DR. BRYAN CEPEDOZAFOR OCT 1, 2023Climate change and lung diseases(Part 1)The term “climate change” is becoming very popular today. For a change in the volume of the downpour of rain, people will say: “That is due to climate change.” For the floods happening in several parts of the country, and even in other countries, media announcements will say, “Those are caused by climate change.” For the sudden change in temperature from a very warm weather to a cold one, we say, “Climate change is the reason for the change of the season.” But have we ever pondered on some issues and concerns regarding climate change and lung diseases? Some other issues regarding the matter could include the following: How is climate change linked to an increase in respiratory diseases? How could the environment affect lung health? Can climate change cause asthma? How does climate change contribute to diseases in general? Can climate change affect the air we breathe? What are the factors that would affect the relationship between the environment and lung diseases? Can cold climate due to climate change trigger asthma?These and several other topics will be discussed in this column and in the succeeding editions that we will have.Books and publications will tell us that Ozone in the stratosphere, known as the “ozone layer,” occurs naturally and forms a “protective barrier that prevents ultraviolet sunlight (UV-B) radiation from the sun from reaching the Earth’s surface and harming plant and animal life”. This is commonly referred to as “good ozone.” Therefore, in layman’s language Ozone is normally seen in the atmosphere where it shields us from the harmful effect of the sun’s ultraviolet rays.The global warming brought about by climate change will facilitate the chemical reaction of nitrogen oxide and volatile organic compound (like those that come from car exhausts especially in the urban areas) thus creating ozone in the ground level. In warmer urban areas, more people are exposed to ground ozone leading to respiratory symptoms.Take note that breathing ozone can cause inflammation in the airways and lungs, making our lungs more susceptible to bacterial infection.Take note, further, that ozone induced inflammation can amplify the ill effects of air pollutant like pollen, molds and dust. The higher the level of ground ozone, the higher the airway inflammation and respiratory symptomsWe have to know that spikes in ground level ozone are associated with worsening symptoms of rhinitis, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In 2019, 11% deaths from COPD were due to ozone exposure.We have to know, further, that upper respiratory tract infection and pneumonia are also increased among individuals who are exposed to high ozone level.The rising temperature due to climate change causes increase in concentration of pollen, ragweed and other allergens. Patient with asthma, COPD and bronchiectasis are expected to suffer more as a result of climate change since they have more sensitive lungs than the general population. (TO BE CONTINUED)