Blog #9

What health effects are clearly caused by common air pollutants? Too many to count on one hand,  Asthma, lung cancer, sarcoidosis, allergic rhinitis, COPD, exacerbation of any respiratory problems, some cardiac and endocrine diseases and neurogenic disease. 

• Were you aware of the effects on the immune system? Yes
• What steps can you take to reduce your impact on air quality? Some step we can take include moving to a more friendly environmental area if feasible,  keep vehicles smogged, burn fires only on designated days and designated places. Take steps to prevent forest fires.

2. Did you discover any environmental risks in your zip code or geographic area by utilizing the air quality assessment tools? Yes

• Who is responsible for regulating air quality-based in your community/country? EPA

3. Were the journal articles relevant to your current practice? YES

• How can you help mitigate the effects of particulate matter air pollution on your patients? I can tell my patients to wear masks when working with chemicals ans do so in a well ventilated space, run outside on healthy air day, monitor air quality in their region. 
• In terms of a pediatric population, how can you best educate parents on air quality? Keep children indoors on poor air quality days. Try not to have kids in the car during long car rides in heavy traffic.