Environment quality

Environmental quality refers to a set of properties and characteristics of the environment that have an impact on humans and other organisms, whether they are generalized or specific. Environmental quality encompasses both the natural and built environments, including air, water purity or pollution, noise, and the potential consequences of these characteristics on physical and mental health. People whose health is already compromised are most affected by poor environmental quality.

How does the quality of the environment impact health?

The environment has a direct impact on health and is a major factor in the quality of life, healthy years lived, and health disparities. Premature death, cancer, and long-term damage to the respiratory and cardiovascular systems have all been linked to poor air quality. In nonsmoking adults, secondhand smoke containing toxic and cancer-causing chemicals contributes to heart disease and lung cancer. Environmental factors are responsible for nearly a quarter of all deaths and the total disease burden worldwide. Cancer, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, and other illnesses are all linked to poor air quality. Poor water quality can cause gastrointestinal illness as well as a variety of other issues, such as neurological issues and cancer. Acute poisonings and other toxic effects can be caused by chemicals found in and around homes and workplaces.

Factors determining environment quality

A healthy community environment requires clean air, land, and water. Secondhand smoke, carbon monoxide, allergens, lead, and toxic chemicals all contribute to the development of disease and other health problems.

The health and quality of life by following a few factors such as

o   Environmental standards and regulations

o   Continuous monitoring of pollution levels

o   Human exposure to pollutants

o   Creating environments that support healthy lifestyles

Individual health and environmental quality are both influenced by the built environment (such as schools, parks, greenways, and transportation systems). Bicycling as a primary mode of transportation, for example, increases physical activity while reducing pollution and accidents caused by motor vehicles.

Tips to Protect yourself from air pollution