The Relationship Between Air Pollution and Increased Respiratory Diseases Air pollution is one of the most significant environmental and health challenges of the modern era, with increasing emission rates resulting from industrial activities, transportation, and the burning of fossil fuels. Recent studies indicate a strong correlation between deteriorating air quality and these factors. 1. Components of Polluted Air and Their Effects on the Respiratory System Polluted air consists of a range of harmful particles and gases, such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulfur and nitrogen oxides, ground-level ozone, and carbon monoxide. These pollutants are characterized by their ability to penetrate the respiratory system to varying degrees. Fine particulate matter, for example, can reach deep into the respiratory system.