NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ON THE HEALTH OF FREQUENTLY ILL CHILDREN

Аннотация

This scientific article provides comprehensive information on the impact of environmental pollution on children's health. Pollution of the environment— particularly air, water, and soil—can weaken children's immune systems and contribute to respiratory diseases, allergies, and other chronic illnesses. The article discusses scientific research findings on these environmental effects and offers recommendations for mitigating their negative impacts. Key words: Children's health, environmental pollution, air quality, water quality, soil pollution, immune system, respiratory diseases, allergies, chronic diseases. Introduction: In today's era of advanced science and technology, the biosphere is becoming increasingly polluted. As a result, humans are often forced to live under unfavorable ecological conditions shaped by various global, regional, and local geoecological problems. Pollution and degradation of air, water, soil, and food products are leading to the spread of diseases, reduction in life expectancy, and higher mortality rates—especially among infants. In essence, while humanity continues to develop industrial power, it often neglects to understand the environmental and socio-economic consequences of such progress [1]. 71-son 3 –to’plam May 2025 Sahifa: 56 Ustozlar uchun pedagoglar.org Main Part: Impact of Environmental Pollution on Children’s Health: Air Pollution: Harmful substances in the atmosphere—such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide—can lead to respiratory illnesses, asthma, and allergic reactions. Studies show that air pollution is responsible for 31% of global deaths caused by lung diseases.  Respiratory diseases: Dust and chemical pollutants cause bronchitis, asthma, and difficulty breathing in children.  Chronic lung diseases: Long-term exposure to polluted air impairs lung development.  Weakened immunity: Air pollutants lower resistance to infections. Water Pollution: Chemicals and microorganisms in drinking water can cause gastrointestinal disorders, skin and eye infections, and more. Contaminated water with heavy metals may impair brain development in children.  Intestinal infections: Pathogens in dirty water cause diarrhea and dehydration.  Cancer risks: Heavy metals like lead and mercury affect the nervous system and developmental processes.  Skin diseases: Chemical pollutants in water cause eczema and dermatitis. Soil Pollution: Chemicals and heavy metals in soil negatively impact children's growth. Direct contact during play can result in skin or respiratory exposure to toxic substances.  Toxic exposure: Pesticides and chemicals cause poisoning.  Developmental problems: Lead and cadmium affect brain function and concentration.  Chronic diseases: Pollutants entering the food chain can cause long- term illnesses. 71-son 3 –to’plam May 2025 Sahifa: 57 Ustozlar uchun pedagoglar.org Preventive Measures: To protect children's health, it is essential to safeguard the environment. Actions include reducing pollution, adopting eco-friendly technologies, promoting ecological awareness, and encouraging healthy lifestyles. Effects of Environmental Hazards on Frequently Ill Children: 1.Respiratory diseases: Air pollution triggers asthma and bronchitis. Second-hand smoke is particularly harmful. 2. Weakened immunity: Chemicals and toxins weaken immune defenses, leading to frequent infections. 3. Allergic reactions: Air, soil, and water pollution causes skin allergies, eczema, and itching. 4. Chronic diseases: Heavy metals in water impair brain development and learning. Long-term exposure also increases cardiovascular disease risk. 5. Cancer risk: Carcinogens in soil and air (e.g., pesticides, formaldehyde) increase tumor risk. 6. Psychological and physical development issues: Environmental stressors (noise, poor living conditions) contribute to anxiety and sleep disorders. Lead exposure can reduce IQ. 7. Infectious diseases: Microbes in water and soil cause gastrointestinal infections. Poor sanitation exacerbates outbreaks. 8. Digestive system issues: Chemical contaminants lead to ulcers and liver diseases. Dirty water causes diarrhea and dehydration. 9. Increased child mortality: Pneumonia and respiratory illnesses contribute significantly to child deaths globally. 2023 Statistics on Environment-Related Diseases in Children (Uzbekistan Ministry of Health): 71-son 3 –to’plam May 2025 Sahifa: 58 Ustozlar uchun pedagoglar.org Type of Disease Number of Affected Children Share of Total (%) Respiratory diseases 12,500 40% Allergic reactions 7,500 24% Gastrointestinal diseases 5,000 16% Skin diseases 3,750 12% Other diseases 2,500 8% According to the statistical data of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan, 2023: As shown in this table, respiratory diseases are the most common among children due to environmental factors, accounting for 40% of overall illnesses. Allergic reactions rank second at 24%. Gastrointestinal diseases make up 16%, skin diseases 12%, and