Pollution Leads to Pneumonia?

A new study found that areas with higher levels of pollution also tend to have higher rates of death from such illnesses and diseases as pneumonia, cancer, and COPD.

While the author warns that more research is necessary, he believes the study clearly shows "a strong correlation" between air pollution and respiratory illness.  Social factors, such as smoking and deprivation, also contribute, and the researchers could make no division between car pollution and other chemical components.

Areas with the most deaths had higher levels of pollution, generally related to auto exhaust.  Pneumonia tended to be the major cause of death in these areas.

© C Harris Lynn, 2008