Impact of Air Pollution on Allergic Diseases.
10.3904/kjim.2011.26.3.262
- Author:
Hajime TAKIZAWA
1
Author Information
1. Department of Respiratory Medicine, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan. htakizawa-alg@umin.ac.jp
- Publication Type:Review ; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
- Keywords:
Air pollutants;
Antioxidant;
Asthma;
Vehicle emissions;
Particulate matter
- MeSH:
Air Pollutants/*adverse effects;
Animals;
*Environmental Exposure;
Gene-Environment Interaction;
Humans;
Hypersensitivity/epidemiology/*etiology/genetics/metabolism/prevention & control;
Oxidative Stress;
Risk Assessment;
Risk Factors
- From:The Korean Journal of Internal Medicine
2011;26(3):262-273
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The incidence of allergic diseases in most industrialized countries has increased. Although the exact mechanisms behind this rapid increase in prevalence remain uncertain, a variety of air pollutants have been attracting attention as one causative factor. Epidemiological and toxicological research suggests a causative relationship between air pollution and the increased incidence of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and other allergic disorders. These include ozone, nitrogen dioxide and, especially particulate matter, produced by traffic-related and industrial activities. Strong epidemiological evidence supports a relationship between air pollution and the exacerbation of asthma and other respiratory diseases. Recent studies have suggested that air pollutants play a role in the development of asthma and allergies. Researchers have elucidated the mechanisms whereby these pollutants induce adverse effects; they appear to affect the balance between antioxidant pathways and airway inflammation. Gene polymorphisms involved in antioxidant pathways can modify responses to air pollution exposure. While the characterization and monitoring of pollutant components currently dictates pollution control policies, it will be necessary to identify susceptible subpopulations to target therapy/prevention of pollution-induced respiratory diseases.
