What is the impact of ground-level ozone on health?

Ground-level ozone can cause respiratory problems, trigger asthma, reduce lung function and cause lung diseases.

Ground-level ozone is a harmful air pollutant that is formed from reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. It is different from the ozone in the upper atmosphere, which protects us from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. Ground-level ozone, on the other hand, is harmful to breathe and can have a significant impact on our health.

One of the primary health effects of ground-level ozone is on the respiratory system. It can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and a sore or scratchy throat. It can also cause pain when taking a deep breath, and inflammation and damage to the airways. This can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a long-term condition that makes it difficult to breathe.

Ground-level ozone can also trigger asthma attacks. Asthma is a condition where the airways become inflamed and narrow, making it difficult to breathe. Exposure to ground-level ozone can cause the muscles around the airways to tighten, leading to an asthma attack. This can be particularly dangerous for people who already have asthma, as it can lead to hospitalisation or even death.

Furthermore, ground-level ozone can reduce lung function. This means that the lungs are not able to take in as much air as they normally would. This can make it difficult to carry out physical activities and can lead to fatigue. Over time, repeated exposure to ground-level ozone can cause permanent lung damage.

In summary, ground-level ozone is a harmful pollutant that can cause a range of health problems, particularly related to the respiratory system. It is therefore important to monitor air quality and limit exposure to this harmful gas.