Big City Living: The Health Effects of Air Pollution

Living and working in a big city can raise some concern regarding the health effects of air pollution. Although government safety regulations have been implemented into vehicles and industries to ease once rampant air polluting practices, there are still risks involved.

Particulates

These are the fine particles primarily released from vehicles. Because there are so many vehicles and people packed into a small area, these particulates are easily embedded into your lungs. The health effects of air pollution on the lungs is ground zero for potential long-term development of disease. These particulates consist mainly of sulfur dioxide, heavy metals, sulfate, nitrate and other chemical contaminants. Fortunately in a developed city like New York there are about 50 micrograms of particulates per cubic meter, as opposed to other less developed or regulated cities like Beijing, China where it can reach 100 micrograms or more.

Geography

The health effects of air pollution also rely heavily on the location of the city. In California, the city of Los Angeles sits in a sort of bowl shape which traps these particulates, making it difficult for them to escape. Smog alerts are often reported on days when the winds are too low to sweep the pollution out of this bowl and residents are advised to stay inside their filtrated homes. New York City on the other hand is an island surrounded by water, which helps wind cleanse the city of its pollution.

Body Response

Your body has a powerful filtration system of its own that works optimally when your immune system is healthy. However, some bodies struggle more than others. According to The World Resources Institute’s study, “Urban Air: Health effects of particulates, sulfur dioxide and ozone,” the health effects of air pollution can complicate and sometimes cause shortness of breath, respiratory illness such as asthma or bronchitis, and heart disease.

Protect Yourself

When walking through a big city, beware of your deep breathing behind buses and inside tunnels. Wear a face mask if you are susceptible to lung illness. Keep your immune system healthy by eating right and taking vitamins, minerals and especially antioxidants.