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Global Climate Change and Its Impacts

ance. For example, certain antihypertensive drugs may inhibit sweating response, making it
harder for patients to maintain normal body temperature through evaporative cooling.
2. Children
Infants and preschool children have underdeveloped bodies with incomplete thermoreg-
ulatory systems, making them more prone to dehydration and heatstroke in high-temperature
environments. Particularly during outdoor activities, without proper protective measures like
sun hats and sunscreen, children can easily fall ill due to prolonged sun exposure.
3. Low-income populations
Economically disadvantaged families often reside in poorly ventilated homes lacking
air conditioning facilities, making it difficult to effectively combat high-temperature assaults.
Additionally, these individuals may face prolonged outdoor exposure due to work require-
ments, increasing their risk of heat-related illnesses. For those engaged in physical labor,
high-temperature work environments pose significant health challenges.
4. Chronic Disease Patients
Individuals with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and
kidney disorders are more prone to complications under high-temperature conditions. For
example, cardiac patients may experience arrhythmias or myocardial infarctions during hot
weather, while diabetics face increased difficulties in blood sugar control.

III. Health Threats Posed by Particulate Pollution

(1) Deterioration of Air Quality and Respiratory Diseases
Particulate pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and coarse particulate
matter (PM10), serves as a primary indicator of deteriorating air quality. These microscopic
particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, triggering a range
of health issues, especially respiratory diseases.
1.Acute Respiratory Infections
Short-term exposure to high concentrations of particulate pollution can irritate respi-
ratory tract mucosa and increase the risk of acute respiratory infections such as bronchitis
and pneumonia. Children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are particularly
vulnerable. For instance, during days of severe air pollution, emergency departments witness
significantly increased numbers of respiratory disease patients. Studies demonstrate that high
concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 directly irritate respiratory mucosa, triggering inflam-
matory responses and weakening the respiratory tract’s defense mechanisms. This facilitates
pathogens to invade the body more easily, leading to elevated infection rates.
2.Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Long-term exposure to particulate pollution may lead to chronic inflammatory respons-
es, damage lung tissue structure, and consequently develop into Chronic Obstructive Pulmo-
nary Disease (COPD). COPD is an irreversible condition that significantly impacts patients’
quality of life and life expectancy. Prolonged inhalation of fine particulate matter causes

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