The report “Impact of the urban environment on people’s health” published by the BIOMA Institute in collaboration with the Sanitas Chair of Health and Environment of the University of Navarra draws attention to an emerging reality: the Spanish population is facing a lower tolerance to cold after years of less severe winters. This adaptation, as the Sanitas La Moraleja University Hospital in Madrid explains through statements from its head of emergency services, Alfonso Marco Sanz, is accompanied by an increase in the severity of respiratory diseases, even in situations where the temperature does not reach extreme limits.
The same media reported that experts are emphasizing the importance of intensified preventative measures, especially among groups considered most at risk: children, older adults and people with a history of lung disease. The combination of cold and increased environmental pollutants is a key factor in worsening respiratory diseases, accelerating the onset of symptoms and exacerbating complications in people who already suffer from conditions such as asthma, bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
According to the report published by the BIOMA Institute and the Sanitas Chair, the lower ventilation and atmospheric stability typical of autumn favor the retention of pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10 microparticles, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and benzo(a)pyrene. As published by the Sanitas La Moraleja University Hospital, this accumulation increases respiratory irritation and increases susceptibility to cold, especially in residents of urban centers and suburban areas.
The report notes that winter thermal inversions further restrict air circulation, keeping pollutants near the ground and prolonging population exposure to pollutants. This situation increases the frequency and severity of respiratory diseases, according to information compiled by the European Environment Agency and cited by the Sanitas chairman, which shows that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) caused at least 239,000 deaths across the European Union in 2022.
Jesús Miguel Santamaría, director of the BIOMA Institute, told the media that “clean air is essential not only for public health but also to curb climate change.” The report states that major greenhouse gases – carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) – help retain heat in the atmosphere and alter normal weather patterns, negatively impacting air quality and the health of citizens.
As published in the report, Santamaría emphasized the urgency of promoting renewable energy, implementing energy efficiency improvements and transforming mobility systems. These measures aim to reduce concentrations of gases and associated pollutants, thereby reducing health risks and climate impacts.
The Chair of Health and Environment cited by the BIOMA Institute highlights a series of recommendations aimed at respiratory protection in times of greatest cold and pollution. Measures indicated include limiting outdoor activities on days when pollution levels exceed what is considered healthy, especially in people with a higher predisposition to complications.
The media also reported that physically protecting the nose and mouth with scarves or masks can help the inhaled air maintain appropriate temperature and humidity, thereby minimizing the effects of irritating particles. Experts also recommend using air purifiers with HEPA filters in homes and workplaces, as this technology reduces the presence of harmful substances in the home and work environment.
Indoor ventilation is another recommended guideline. According to the report, it should only be carried out at times when the quality of the outdoor air allows it, in order to favor a reduction in pollutants entering from outside, thus ensuring the maintenance of healthy conditions in homes and common areas.
Experts point out that updating flu and pneumococcal vaccines is of particular interest to patients with chronic respiratory diseases. As the Sanitas chairman reports, regular vaccination significantly reduces the risk of complications related to respiratory infections, which tend to recur in months of low temperatures and high air pollution.
The text disseminated by the media summarizes these guidelines in a comprehensive strategy, aimed both at the general population and at those with increased vulnerability, and promoting habits that help reduce the risk of exposure and the impact of harmful environmental factors on respiratory health.
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