eople killed annually in the US could be over 50,000. Spills can cause skin irritations and rashes. Noise pollution induces hearing loss, high blood pressure, stress, and sleep disturbance. Mercury has been linked to developmental deficits in children and neurologic symptoms. Older people are majorly exposed to diseases induced by air pollution. Those with heart or lung disorders are under additional risk. Children and infants are also at serious risk. Lead and other heavy metals have been shown to cause neurological problems.humans and animals can suffer from various health problems including viruses, cancer, and deformities due to the effects of pollution. Many birth defects are believed to be the result of pollution and the mother being exposed to forms of contamination during the development of the fetus. This can also occur for the young of animals in the wild even though it isn't as widely spreaded. br/>
Air
PollutantHealth EffectEnvironmental EffectCarbon MonoxideReduces ability of blood to bring oxygen to body cells and tissues; cells and tissues need oxygen to work. Carbon monoxide may be particularly hazardous to people who have heart or circulatory (blood vessel) problems and people who have damaged lungs or breathing passagesLeadBrain and other nervous system damage; children are at special risk. Some lead-containing chemicals cause cancer in animals. Lead causes digestive and other health problems.Lead can harm wildlifeGround Level OzoneBreathing problems, reduced lung function, asthma, irritates eyes, stuffy nose, reduced resistance to colds and other infections, may speed up aging of lung tissueOzone can damage plants and trees; smog can cause reduced visibilityNitrogen Oxides (NOx) Lung damage, illnesses of breathing passages and lungs (respiratory system) Nitrogen dioxide is an ingredient of acid rain (acid aerosols), which can damage trees and lakes. Acid aerosols can reduce visibility.Particulate MatterNose and throat irritation, lung damage, bronchitis, early deathParticulates are the main source of haze that reduces visibilitySulfur Oxides (SOx) Breathing problems, may cause permanent damage to lungsSO2 is an ingredient in acid cause permanent damage rain (acid aerosols), which can to lungs damage trees and lakes. Acid aerosols can also reduce visibility.Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) In addition to ozone (smog) effects, many VOCs can cause serious health problems such as cancer and other effects.In addition to ozone (smog) effects, some VOCs such as formaldehyde and ethylene may harm plants.
Water
PollutantHealth EffectContaminated SedimentMetals, PAHs, and organics listed above are toxic to various plants and animals, including people. These contaminants tend to biomagnify as they travel up the food chain. All have been linked to health problems in people.Disinfection By productsAcute and chronic gastroint...
