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How does air pollution affect human health and the environment?

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Air pollution can have various negative impacts on both human health and the environment. Here are some effects:

  1. Human health:
  • Respiratory problems: Breathing in polluted air can cause or worsen respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and other lung diseases.
  • Cardiovascular diseases: Air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart conditions.
  • Cancer: Long-term exposure to certain air pollutants has been associated with an increased risk of developing cancer.
  • Reduced immune function: Air pollution can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
  1. Environment:
  • Climate change: Some air pollutants contribute to global warming and climate change by trapping heat in the atmosphere.
  • Damage to ecosystems: Air pollution can harm plants, animals, and ecosystems through acid rain, smog, and other pollutants.
  • Water pollution: Some air pollutants can settle into bodies of water, contributing to water pollution and harming aquatic life.
  • Depletion of ozone layer: Certain air pollutants can contribute to the thinning of the ozone layer, which protects the Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Overall, reducing air pollution is crucial to protecting both human health and the environment.

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