This article describes the
relationship between global warming and increasing respiratory illnesses.
Global warming can cause more wildfires and dust storms, which can put
particles in the air that, if inhaled, can cause respiratory illness. Also,
tropical mold spores and diseases are being found farther north because the
north is getting warmer. There is also more pollen due to the temperature
increase. Global warming causes more ozone at ground level, which can lead to
lung cancer, asthma, and infections. People with weak immune systems or in
areas that have been affected by natural disasters are at greater risk.
This
article connects mostly to our unit on the respiratory system and also the
immune system. People in areas affected by global warming are being exposed to
tropical diseases that they have little immunity to, so they will get
respiratory illnesses more easily. Global warming causes an increase in
airborne irritants that can lead to infection in the lungs. Lastly, this
connects to the immune system because people with weak immune systems are
likely to experience greater problems because of climate change. Since their
immune systems are already weak, they have no way to combat the new diseases.
Ojha, Dr. K.S. “Respiratory Diseases Expected To Worsen With
Global Climate Change.” Medical News
Today. 19 March 2012. MediLexicon International. Web. 4 May 2012.
Is there a way that we can help prevent ourselves from obtaining many of these illnesses?
ReplyDeleteSince many are viruses, vaccines are the only way to prevent illness. Antibiotics will also work to kill the bacterial infection. Unfortunately, the most effective prevention may be to limit time outdoors to avoid inhaling irritants and buy an air filter for one's house.
DeleteHow does ozone at the ground level cause respiratory disease?
ReplyDeleteOzone damages the lining of the lungs and inflames the airways. It can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and decreased lung capacity. I was not able to determine this directly in my research, but I would guess that ozone's damaging effects have to do with the fact that is is made of three oxygen molecules rather than two.
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