How can air pollution affect people's health?

Different pollutants may react differently, and on different parts of a body. Some may be poisonous in one way or another. Particulate matter can cause both direct and secondary adverse effects on breathing. Acid gases (#SO_2, NO, NO_2) can destroy cell structures in the respiratory tracts. Carbon monoxide irreversibly binds with hemoglobin, decreasing the available oxygen-transport in the circulatory system.

Air pollution can negatively affect people's health in several ways. It can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Long-term exposure to air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, air pollution can impair lung function and development, particularly in children, and contribute to the development of respiratory infections. Certain pollutants, such as fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide, have been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. Overall, exposure to air pollution can have significant adverse effects on both the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, leading to serious health consequences.