Journal of Osh State University. Medicine
Journal of Osh State University. Medicine
e-ISSN 1694-8831
DOI: 10.52754/16948831
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The air crisis: The escalating effects of climate change on the respiratory system

Gavharoi Umurzakova, Aigul Momunova, Maurya Alok, Tiwari Anmol

Received 29.07.2025, Revised 10.11.2025, Accepted 17.12.2025

Abstract

Climate change is increasingly recognised as a serious threat to respiratory health, making it essential to understand how changing environmental conditions affect lung function and the pattern of respiratory diseases. This review aimed to summarise current scientific evidence on the effects of rising temperatures, altered weather patterns, and deteriorating air quality on the global burden of respiratory diseases. A comprehensive analysis of the latest peer-reviewed literature, including epidemiological studies, systematic reviews, and reports from international health organisations, was conducted. Climate-related environmental factors were analysed in relation to observed trends in respiratory health indicators. The findings indicated that climate-driven environmental changes have a substantial impact on respiratory health. Elevated concentrations of ground-level ozone, wildfire smoke, and fine particulate matter are consistently associated with increased respiratory symptoms and exacerbations of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Rising atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and altered seasonal cycles contribute to longer and more intense pollen seasons, increasing exposure to aeroallergens. Extreme weather events, including heatwaves, heavy precipitation, and flooding, promote indoor mould growth and heighten the risk of respiratory infections. The most vulnerable populations – particularly children, the elderly, and socio-economically disadvantaged communities – bear a disproportionately higher disease burden due to greater exposure and limited adaptive capacity. The results of this review provide a scientific basis for public health planning and clinical decision-making, and may inform targeted mitigation and adaptation strategies aimed at reducing climate-related respiratory risks among vulnerable populations


Keywords:

ground-level ozone; particulate matter; dust storms; aeroallergens; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; mitigation; adaptation

https://doi.org/10.52754/16948645_2025_4(2)_62

Retrieved from Vol. 4, No. 2, 2025

Pages 62-69

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Suggested citation

APA
Umurzakova, G., Momunova, A., Alok, M., & Anmol, T. (2025). The air crisis: The escalating effects of climate change on the respiratory system. Journal of Osh State University. Medicine, 4(2), 62-69. https://doi.org/10.52754/16948645_2025_4(2)_62
Vancouver
Umurzakova G, Momunova A, Alok M, Anmol T. The air crisis: The escalating effects of climate change on the respiratory system. J Osh State Univ Med. 2025;4(2):62–9. doi:10.52754/16948645_2025_4(2)_62