Issue link: https://hi.iaq.net/i/670243
In many areas, we need more research to improve our understanding of the impact of air pollution on our health, economy and communities. 10 Define the economic impact of air pollution. Air pollution damages not only our physical health, but also our economic wellbeing. We need further research into the economic impact of air pollution, and the potential economic benefits of well-designed policies to tackle it. 11 Quantify the relationship between indoor air pollution and health. We must strengthen our understanding of the relationship between indoor air pollution and health, including the key risk factors and effects of poor air quality in our homes, schools and workplaces. A coordinated effort among policymaking bodies will be required to develop and apply any necessary policy changes. 12 Determine how global trends are affecting air quality. From increased energy production and consumption to global economic development and urbanisation, we need to improve our understanding of how major social and economic trends are affecting air quality and its twin threat, climate change. 13 Develop new technologies to improve air pollution monitoring. We need better, more accurate and wider-ranging monitoring programmes so that we can track population-level exposure to air pollution. We also need to develop adaptable monitoring techniques to measure emerging new pollutants, and known pollutants that occur below current concentration limits. We must develop practical technology – such as wearable 'smart' monitors – that empower individuals to check their exposure and take action to protect their health. 14 Study the effects of air pollution on health. To appreciate fully the risk to health, we need further research on air pollution's effects on the body. In addition to lung and cardiovascular disease, research into the adverse health effects of pollution should accommodate systemic effects such as obesity, diabetes, changes linked to dementia, and cancer, as well as effects on the developing fetus and in early childhood. xvi © Royal College of Physicians 2016 Every breath we take: the lifelong impact of air pollution