Question

Mention few effects of air pollution on human health.

Answer 1

When harmful substances such as particulate matter and biological molecules are introduced into Earth's atmosphere which affects air quality, then it is known as air pollution. It affects humans, animals, plants and other organisms.

Following are the few effects of air pollution on human health:-

1. Bronchitis, emphysema, asthma and lung cancer are some of the chronic diseases caused due to exposure to polluted air.
   
2. Sulfur dioxide is considered to cause cough, shortness of breath, spasm of the larynx and acute irritation to the membranes of the eyes. It also acts as an allergenic agent. When it reacts with some compounds, sulfuric acid is formed which may damage lungs.
   
3. Carbon monoxide often affects the oxygen carrying capacity of blood. Nitric oxide is reported to be a pulmonary irritant and its excess concentration may cause pulmonary haemorrhage.
   
4. Lead emitted from automobile exhausts is a cumulative poison and is dangerous particularly to children and may cause brain damage.