Category: Air pollution

Wildfire smoke and pregnancy: what the science tells us and why it matters right now

~ PRHE

As massive wildfires send smoke billowing across the mid-Atlantic, northeastern United States, and Midwest, many people are focused on the immediate effects of breathing smoky air: burning eyes, irritated throats, and worsening asthma. But for pregnant women, the risks may run deeper and last longer than the smoke itself. Wildfires are no longer just a … Continue reading Wildfire smoke and pregnancy: what the science tells us and why it matters right now

Microplastics may be leading to lung and colon cancers

~ PRHE ~ 2 Comments

A review of 3,000 studies also suggests these minute plastic air particles may be causing male and female infertility. Tires and degrading garbage shed tiny pieces of plastic into the air, creating a form of air pollution that UC San Francisco researchers suspect may be causing respiratory and other illnesses. A review of some 3,000 … Continue reading Microplastics may be leading to lung and colon cancers

Life is a (polluted) highway: How exposure to traffic pollution impacts health

~ PRHE ~ 1 Comment

In the United States, almost 60 million people live within 500 meters of a highway or highly trafficked road. Living near roads means greater exposure to traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) from cars and trucks, which can lead to numerous health issues, including premature death. In California, 40% of the population lives near major roads, the … Continue reading Life is a (polluted) highway: How exposure to traffic pollution impacts health