Why are children more susceptible to air pollution compared to adults?

Why are children more susceptible to air pollution compared to adults?

• A. They are less active
• B. They have developing respiratory systems
• C. They breathe less air relative to body weight
• D. They have stronger immune systems

Answer: (B)

Children are more susceptible to air pollution primarily because they have developing respiratory systems. During childhood, the lungs and airways are still maturing and are more vulnerable to harmful substances present in polluted air. This immaturity can lead to a higher risk of respiratory issues and long-term damage as their bodies are still growing and adapting. While factors like activity levels and body weight relative to air intake are important, the key issue lies in the fact that a child's respiratory system is not fully developed. This means that even lower levels of air pollutants can have a significant impact on their health compared to adults, whose respiratory systems are fully developed and can often handle pollutants more effectively. Additionally, children's stronger immune systems do provide some protection, but this is not the primary reason for their heightened susceptibility to air pollution.

Children are more susceptible to air pollution primarily because they have developing respiratory systems. During childhood, the lungs and airways are still maturing and are more vulnerable to harmful substances present in polluted air. This immaturity can lead to a higher risk of respiratory issues and long-term damage as their bodies are still growing and adapting.

While factors like activity levels and body weight relative to air intake are important, the key issue lies in the fact that a child's respiratory system is not fully developed. This means that even lower levels of air pollutants can have a significant impact on their health compared to adults, whose respiratory systems are fully developed and can often handle pollutants more effectively. Additionally, children's stronger immune systems do provide some protection, but this is not the primary reason for their heightened susceptibility to air pollution.