The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported findings that suggest pollution is a major factor in 25% of the deaths of children. Report. Logic suggests that a polluted environment has a disparate affect on children's health. Pollution. Second hand smoke, smog and unsafe water are thought to be related to as much as 25% of the deaths of children
under age five. "[Young children's]
developing organs and immune systems, and smaller bodies and airways,
make them especially vulnerable to dirty air and water," said WHO
Director-General Margaret Chan.
Statistics suggest that 570,000 children died with respiratory infections like pneumonia that were attributable to second-hand smoke and/or pollution. Data suggests that 361,000 were killed by diarrhea attributable to unclean water and/or improper sanitation. 270,000 premature infants died in their first month. A significant percentage of this group was also adversely effected by unclear water and air.
WHO indicates that electronic waste that exposes children to mercury, lead and other toxins also kills children. Climate change which has increased pollen counts may also be "associated with increased rates of asthma in children," according to WHO. Assuming these statistics are correct, who is going to step up and stop this silent killer?
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