The Relationship Between Urban Air Pollution Exposure and the Risk of Respiratory Disorders in Road Transport Workers

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between urban air pollution exposure and the risk of respiratory disorders among road transport workers through a qualitative literature review. Urban air pollution, primarily caused by vehicular emissions, is a major environmental health risk, particularly in densely populated cities. Road transport workers, who are regularly exposed to high levels of traffic-related air pollution, experience a heightened risk of developing respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. This study reviews 10 peer-reviewed articles, published in the last two decades, focusing on the impact of urban air pollution on the respiratory health of transport workers. The review found consistent evidence that prolonged exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and other vehicular emissions contributes significantly to respiratory health issues in road transport workers. The findings of the studies reviewed demonstrate a clear correlation between traffic-related air pollution and the increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms among this occupational group. Despite the growing evidence, there remains a lack of targeted interventions to protect these workers from hazardous exposure. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the cumulative long-term effects of air pollution on transport workers' health, as well as the effectiveness of protective measures. This research serves as a call for improved occupational health policies and interventions aimed at reducing air pollution exposure for this vulnerable group.