“Air Quality in Jalisco: Worsening Pollution and Health Risks”

In the first 110 days of the yearbetween January 1 and April 10, there are 41 episodes with poor air quality, an average of one event every three days. This means an environmental deterioration compared to last year, since in this same period 18 episodes had been documented, less than half.

There have also been 11 alerts and atmospheric emergencies. That of April 19, which was the most recent, it lasted nine hours and was caused by a forest fire in the El Totoltepec property, affecting the municipality of Tlajomulco de Zúñiga.

Another worrying indicator has to do with the duration of the events: 32 of the 41 pre-contingencies and contingencies have lasted more than 24 hours.

In all episodes, the predominant pollutant was PM10 particles.with the exception of an event at the Centro station, which recorded ozone as a pollutant.

Suspended particles with an aerodynamic diameter less than 10 microns (PM10) are also known as inhalable particles.

Exposure to PM10 is associated with reduced lung functionexacerbation of asthma and premature deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular conditions due to the fact that can reach deep into the lungs.

Short-term exposure increases respiratory symptoms, asthma, emergency room visits and hospitalizations for respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, as well as school absenteeism and days of restricted activity.

According to the federal Ministry of Health, The sources of these particles are the pollution generated by the combustion of cars, forest firesindustrial activities and agricultural burning, among others.

The Ministry of Environment and Territorial Development informs that ozone is a reactive, colorless gas with a pungent odor. occurs naturally in the stratospheric ozone layerlocated from 15 to 2 kilometers above sea level.

Regarding the effects on human health, it stands out that in high concentrations it is harmful to peoplesince it affects the respiratory system causing irritation, coughing, sore throat and/or uncomfortable sensation in the chest.

It can also aggravate asthma and inflame and damage the cells lining the lungs.

The main sources of ozone emission as a pollutant are vehicles that use fossil fuels, LP gas and natural gas leaks, industries and gas stations, according to the federal Ministry of Health.

CR