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Air pollution is a serious problem that affects us all, but perhaps none more so than our children. With their bodies still developing and their immune systems not yet fully matured, children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of air pollution. Additionally, they breathe more quickly and spend more time outdoors, which puts them at greater risk of exposure to air pollution. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), air pollution is responsible for seven million deaths every year. This is a frightening statistic that highlights just how important it is for us to take action to protect ourselves and our children from the dangers of air pollution.

In many low- and middle-income countries across the globe, 98% of all children under the age of 5 are breathing air that exceeds the WHO recommended air quality levels, and Malaysia is not an exception. With the rapid urbanisation and industrialisation, air pollution has become a significant concern in Malaysia. Exposure to high levels of air pollution can lead to a range of health problems for children, including respiratory diseases like asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Air pollution can also worsen existing respiratory conditions, making it harder for children to breathe. Some examples of pre-existing respiratory conditions in children include asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. Exposure to air pollution can trigger asthma attacks, cause inflammation in the airways, and worsen symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. In addition, air pollution can exacerbate bronchitis, which is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, and worsen symptoms such as coughing and difficulty breathing. Children with allergies may experience worsened symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose due to exposure to pollutants in the air. Exposure to air pollution has also been linked to cognitive development issues, such as lower IQ scores and developmental delays. Furthermore, air pollution can have negative effects on children's cardiovascular health, increasing their risk of heart disease and stroke later in life. Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy can have long-term consequences, including low birth weight in newborns. Studies have shown that air pollution can lead to adverse effects on fetal development and increase the risk of complications such as preterm birth. 

To understand how air pollution affects children's health in Malaysia, researchers have conducted several studies. One study conducted in a natural gas industrial area found that exposure to ambient air pollution was associated with an increased risk of hospital admission for respiratory diseases, which could be linked to the burning of natural gas in the area. Another study found that children who live near busy roads have higher levels of a histone H3 in their bodies, which can also cause respiratory problems. Histone H3 is a type of protein that helps package DNA in cells. It plays a role in regulating the activity of genes, which can affect how cells function and develop. Most children in Malaysia’s urban areas are driven to school, which means they may breathe in a lot of pollution while waiting in the car line. Cyclists who ride to school may also be exposed to a lot of pollution. But researchers say that children may actually be exposed to the most pollution while they are inside the classroom all day. To reduce children's exposure to pollution, researchers suggest making some changes to schools. For example, schools could be designed and maintained in a way that reduces pollution. Playgrounds could be built in areas with cleaner air, and roads leading to schools could be re-routed to reduce traffic. By making these changes, we can help protect the health of our children.

As individuals, we can take steps to minimize our exposure to air pollution and protect our health. Here are some examples:

1.    Choose public transportation or carpool: Reducing the number of vehicles on the road can help decrease air pollution. Consider using public transportation, carpooling, or walking/biking whenever possible.

2.  Avoid burning: Burning trash, leaves, and other materials can release harmful pollutants into the air. Instead, find alternative ways to dispose our waste.

3.    Don’t smoke: Cigarette smoke is a major contributor to air pollution. Quitting smoking can not only improve your health but also help reduce air pollution.

4.   Use energy-efficient appliances: Energy-efficient appliances use less electricity and can help reduce air pollution from power plants.

5.    Plant trees and vegetation: Trees and vegetation help to absorb pollutants and can improve air quality in urban areas.

6.   Monitor air quality: Check air quality reports in your area and plan outdoor activities accordingly. Consider purchasing an air purifier for your home if you live in an area with consistently poor air quality.

By taking these steps, individuals and communities can help reduce air pollution and promote better health outcomes for ourselves and future generations. It is important for both the public and the government to take action to reduce air pollution and protect the environment.