Queimadas e saúde da criança: rumo a um país inabitável?
Brazil faces a severe environmental crisis due to wildfires, whose consequences deeply affect the environment and public health. In 2024, fires reached alarming levels, resulting in the worst air quality ever recorded in São Paulo. The pollution generated exacerbates health risks, particularly for c...
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria
2024-12-01
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| Series: | Residência Pediátrica |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://cdn.publisher.gn1.link/residenciapediatrica.com.br/pdf/v14n4-pov.pdf |
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| Summary: | Brazil faces a severe environmental crisis due to wildfires, whose consequences deeply affect the environment and public health. In 2024, fires reached alarming levels, resulting in the worst air quality ever recorded in São Paulo. The pollution generated exacerbates health risks, particularly for children under five, who are more vulnerable. Among the pollutants produced by the fires, the fine inhalable particulate matter stands out, as it penetrates deeply into the lungs, causing inflammation and increasing the incidence of respiratory diseases, such as asthma exacerbations, bronchitis, and other chronic respiratory conditions. It also heightens the likelihood of pneumonia, colds, sinusitis, tracheitis, tonsillitis, conjunctivitis, irritability, nighttime coughing, anorexia, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. In addition to compromising physical health, pollution from the fires affects mental and cardiovascular health, increasing demand for healthcare services. It also contributes to epigenetic changes that can impact health throughout life. The current crisis highlights the urgent need for public policies that reduce wildfires and protect vulnerable groups, especially children. Pediatricians play a crucial role in monitoring the effects of pollution, diagnosing respiratory diseases, and advising families on preventive measures during contamination peaks. Furthermore, they can advocate for public policies that promote healthier and more sustainable environments, ensuring proper care for children in the face of these risks. Effective measures are essential to prevent us from heading toward an uninhabitable country. |
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| ISSN: | 2236-6814 |