Find two sources of data for air pollution. For your population of interest (the USA), provide and describe disease frequencies and any other relevant statistics. Incorporate this information into a brief narrative [in your own words] describing current literature and research in air pollution. Make sure to cite your data sources.
700 words – not including the links/citations
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Air pollution is a significant public health issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It has been associated with various respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and heart disease. Therefore, it is essential to understand the current literature and research focusing on air pollution and its impact on the population.
Sources of data for air pollution:
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are two sources of data for air pollution. Both organizations provide detailed information on the levels of pollutants in the environment, including particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur oxides. According to the EPA, the most common sources of air pollution in the USA are transportation, power plants, and industrial facilities, while agricultural activities also contribute to air pollution.
Disease frequencies and relevant statistics:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that respiratory diseases, such as asthma and COPD, are prevalent in the US population. Nearly 25 million people in the United States have asthma, and 16 million have COPD. The American Heart Association estimates that air pollution contributes to around 200,000 deaths annually due to heart disease and stroke.
Current literature and research in air pollution:
Many studies have examined the effects of air pollution on human health. One such study by the Harvard School of Public Health found that even low levels of air pollution could increase the risk of premature death. This study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, revealed that PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) was associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
Another study by the University of California, San Francisco, found that diesel exhaust exposure could damage the DNA of the body’s immune cells. The study, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, stated that the damage could make individuals more likely to develop health problems, including autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases.
Conclusion:
Air pollution is a significant concern for public health in the United States. The EPA and WHO monitors levels of pollutants in the environment, while the CDC reports prevalence rates of respiratory diseases. The literature shows that air pollution can contribute to a range of health issues, including cardiovascular and respiratory problems. As such, it is essential to continue researching and addressing air pollution to improve public health.
