(August 16, 2024) – All you really need is air.
During a recent vacation in Costa Rica, I had the opportunity to experience a leisurely boat ride on the Tarcoles River towards the end of an impressive crocodile tour. As we passed a forest of mangrove trees, our guide casually mentioned that this species produces more oxygen than most other trees. A quick fact check confirmed this – each tree supplies the oxygen needs of up to four people! On top of that, they are masters of carbon storage.
There are several efforts underway around the world to preserve and enhance mangrove forests. These are easy to find with a quick Google search and deserve support. Breathing in the air so generously provided by the mangroves prompted reflection on the more insidious effects of polluted air.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines air pollution as “the presence in the atmosphere of one or more pollutants, such as dust, smoke, gas, mist, odor, fumes or vapors, in quantities and for prolonged periods of time that can harm human health.” When we breathe in these particles, they cause oxidative stress, inflammation, impaired immune system function and even cellular changes. Although the lungs are particularly vulnerable as an entry point, smaller particles (less than 2.5 micrometers), called particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5), can enter the bloodstream and travel to other organs.
According to the WHO, the diseases most strongly associated with exposure to air pollution are: “Stroke, ischemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, pneumonia and cataracts (household air pollution only).”
Recent research has also shown a worrying link between mental health and exposure to environmental pollutants in the air. PM2.5 in concentrations above 5 micrometers per cubic meter can pass through the olfactory nerve directly into brain tissue and cause significant damage.
Research shows that five years of exposure to high levels of air pollution can increase the risk of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Exposure to excessive air pollution is also linked to an increased risk of dementia, Parkinson’s disease and autism. The risks of PM2.5 are especially high for children because their young brains are still developing. Poor air quality can also increase the risk of developing bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and Axis II disorders.
Elevated indoor PM2.5 levels can also lead to poorer performance on cognitive tests. Studies indicate a link between children exposed to poor indoor air quality at school and deficits on math and reading comprehension tests. Driving less, using nontoxic cleaning products, and advocating for responsible urban planning are some actions we can take to make a difference in Contra Costa County, whose PM2.5 levels sometimes exceed healthy levels. We can also plant and care for trees, which often leads to a renewed relationship with nature. Consider joining the local gardening club (Clayton’s is wonderful!). Meet a mandragora and realize that sometimes all you need is the air you breathe…
Please send comments and questions to Nathalie Montijo at [email protected].
Nathalie Montijo
Nathalie Raven Archangel-Montijo has quite an interesting array of degrees and certifications, including a Master’s in Nursing and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). She holds a post-master’s certification as an Adult Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) and a license to practice acupuncture in California (L.Ac). To top it all off, she is certified in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC) and as a Hospice and Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner (ACHPN).
She also performs in the outlaw country band Nineteen Hand Horse.
