Impact of air pollution by particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5) on the development of somatic pathologies in children (literature review)

Abstract

аccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), 4.2 million deaths annually are associated with air pollution. Air pollution is the second leading risk factor for mortality among children under the age of five, responsible for an additional 700,000 deaths (15 % of all mortality) worldwide. Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze literature data, international and domestic regulatory and methodological documents, and information sources to determine the main aspects of the particulate matter impact (in particular PM₁₀ and PM_2.5) on the development of children's somatic pathologies. The greatest concern of scientists and health experts is caused by emissions of particulate matter (PM₁₀, PM_2.5), which causes 10 % of social health losses in Ukraine, resulting in 43,000 premature deaths.  Children are particularly adversely affected due to their greater physical activity, immature immune system, underdeveloped respiratory system, and metabolism, which leads to increased lung ventilation and absorption of large volumes of polluted air. The analysis revealed that exposure to PM₁₀, PM_2.5 can lead to children’s psychological complications, autism, and retinopathy; affecting the course of pregnancy and childbirth (spontaneous miscarriages and stillbirths), causing children to develop health problems in the future. It can also increase the prevalence of bronchial asthma, respiratory infections, including acute lower respiratory tract infections, pneumonia, upper respiratory tract infections, and otitis media; and in the future, cardiovascular diseases. At the same time, existing research suggests that allergies, including allergic rhinitis, eczema, and conjunctivitis, are exacerbated and increase in children. Thus, based on the analyzed epidemiological and clinical studies, it is possible to assert a direct and reliable link between exposure to PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 air pollution and an increase in the number of pulmonary diseases among children (in particular, bronchial asthma and pneumonia). Particular attention is drawn to studies on the increased risk of morbidity and progression of type 2 diabetes among children, including the search for causes and mechanisms of its occurrence. The above calls for in-depth epidemiological research, which is limited in Ukraine.