The aim of this project was to advance our knowledge of how air pollution exposure, physical activity, and their interactions with one another affect children’s lung health in an urban environment. More specifically, the purpose of this study was to identify factors that support and hinder the healthy development of the lungs in children, and describe their underlying biological mechanisms. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the scope of this project was broadened throughout the project period to also assess how physical activity and air pollution exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic affect health in the adult population.
Air pollution levels are often higher, and the opportunities to engage in physical activity fewer in cities compared to rural areas. Physical activity is a must for the healthy development of children. For example, children with higher physical fitness have been shown to have better lung function compared to children who are less fit. What is unclear, however, are the relative risks and rewards of being physically active in an area with poor air quality. Breathing more frequently during physical activity can increase the number of inhaled pollutants and reduce lung function. Currently, only one in three 11 year-olds in meet the physical activity recommendations in Europe. This is, in part, a direct result of our changed living infrastructure. In the continuously growing urban centres in Europe, the number of parks, walking and cycling paths are often sacrificed for apartment complexes, high-rises, roadways, and vehicles. While these human-made changes to our landscape decrease the need and opportunities to be physically active, they also increase air pollution levels. We do not know yet how these human-made constructs in urban areas affect lung health directly, and indirectly by modifying physical activity levels and air pollution exposures.
Chronic respiratory disease continues to be a major burden on society. One in three Europeans will develop asthma between the ages of 5 and 80 years. Interestingly, asthma has become more common in children, especially in urban areas. Low lung function in childhood is viewed as a major risk factor in the development of chronic respiratory disease in adulthood. Air pollution exposure during pregnancy or childhood is thought to impair the development of the lungs. The identification of health risks due to air pollution has been challenging, because the term “air pollution” describes a constantly changing mixture of particles and gases. To better understand how air pollution affects lung health, we need to use advanced research models such as the exposome concept, that provide a broader view, accounting for a multitude of external and internal factors.
