Multiple atmospheric pollutants may be triggering asthma symptoms among children

Exposure to Combinations of Air Pollutants Linked to Asthma Symptoms in Children

Introduction

A recent analysis suggests that exposure to several combinations of toxic atmospheric pollutants may be triggering asthma symptoms among children. The study, published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, highlights the importance of addressing air pollution and its impact on public health, particularly in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Research Findings

1. The study analyzed 269 elementary school children diagnosed with asthma in Spokane, Washington.
2. 25 different combinations of air pollutants were associated with asthma symptoms.
3. A socioeconomic disparity was observed, with children from lower-income neighborhoods exposed to more toxic combinations.
4. Machine learning techniques were used to analyze the potential exposure effects of 109 air pollutants and their combinations on asthma outcomes.
5. Three specific pollutants (1,1,1 trichloroethane, 2-nitropropane, and 2, 4, 6 trichlorophenol) were significantly associated with asthma symptoms across all exposure periods.

Implications and Recommendations

• The study emphasizes the need to consider multiple pollutants when studying asthma outcomes.
• Proximity to known air pollution sources, such as highways or facilities that use solvents, may contribute to higher exposure levels.
• Socioeconomic disparities in air toxic exposures highlight the importance of addressing environmental justice issues.
• The findings align with previous research in New York City, indicating that air toxics influence asthma among children regardless of the city size.

Conclusion

The study underscores the urgent need to address air pollution and its impact on children’s health. By implementing measures to reduce air pollutants and promote sustainable development, progress can be made towards achieving the SDGs, particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Sources

• Washington State University
• Journal reference: Amiri, S., et al. (2024). Machine learning-driven identification of air toxic combinations associated with asthma symptoms among elementary school children in Spokane, Washington, USA. Science of the Total Environment. doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171102.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

The article discusses the impact of toxic atmospheric pollutants on children’s health, specifically asthma symptoms. This aligns with SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. Additionally, the article mentions the socioeconomic disparity in exposure to air pollutants, indicating a connection to SDG 11, which focuses on creating sustainable cities and communities.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• SDG 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.

The article highlights the association between toxic air pollutants and asthma symptoms in children. This connects to SDG 3.9, which aims to reduce illnesses caused by air pollution. Additionally, the mention of socioeconomic disparities in exposure to air pollutants relates to SDG 11.6, which focuses on reducing the adverse environmental impact of cities, including air quality.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, the article mentions specific pollutants that were significantly associated with asthma symptoms in children:

• 1,1,1 trichloroethane
• 2-nitropropane
• 2, 4, 6 trichlorophenol

These pollutants can serve as indicators to measure progress towards the targets of reducing illnesses caused by hazardous chemicals and air pollution (SDG 3.9) and improving air quality in cities (SDG 11.6).

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

The table presents the identified SDGs, their corresponding targets, and the specific indicators mentioned in the article. Both SDG 3 and SDG 11 are addressed, with the pollutants 1,1,1 trichloroethane, 2-nitropropane, and 2, 4, 6 trichlorophenol serving as indicators for measuring progress towards the targets.

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: news-medical.net

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