|
Indicator code: RPG3_Air_E2
This fact sheet gives an overview of mortality in early childhood due to respiratory diseases in Poland and its changes between 1999 and 2006. It provides information about possible links with environment-related risk factors and relevant policy action.
Respiratory illness is the most common cause of childhood morbidity. Infants and small children are especially vulnerable because of physiological features (maturation of immunological system), physical activity, method of feeding in the first months of their lives. Pollutants and allergens in ambient and indoor air (due for example to use of solid fuel, tobacco smoke and dust), as well as infectious agents, are among the causes of several respiratory illnesses. Diet, lifestyle, other environmental and social factors may also be important. Studies found a positive association between the level of air pollutants and mortality in children due to respiratory causes.
National policies (National Health Program 2007-2015) have been established in addition to international strategies (EU directives, RPG III of the CEHAPE) to prevent and reduce respiratory diseases from outdoor and indoor air pollution. The quality of the indoor and ambient air is regulated by decrees of Ministry of Environment.
In the period 1999-2006, the infant mortality rate from respiratory diseases has been continuously decreasing. In 2006, on average 2,2% of post-neonatal mortality is due to respiratory diseases, with an attributable mortality rate of 0,13 per 1000 live births. There is a wide temporal and spatial variation of the mortality rate between various regions of Poland (ranging from 0 to 0,35 per 1000 live births). The spatial variation does not however correspond to the distribution of the average ambient air pollution levels. Average annual data also do not reflect seasonal, short-lasting peaks in levels of air pollutants, which may result in increases in respiratory system disorders. The significance of this indicator for smaller areas such as Polish provinces is low due to the small number of post-neonatal deaths from respiratory diseases (less than 4 deaths per year on average per province).
| 
