According to the study, as Stockholm’s air has become cleaner, the younger generation’s lungs have become more robust. Cleaner air could benefit everyone’s health, which could have ramifications for cities worldwide. The harmful health effects of air pollutants on children’s lungs are well documented, but little is known about the impact of changes in air quality on lung development.

The health of children’s lungs is critical for their future risk of developing chronic lung diseases. According to the study’s co-authors, air quality in Stockholm has improved over the last 20 years, leading to decreased air pollutants and improved air quality in the city’s lungs. Between 2016 and 2019, air pollution levels in Stockholm fell by 60%, and there was a 20% reduction in the risk of having impaired lung function. People who live in areas with lower levels of air pollution have better lung development in childhood and early adulthood.

Poor air quality has a significant impact on children’s lung function because their lung function develops throughout their lives. Improving air quality can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases in children in the future.

 

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Hsin-Yu Huang

UConn KIDS Research Assistant

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