CLIMATE CHANGE, AIR POLLUTION, AND RESPIRATORY HEALTH: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL INSIGHTS INTO CHRONIC BRONCHITIS

Abstract

Recent climate change has intensified concerns regarding the impact of extreme temperatures and fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) on respiratory health. This article synthesizes epidemiological evidence from Shanghai, China, applying time-series and case-crossover analyses to assess how temperature extremes and PM₂.₅ constituents drive AECB incidence. Cold temperatures exhibited prolonged lag effects, while short-term exposure to PM₂.₅ (particularly nitrate, sulfate, and ammonium) was strongly associated with hospital admissions. Findings highlight the synergistic interaction of climate variability and pollution, reinforcing the need for integrated public health strategies, early-warning systems, and adaptive clinical care in urban settings. The implications extend to climate–health policy, resource planning, and environmental regulation.