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Climate change and air pollution are intricately linked, posing significant threats to respiratory health worldwide. As global temperatures rise, the composition and distribution of airborne pollutants change, leading to an increase in respiratory diseases. Understanding this connection is crucial for developing effective strategies to protect public health.
The Interplay Between Climate Change and Air Pollution
Climate change contributes to the alteration of air quality in several ways:
- Increased Ground-Level Ozone: Higher temperatures accelerate the formation of ground-level ozone, a key component of smog. This pollutant exacerbates respiratory conditions such as asthma and decreases lung function.
- Particulate Matter (PM) Elevation: Climate-induced phenomena like wildfires and droughts increase the concentration of particulate matter in the air. Fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to chronic respiratory issues and other health problems.
- Allergen Proliferation: Changes in climate patterns affect the distribution and potency of allergens, including pollen and mould spores, potentially leading to a rise in allergic respiratory diseases.
Health Impacts on Respiratory Systems
The combined effects of climate change and air pollution have profound implications for respiratory health:
- Exacerbation of Asthma: Exposure to increased air pollutants and allergens can trigger asthma attacks and worsen symptoms in individuals with pre-existing conditions.
- Increased Incidence of Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Long-term exposure to polluted air is linked to the development of diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer.
- Vulnerability of At-Risk Populations: Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of deteriorating air quality.
ClimAIr: Addressing the Challenge
The ClimAIr project aims to tackle these pressing issues by enhancing our understanding of the relationships between climate change, air pollution, and respiratory health. Utilising Artificial Intelligence (AI), ClimAIr analyses data on greenhouse gas levels, air pollutants, and respiratory disease prevalence to develop predictive models and intervention strategies.
By employing federated learning techniques, the project ensures patient privacy while creating robust AI models. The interdisciplinary team collaborates across research centres, AI experts, social scientists, and policymakers to translate findings into actionable solutions for improving public health outcomes.
Through its innovative approach, ClimAIr strives to mitigate the impact of environmental changes on respiratory health, contributing to a healthier future in the face of evolving climate challenges.