NOVEL research presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Vienna, Austria, has revealed that prolonged exposure to air pollution, as well as limited access to green spaces, significantly increases the risk of hospitalisation for respiratory conditions. The research, part of the Life-GAP project, underscored the dangers of pollutants like particulate matter, black carbon, and nitrogen dioxide, while also emphasising the benefits of green spaces for respiratory health.
Shanshan Xu, University of Bergen, Norway, presented findings from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey, which included data from 1,644 individuals across five Northern European countries. Despite relatively low pollution levels in these regions, the study found that increased exposure to traffic-related pollutants raised the risk of respiratory hospitalisation by 30–45%. Access to greener environments, however, was associated with a reduced risk of hospitalisations, although a higher rate of emergency visits for conditions like hay fever was also observed.
“Air pollution causes persistent inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to chronic respiratory diseases,” commented Xu. “Long-term exposure can lead to increased sensitivity, making even moderate pollution levels harmful.”
Another study, presented by Samuel Cai, University of Leicester, UK, found a strong link between pollution and the progression of asthma to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Asthmatic patients exposed to higher levels of particulate matter were 56% more likely to develop COPD, and those with a genetic predisposition faced even higher risks.
Zorana Andersen, Chair of the ERS Health and Environment Committee, emphasised the need for clean air policies, commenting that “air pollution affects everyone, but most individuals have limited means to protect themselves.” Looking to the future, Andersen added that “policy-makers must take bold action to reduce pollution and promote urban greenery.”
These studies have highlighted the urgent need for environmental reforms to protect the public and healthcare systems alike from the long-term effects of air pollution.
Victoria Antoniou, EMJ
References
Xu S et al. Long-term exposure to air pollution and greenness and hospitalization for respiratory conditions in Northern Europe: The Life-GAP project. Abstract PA468. ERS Congress, 7–11 September, 2024.
Cai S et al. Air pollution, genetic susceptibility and risk of progression from asthma to COPD. Abstract OA971. ERS Congress, 7–11 September, 2024.
