ systems.Young children have increased respiratory rates and inhale more
toxins, and young children often ignore respiratory symptoms and continue play.
Outdoor play and recreational activities expose children to outdoor air pollution
from sources such as automobiles, power plants, industry, and other combustion
sources, which can impact children. Outdoor air pollution has been linked to respiratory
illness exacerbations, infant mortality, the development of asthma, and
atopy and reduction in lung development in children.This article will examine outdoor
air pollution and its impact on children's health, as well as implications for
pediatric nursing clinical practice. |