On the road to illness: The impact of traffic pollution on children's lungs and minds

Causes of asthma in children: Kids are especially vulnerable due to their faster respiratory rates and higher activity levels. Living in areas with high automobile emissions can lead to both short-term and long-term respiratory problems (Image: Canva)

Children playing near busy streets breathe in air filled with traffic-associated air pollutants (TRAP), which can pose serious health risks. Their small lungs take in fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and other harmful substances that can lead to respiratory issues like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

Exposure to TRAP can also affect their cognitive abilities, making it hard for them to concentrate in school and impacting their memory. This can result in shorter attention spans and challenges in learning, affecting their overall development.

As their bodies and immune systems are still developing, children are more vulnerable to these pollutants. Says Dr Sathish C Reddy, Consultant Pulmonologist at CARE Hospitals Hitech City, Hyderabad, "Protecting your children from traffic-associated air pollutants is essential, as their developing bodies are particularly vulnerable to the long-term effects of poor air quality. By prioritising cleaner environments, you can ensure a healthier future for your children.”

Dr Reddy explains the risks and respiratory problems involved with TRAP.

Understanding traffic-associated pollutants: Car emissions contain dangerous substances, including nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O₃), and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Children are especially vulnerable due to their faster respiratory rates and higher activity levels. Living in areas with high automobile emissions can lead to both short-term and long-term respiratory problems.

Also read | Here's how to prevent asthma in children

Increased risk of respiratory issues: Children exposed to TRAP are more likely to develop allergies and experience frequent respiratory infections. Those living near major roads or highways face an elevated risk, with studies indicating higher rates of asthma and breathing difficulties in these areas. Children with pre-existing asthma may experience more severe attacks, necessitating emergency care and increased medication use.

Long-term effects on lung development: Prolonged exposure to traffic pollutants can hinder lung development. Since children’s lungs are still growing, this exposure may reduce lung capacity and function over time, potentially leading to chronic conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adulthood. The inflammation caused by these pollutants can exacerbate existing respiratory issues, making symptom management more challenging.

Broader health implications: In addition to respiratory challenges, poor air quality can impact other areas of health. TRAP can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to illnesses like pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus infections. Long-term exposure can result in more frequent illnesses, longer recovery times, and a greater need for medical care. Recent studies also suggest that air pollution can disrupt brain development, leading to cognitive delays and behavioral issues, including ADHD.

Also read | Childhood lung diseases: Prevent asthma, tuberculosis, pneumonia with this detailed guide for parents

Strategies to reduce exposure:

To protect children from these harmful pollutants, it's crucial to limit their exposure to polluted environments. Parents should strive to reduce time spent in heavily populated areas, especially during peak pollution hours like rush hour. Ideally, schools and playgrounds should be located away from high-traffic areas.

Using air purifiers in homes, particularly in bedrooms and classrooms, can help decrease indoor pollution levels. Additionally, planting trees and shrubs can create natural barriers that absorb some harmful emissions from traffic.

Alongside, implementing stricter regulations on vehicle emissions, increasing green spaces, and urban planning focused on reducing traffic can significantly lower children's exposure to harmful pollutants.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.