McGraw-Hill Connect Biology – Air Quality SmartBook Practice Test

Respiratory illnesses are indeed a key indicator of air quality because they are directly affected by the presence of pollutants in the air, such as particulate matter, ozone, and other harmful substances. Poor air quality can exacerbate existing respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) while also contributing to the development of new cases of these illnesses. Therefore, monitoring rates of respiratory illnesses can provide insights into the impact of air quality on public health.

In contrast, while heart disease, diabetes, and obesity are serious health concerns, they are influenced by a broader range of factors including lifestyle, genetics, and diet, rather than being directly tied to air quality. Thus, they do not serve as as clear an indicator of air pollution effects as respiratory conditions do.