Respiratory diseases caused by air pollutants

The rate of respiratory system diseases in humans is continually increasing worldwide. This increase correlates with a decline in air quality. Increased air pollution worldwide is a major contributing factor to air pollution affecting the human respiratory system, resulting from both human and natural activities. However, in the modern era, air pollution caused by human activities, including transportation, industry, and land clearing, plays a more significant role in respiratory system disturbances among humans. These disturbances occur when the general population and workers in specific workplaces inhale air pollutants. This chapter provides an in-depth exploration of the physiology of the respiratory system, which is primarily affected by various types of air pollutants. Additionally, it discusses the effects of air pollution and summarizes the respiratory system diseases observed in the general population, workers, and vulnerable groups. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights are reserved.