Air Pollution Overview

Study Notes

Introduction to Pollution

Pollution is the introduction of harmful contaminants into the environment, leading to adverse changes.
Major pollution forms include air, water, soil, noise, light, plastic, and thermal pollution.
In 2015, pollution was responsible for 9 million deaths globally, affecting health through air, water, and food sources.
Assessing pollution risks requires collaboration among various experts, drawing knowledge from toxicology and environmental health.

Definition of Air Pollution

Air pollution is the contamination of the atmosphere by harmful gaseous, liquid, or solid wastes.
Key pollutants include sulfur dioxide, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), and nitrogen oxides, mainly from industrial and vehicular sources.
Photochemical ozone and smog result from the reaction of nitrogen oxides with hydrocarbons in sunlight.
Particulate matter is categorized by its micrometre size, representing fine dust pollution.

General Categories and Sources of Air Pollution

Primary Air Pollutants: These are harmful substances emitted directly into the atmosphere.
Secondary Air Pollutants: Formed in the atmosphere when primary pollutants react with naturally occurring substances or other pollutants.

Effects on Human Health

Air pollution is linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, throat inflammation, chest pain, and congestion.
The elderly and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions face higher risks; children and infants are also particularly vulnerable.
WHO estimated that air pollution leads to approximately 500,000 deaths annually in India.

Clinical Effects

Immediate Effects: Large inhalation exposures to nerve agents can lead to immediate fatalities.
Delayed Effects: Small skin exposures to nerve agents may have understated dangers, necessitating careful observation for delayed symptoms.

Management of Air Pollution Exposure

Personal Protective Equipment: First responders face significant risks from contaminated environments, especially during chemical attacks, where direct contact or inhalation of vapors is possible.
Decontamination: Critical process to remove harmful chemicals from individuals and environments. Initial decontamination entails:
- Removing contaminated clothing and jewelry.
- Washing affected skin with warm water and soap, avoiding hot water which may increase chemical absorption.
- If the type of exposure (vapor or liquid) is uncertain, individuals showing any symptoms should undergo decontamination.
Supportive and Specific Therapy:
- Medical treatment begins with ensuring victims can breathe.
- For many chemical exposures, treatment focuses on symptom management; however, specific antidotes exist for nerve agents and cyanide.
- Rapid confirmation of chemical exposure via lab tests may not be practical in emergency hospital settings.

Description

This quiz covers the basics of air pollution, exploring its definition, major forms, and the impact of various contaminants on the environment. It provides insights into how pollution changes natural ecosystems and discusses the consequences on health and society.