Air pollution refers to the presence of particles or gasses in the air that do not occur there naturally and are harmful to health. Such pollutants include particulates, soot, ozone, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide.
Most of these substances originate from human activity. Road traffic and industry are significant sources of air pollution, but shipping, agriculture, open fires and wood-burning stoves also play a role.
Air pollution and your health
There are a number of health effects associated with air pollution.
Air pollution increases the risk of lung cancer
Scientific research has shown that there is a link between air pollution and lung cancer. As everyone is exposed to air pollution, e.g. particulates originating from road traffic, to a greater or lesser extent, the effect on public health is relatively significant.
Air pollution increases the risk of a stroke
An increasing number of studies are demonstrating a link between air pollution and the risk of a stroke. This may be because air pollution impacts the regulation of blood pressure.
Air pollution increases the risk of lung cancer
Scientific research has shown that there is a link between air pollution and lung cancer. As everyone is exposed to air pollution, e.g. particulates originating from road traffic, to a greater or lesser extent, the effect on public health is relatively significant.
iGene Passport
iGene offers you an insight into your personal risks of developing conditions and tells you whether limiting your exposure to air pollution may be particularly important for you to help prevent certain conditions. In addition, an iGene Passport provides you with information on what else you can do to reduce any risks. Here we focus on behaviour that will help you maximise the benefits to your health. In the publication below you can read more about what iGene can do for you.