Effect: How is Pollution Effecting Our Health?

Pollution in our environment and in our food can cause health problems to us, whether they are serious or not, or long-term or short-term. "Many scientific studies have identified a relationship between elevated levels of fine particles and increased illness and premature death from heart and lung disorders, such as asthma and bronchitis." EPA

Short-term Effects



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According to lbl.gov air pollution can cause, short-term effects such as irritation to the eyes, nose and throat. Can cause upper respiratory infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis. Other symptoms include headaches, nausea, and allergic reactions. Air pollution can be harmful to individuals with asthma and emphysema.



• For example in the 1952 great "Smog Disaster" in London, 4,000 people died in a few days due to the high concentrations of pollution.

Long-term Effects

Some long-term effects of air pollution are chronic respiratory disease and lung cancer. Heart disease and can even cause damage to the brain, nerves, liver, and kidneys.





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As many as half a million people die prematurely every year in the United States as a result of smoking cigarettes.