Climate Change, Air Pollution, and Biodiversity in Asia Pacific and Impact on Respiratory Allergies

Abstract

Allergic diseases are increasing globally. Air pollution, climate change, and reduced biodiversity are major threats to human health with detrimental effects on chronic noncommunicable diseases. Outdoor and indoor air pollution and climate change are increasing. Asia has experienced rapid economic growth, a deteriorating environment, and an increase in allergic diseases to epidemic proportions. Air pollutant levels in Asian countries are substantially higher than in developed countries. Moreover, industrial, traffic-related, and household biomass combustion and indoor pollutants from chemicals and tobacco are major sources of air pollutants. We highlight the major components of pollutants and their impacts on respiratory allergies.

Keywords: Air pollution; Allergic disease; Asia-pacific; Climate change.