Environmental factors

• Environmental Factors Affecting Development

  • Pollution exposure and possible health impact
  • Poor housing – causing health conditions
• Exposure to pollution can influence development and be a major source of ill health
• Types of pollution

  • Indoor household pollutants, including mould, cleaning products and central heating poisonous gases
  • Outdoor pollution from biofuels, car exhaust and allergens such as pollen
  • Noise pollution
• Noise pollution

  Can impact on sleep and overall well-being
• Respiratory Disorders caused by air pollution

  • Runny nose
  • Asthma
  • Exacerbation of previously-existing respiratory illness
  • Chronic illnesses including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and emphysema
• Inhaling air pollution

  Can cause pulmonary inflammation and oxidative stress, and the furring up of arteries and increases clotting
• Long-term (chronic) exposure to air pollutants is strongly linked to cases of heart disease and strokes
• Symptoms of allergic reactions to allergens

  • Mild
  • More severe
• Histamines are produced by the body as it reacts and there is a rise of antigens in the blood
• Over the counter antihistamines can be taken but in more serious cases, doctors can prescribe stronger antihistamines and a steroid inhaler
• The World Health Organisation (WHO) published a report showing the clear links between poor housing and an increase risk of people developing respiratory and cardiovascular health conditions as well as anxiety and depression
• Low income families may feel they are trapped and unable to change their circumstances and as family size increases there is the issue of over crowding
• Older people who rely on the state pension may fear that rising fuel costs
• In response they may not have their heating on all day or live in houses that have suitable insulation
• With little physical movement and a declining fat layer they are more susceptible to hypothermia, which can lead to death