Air Pollution and Asthma
Asthma attacks are life-threatening and can be aggravated and possibly caused by air pollution.
When lungs are irritated by air pollution, they become more sensitive and responsive to allergens, which can lead to asthma attacks. One study showed that exposure to ozone may even cause asthma.
The number of children in the United States afflicted with asthma has increased dramatically: The American Lung Association estimates that more than six million children under 18 have asthma and it is the third leading cause of hospitalization among children under the age of 15. The hazards of ozone and other air pollutants pose a greater risk for children than adults because they are outdoors more, especially in the summer; they are more active; they breathe more rapidly; they breathe through the mouth; and their lungs are still developing.
Eighty percent of high ozone days occur between June and October.To protect children, stay aware of when high ozone days occur and limit the time they spend outdoors on those days.
Keep all outdoor activities away from busy roadways and other sources of pollution. Make sure coaches and camp directors are aware of the health risks of air pollution and have policies in place to protect children when air is unhealthy. If your child has asthma, let care givers know he or she is especially vulnerable on high ozone days.