Abstract
The rising frequency of obstructive respiratory diseases during recent years, in particular allergic asthma, can be partially explained by changes in the environment, with the increasing presence in the atmosphere of chemical triggers (particulate matter and gaseous components such as nitrogen dioxide and ozone) and biologic triggers (aeroallergens). In allergic individuals, aeroallergens stimulate airway sensitization and thus induce symptoms of bronchial asthma. Over the last 50 years, the earth's temperature has risen markedly, likely because of growing concentrations of anthropogenic greenhouse gas. Major atmospheric and climatic changes, including global warming induced by human activity, have a considerable impact on the biosphere and on the human environment. Urbanization and high levels of vehicle emissions induce symptoms of bronchial obstruction (in particular bronchial asthma), more so in people living in urban areas compared than in those who live in rural areas. Measures need to be taken to mitigate the future impact of climate change and global warming. However, while global emissions continue to rise, we must learn to adapt to climate variability.
Highlights
The massive increase in chemical and biologic pollutants in the atmosphere during the last century has made air quality a major environmental problem in many regions of the world
These changes, including global warming induced by human activity, have an impact on the biosphere and on the human environment
Global changes in population growth and demands, air pollution, and increased temperature of the earth are unprecedented and are threatening the future of human life. These changes are leading to a redistribution of life on earth, posing risks in several areas, including economic development, livelihood, food safety, and global health
Summary
The massive increase in chemical and biologic pollutants in the atmosphere during the last century has made air quality a major environmental problem in many regions of the world. Changes in climate and air quality (both outdoors and indoors) have a measurable impact on the morbidity and mortality of patients with asthma and other obstructive respiratory diseases such as COPD. – Modulation of the cell cycle and cell death in the airways evidence that individuals affected by asthma are at increased risk of developing chronic obstructive airway exacerbations with continuous exposure to the gaseous and particulate components of air pollution. Continuous exposure to high O3 levels impairs respiratory function and causes or exacerbates airway inflammation in healthy individuals and in asthma patients. Current knowledge on the worldwide effects of climate change on respiratory allergic diseases is from studies on the relationship between asthma and environmental factors, such as meteorological variables, airborne allergens, and air pollution. When forests are cut down, the planet’s ability to absorb what humans emit is reduced [43]
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