Environmental Genetic Factors That Influence Health in Essay

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Environmental Genetic Factors That Influence Health in Le Roy, New York, 2011, a mysterious medical

The relationship between an environmental agent and a health problem discussed within this document is the effect of air pollution on asthma. This effect is certainly a noxious one, as certain air pollutions have been known to cause asthma in those who did not previously have this condition, exacerbate it in those that did, and induce asthma attacks. In researching this relationship it is necessary to provide a brief overview of both asthma and air pollution. It is also prudent to discuss some of the more salient health disparities that emerge within a population that is related to aspects of genetics or environment.

Asthma is the constriction of the respiratory system with mucus. It is a serious cause of childhood morbidity (Islam et al., 2007, p. 957). Symptoms of asthma include difficulty breathing and coughing, as well as "a burning feeling in the lungs" (EPA, no date, p. 1). It can even be fatal. Although there are numerous factors that can account for this condition, one of the most prevalent is air pollution. Additionally, it is worth noting that while there are measures individuals can take to mitigate the effects of asthma, particularly as they pertain to air pollution, there is no cure for this chronic condition. In addition to air pollutants, asthma may also be caused and worsened by exposure to other harmful things such as mold, roach feces, and generally unsanitary conditions. Air pollutants are contaminants in the air that cause a negative effect to both the air itself and to the people who breathe it. Despite the fact that there are numerous varieties of air pollutants, those that are most closely related to the causing of asthma include ozone, particularly that which arises from the exhaust from vehicles.

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Ozone is a crucial element of smog and is prevalent in major metropolitan areas including Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, and others (NRDC, 2005). Another eminent air pollutant is particle contamination, which includes vehicle exhaust, dust, smoke from fires, and other chemicals. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide are also known to contribute to air pollution, and to make asthma worse. The former comes from burning crude oil and coal,

The costs to society associated by asthma -- which is caused in no small measure by air pollutants, are considerable. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (2005), "30% of childhood asthma is due to environmental exposures, costing the nation $2 billion per year." There are also statistics that indicate that almost 2 million emergency room visits are attributed to asthma, and that workers require 12 million sick days and children need 14 million sick days from asthma each year (NRDC, 2005). Finally, it is worth noting that in regards to the relationship between these effects of asthma and air pollution" more than 159 million Americans -- over half the nation's population -- live in areas with bad air (NRDC, 2005).

The mortality rate for asthma is also a significant repercussion of this disease and its relationship with….....

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