11 July, 2024 | Online

17:00-18:00 CEST

Chairs: Prof. Venerino Poletti (Forli, Italy), Dr Asmita A. Mehta (Kochi (Kerala), India)
Speakers: Dr Lucilla Piccari (Barcelona, Spain), Dr Athina Trachalaki (London, United Kingdom), Prof. Dr Torsten Gerriet Blum (Berlin, Germany), Prof. Dr Francesca Polverino (Houston, United States)

Overview

Air pollution stands as a critical public health concern, ranking as the fourth leading risk factor for morbidity and mortality worldwide. Alarmingly, 99% of the global population resides in regions where air pollution exceeds the WHO recommended levels. Annually, seven million lives are claimed due to air pollution-related causes, exacerbating existing health disparities and disproportionately impacting marginalized communities.

Of particular concern are respiratory patients, who face heightened vulnerability to the adverse effects of air pollution. Research underscores a direct correlation between higher pollution levels and increased incidence, progression, and exacerbations of respiratory conditions.

This webinar aims to delve into the intricate relationship between air pollution, climate change and respiratory health. By elucidating the interconnectedness of these phenomena, we seek to raise awareness regarding the profound health implications of poor air quality and advocate for the implementation of stringent clean air policies across Europe. Join us as we strive to empower individuals and communities to champion the cause of clean air and safeguard public health.

Educational aims

During this session, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted impact of air pollution on respiratory health within the context of chronic lung conditions. Specifically, we will explore:

• The interplay between air pollution, climate change, and the intensification of pollen seasons, elucidating the interconnectedness of these environmental factors and their implications for respiratory health.
• The direct and indirect effects of air pollution on chronic respiratory conditions, including exacerbations, disease progression, and overall healthcare outcomes.
• By delving into these topics, participants will not only enhance their awareness of the intricate relationship between air pollution and respiratory health but also gain valuable insights into potential strategies for mitigating these effects and improving patient care within the respiratory community.

Topics

• Climate Change in Pulmonary Vascular Disease - Lucilla Piccari
• Atmospheric pollution and Pulmonary Fibrosis? - Athina Trachalaki
• Atmospheric pollution in Lung Cancer - Torsten Gerriet Blum
• The links of climate change and air pollution to COPD - Francesca Polverino

Learning objectives

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of the intricate mechanisms through which atmospheric pollution and climate change exacerbate respiratory diseases such as COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and lung cancer.
• Analyze epidemiological evidence and scientific literature to synthesize the direct and indirect impacts of atmospheric pollution and climate change on the pathogenesis, progression, and exacerbation of respiratory conditions, including COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and lung cancer

Target audience

• Respiratory physicians
• Respiratory trainees
• General Practitioners
• Paediatricians
• Patients

Learning outcomes

After this webinar, participants should be able to

• Critically assess the health effects of air pollution on chronic lung conditions
• Recognise the link between to air pollution and increasing incidence of chronic respiratory conditions.
• Describe how air pollution is associated with intensified pollen seasons and subsequent airway disease exacerbations