Medicosnext
Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) has embarked on an initiative to incorporate air pollution data into patient assessments, revolutionizing the way clinicians diagnose and manage illnesses. Inspired by the tragic case of Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, who succumbed to asthma exacerbated by air pollution. In 2020 Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah became the first person in the UK to have air pollution listed on her death certificate as a cause of death. This pilot scheme aims to empower medical professionals to address environmental factors impacting their patients’ health.
Under this scheme, patients’ electronic records now include data on average annual air pollution rates at their postcodes, specifically focusing on fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide levels. This information prompts clinicians to consider whether air pollution may be a contributing factor to a patient’s illness, particularly in cases of respiratory conditions like asthma. Mark Hayden, a critical care specialist at GOSH, spearheaded this initiative to bridge the knowledge gap regarding air pollution’s health effects. He recognized the importance of equipping clinicians with resources to engage families in discussions about minimizing exposure to harmful pollutants, emphasizing preventive measures alongside medical interventions. The success of this program has prompted its adoption by other prominent London hospitals, including the Evelina Children’s Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’, and King’s College hospitals. By embedding air pollution data into patient records, healthcare providers can better educate families about potential health risks and offer guidance on mitigating exposure.
Dr. Andrew Turnbull, a consultant respiratory pediatrician, highlights the significance of this initiative in fostering conversations about outdoor air pollution, complementing discussions on other environmental triggers of respiratory illnesses. While the complexities of respiratory diseases pose challenges in identifying singular causes, integrating air pollution data holds promise in enhancing patient care and understanding disease outcomes. As GOSH leads the way in integrating environmental health considerations into patient care, there is growing momentum for similar initiatives across healthcare settings. By empowering clinicians with comprehensive information, this pilot scheme represents a pivotal step towards safeguarding the health and well-being of patients, particularly vulnerable populations affected by respiratory conditions exacerbated by air pollution.
In Nepal, where urbanization and industrialization are on the rise, air pollution has emerged as a significant public health concern, potentially contributing to a myriad of diseases. The country’s rapidly growing urban centers, coupled with increasing vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and biomass burning for cooking and heating, have led to elevated levels of air pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2). Prolonged exposure to these pollutants has been linked to a wide range of health issues, including respiratory diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and respiratory infections. Addressing the complex interplay between air pollution and disease burden in Nepal necessitates comprehensive strategies encompassing regulatory measures, public awareness campaigns, and sustainable urban planning initiatives to mitigate the adverse health impacts of poor air quality.
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