The Health-Related and Learning Performance Effects of Air Pollution and Other Urban-Related Environmental Factors on School-Age Children and Adolescents—A Scoping Review of Systematic Reviews

Abstract

Purpose of Review This scoping review aims to assess the impact of air pollution, traffic noise, heat, and green and blue space exposures on the physical and cognitive development of school-age children and adolescents. While existing evidence indicates adverse effects of transport-related exposures on their health, a comprehensive scoping review is necessary to consolidate findings on various urban environmental exposures’ effects on children’s development. Recent Findings There is consistent evidence on how air pollution negatively affects children’s cognitive and respiratory health and learning performance, increasing their susceptibility to diseases in their adult life. Scientific evidence on heat and traffic noise, while less researched, indicates that they negatively affect children’s health. On the contrary, green space exposure seems to benefit or mitigate these adverse effects, suggesting a potential strategy to promote children’s cognitive and physical development in urban settings. Summary This review underscores the substantial impact of urban exposures on the physical and mental development of children and adolescents. It highlights adverse health effects that can extend into adulthood, affecting academic opportunities and well-being beyond health. While acknowledging the necessity for more research on the mechanisms of air pollution effects and associations with heat and noise exposure, the review advocates prioritizing policy changes and urban planning interventions. This includes minimizing air pollution and traffic noise while enhancing urban vegetation, particularly in school environments, to ensure the healthy development of children and promote lifelong health.

Navigating Smog: Legislation Addressing Children’s Right to Health in India and Pakistan

“…Parents, teachers, and other caretakers need to be educated about the dangers of pollution and the steps they may take to safeguard children. Society may demand tighter application and enforcement of the law if more effort is made to educate the public (Roche et al, 2024).…”