Background

Air pollution is one of the leading environmental risk factors affecting human health globally. Exposure to airborne pollutants such as particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), ozone (O₃), and carbon monoxide (CO) has been strongly associated with respiratory diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, and lung infections.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of air pollution exposure on respiratory diseases among adults and children residing in urban and semi-urban environments.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted involving 600 participants diagnosed with respiratory diseases. Air quality data and clinical records were collected over a 12-month period. Respiratory symptoms, hospital admissions, pulmonary function tests, and pollutant exposure levels were analyzed. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multivariate regression models.

Results

Higher exposure to PM₂.₅ and NO₂ was significantly associated with increased respiratory symptoms, reduced lung function, and higher hospitalization rates (p < 0.001). Asthma exacerbations increased by 32%, while COPD-related admissions increased by 28% during periods of elevated pollution. Children and elderly individuals were particularly vulnerable to adverse effects.

Conclusion

Air pollution significantly contributes to respiratory disease burden and worsens clinical outcomes. Effective pollution control policies and public health interventions are essential to reduce exposure and improve respiratory health.