Should I worry about air pollution?

Air pollution and health – a problem for everyone

Air pollution is ubiquitous, but in urban and especially highly trafficked areas, exposures can be high.

Numerous research studies, replicated across the world agree that breathing air of poor quality impacts on people’s health.

Exposure to poor air quality is associated with both ill health and premature death.

People may be affected by poor air quality even if they never experience any noticeable pollution related health effects such as breathing problems.

Air pollution can cause short term (nearly immediate) symptoms and long term (chronic disease) effects.

• Health effects can be more profound if you are sensitive to air pollution.
• You can get a global perspective from the World Health Organization.
• There is good advice about "healthy air" from the American Lung Association