Outdoor air pollution. Asthma and other concerns.

Despite governmental efforts to improve the quality of outdoor air, a significant number of children growing up in the US are exposed to airborne pollutants. It is now recognized that infants generally at risk for atrophy when exposed to specific environmental airborne pollutants are more likely to develop asthma. Once asthma is established, airborne pollutants are important triggers in causing exacerbations. Airborne ozone and suspended articles are the two most important criteria pollutants with respect to exposure prevalence and suspected adverse health effects in US children. Pediatricians should be involved both in community advocacy programs to improve air quality and as knowledgeable practitioners in discussing practical air pollution avoidance strategies with patients and their families.