According to the air quality data released by the Environmental Protection Department today, people in Tuen Mun, Yuen Long and Tung Chung districts were breathing the unhealthiest air in 2018.
Tuen Mun was the most polluted district for the fifth consecutive year, followed by Yuen Long in second place and Tung Chung in third.
Though overall air quality improved in 2018, hazardous ozone levels were at a record high in Hong Kong, according to the Environmental Protection Department. Ozone is the primary component of smog, created by a chemical reaction that occurs when sunlight interacts with particulates (soot) from motor vehicle exhaust, gasoline vapors, and dust from power plants. Ozone irritates the lung airways, exacerbating asthma and other lung ailments. Fine particles (PM10, PM2.5), widely considered the most dangerous of air pollutants, can penetrate deep into the lungs where they can cause inflammation and a worsening of the condition of people with heart and lung diseases. The World Health Organisation considers them a Group 1 carcinogen, proven to cause cancer in humans. These particulates can also cause bronchitis and are linked to birth defects.
There are nutraceuticals and medicinal herbs which support and strengthen lung function. Dr. Yik has helped numerous patients breathe easier in this polluted city of Hong Kong. If you are concerned about your health and would like to protect your respiratory system, discuss with your naturopathic doctor how you can support lung function and detoxification processes.
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