Responding to new research that shows toxic air pollution particles can reach the lungs and brains of foetuses, Harriet Wilson-Edwards, Senior Policy and Project Manager at Asthma + Lung UK, said:
“We’ve long said that air pollution follows us from the cradle to the grave. Now this new research reinforces that air pollution is so dangerous that it can damage a baby’s health before they are even born.
“Our previous research shows that around 250,000 babies are born every year into maternity units surrounded by high pollution. This means that even a newborn baby’s first breath could be contaminated by air so dirty it could contribute to a lifetime of health problems. Many of these children are then forced to grow up, learn and play in schools and nurseries that could also be surrounded by high pollution.
“Air pollution and the effects it has on our health cannot and should not be overstated. Toxic air causes lung cancer, triggers existing conditions and is ultimately responsible for 36,000 premature deaths in the UK every year. We need to see strong leadership from government to tackle this issue and to commit to bolder air pollution targets this month as they finalise the Environment Act, before a new generation of babies and children are forced to grow up breathing dirty, polluted air.”