Impacts of air pollution on the respiratory function of children in Santos, São Paulo

Abstract

Air pollution is one of the main environmental determinants of respiratory diseases, with a greater impact in urban areas. In Santos (SP), intense port activity, vehicle traffic, and geographical factors favor pollutant accumulation, increasing risks for children aged 0 to 12 years. This study aimed to evaluate the association between exposure to pollutants and children's respiratory function. Secondary data from DATASUS and CETESB, covering the period from 2016 to 2018, were analyzed. Results showed that higher levels of PM₂.₅, O₃, and NO₂ were associated with reduced lung function, increased respiratory symptoms, and more than 1,200 pediatric hospitalizations, accounting for 18% of the total. It is concluded that air pollution directly affects children's health, reinforcing the need for preventive public policies