IDAI: Air pollution causes 7 million early deaths, children most at risk
IDAI also says pollutant exposure harms pregnant women and fetuses, and worsens acute respiratory infections, asthma and allergies in children.
Ikatan Dokter Anak Indonesia (IDAI) warned that air pollution remains a serious threat to global health and causes about 7 million early deaths each year. At a media seminar marking Environment Day, Riyadi, a member of the IDAI Task Force on Environmental Health and Climate Change, said children are among the most vulnerable because their airways are still developing and their immune systems are not yet mature. He said pollution from vehicle emissions, industrial activity, forest fires, and the burning of fuel and waste can trigger acute respiratory infections, asthma, allergies and other chronic diseases. IDAI said the impact also reaches pregnant women and fetal development because of exposure to heavy metals and fine particles. IDAI said pollution control must include cutting vehicle emissions, avoiding waste burning, expanding green space and promoting environmentally friendly transportation.