Experts Warn of Asthma Epidemic

The higher levels of pollen and changes in the types of molds spurred by global warming, along with unhealthy urban air masses caused by the burning of fossil fuels, are likely to lead to even higher rates of asthma, according to a report issued by researchers at Harvard University (Boston, MA, USA) and the American Public Health Association (APHA, Washington, DC, USA).

Asthma is already at epidemic levels, having grown 160% from 1980-1994 among preschool children, or more than twice the rate for the overall U.S. population. The highest incidence of the disease is among poor and minority children in urban centers. These children are exposed to the worst air quality and the additional allergen exposure arising from global warming. Actually, all people living in U.S. cities are at increased risk of respiratory disease due to greater concentrations of air pollution.

The researchers say the problem highlights the need to convert from fossil fuel use to greater energy efficiency, hybrid vehicles, alternative power sources, "green buildings,” and improved public transport. The latter would reduce CO2 levels now altering plant growth and help to stabilize the climate.

"This is a real wake-up call for people who mistakenly think global warming is only going to be a problem way off in the future or that it has no impact on their lives in any meaningful way,” said Christine Rogers, Ph.D., senior research scientist, Exposure, Epidemiology, and Risk Program, Harvard School of Public Health. "The problem is here today for these children and it is only going to get worse.”




Related Links:
Harvard
APHA