Issue 2 - "Update on adverse respiratory effects of indoor air pollution". Part 2): Indoor air pollution and respiratory diseases: Perspectives from Italy and some other GARD countries

Abstract

Objective: to synthesize the Italian epidemiological contribution to knowledge on indoor pollution respiratory impact, and to analyze the perspective of some GARD countries on the health effects of indoor air pollution.

Results: Italian epidemiological analytical studies confirmed a strong relationship between indoor air pollution and health in general population. Environmental tobacco smoke, biomass (wood/coal) fuel for cooking/heating and indoor allergens (house dust mites, cat and dog dander, mold/damp) are the most relevant indoor pollution sources and are related to respiratory and allergic symptoms/diseases in Italy and in other GARD countries such as Mexico, Brazil, Vietnam, India, Nepal and Kyrgyzstan. Community-based global health collaborations are working to improve prevention, diagnosis and care of respiratory diseases around the world, specially in low- and middle-income countries, through research and education.

Conclusions: in the last thirty years, the scientific evidence produced on respiratory health effects of indoor air pollution has been extensive, but the necessity to empower the synergies between scientific community and local administrations remains a challenge to address in order to implement effective interventions. Based on abundant evidence of indoor pollution health effect, WHO, scientific societies, patient organizations and other members of the health community should work together to pursue the GARD vision of "a world where all people breathe freely" and encourage policy makers to increase their engagement in advocacy for clean air.

Keywords: Allergic diseases; Chronic respiratory diseases; Epidemiology; GARD; Household air pollution; Italy.