A study reveals that childhood exposure to air pollution can lead to bronchitic symptoms in adults, even without prior lung problems.
Gary Fuller reports for The Guardian.
In short:
- The study started in 1992, tracking children in California and assessing their lung health in adulthood.
- Higher childhood exposure to particle pollution and nitrogen dioxide correlates with adult bronchitic symptoms, even in those without childhood lung issues.
- The findings emphasize the lasting impact of childhood air pollution, irrespective of current exposure levels.
Key quote:
"This was surprising. We thought air pollutant effects on childhood asthma or bronchitic symptoms would be a major pathway by which childhood air pollution exposure affects adult respiratory health."
— Dr. Erika Garcia, University of Southern California
Why this matters:
The study underscores the long-term health risks of early air pollution exposure. Reducing pollution is vital to protect vulnerable children's long-term respiratory health.
