Air pollution and its impact on human health: An overview of the situation in the Republic of Serbia

Abstract

Air pollution has become a major global concern with profound implications for public health worldwide. Among the most significant air pollutants are particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, heavy metals, and ammonia, which have serious and wide-ranging effects on human health. Respiratory diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia, are frequently associated with air pollution, while the risk of developing other serious conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular problems is also elevated. Of particular concern is the exposure of children to air pollution, as their immune systems are not fully developed, and they spend more time outdoors, where pollution concentrations are often higher. In Serbia, as in many other countries, integrated intersectoral measures are necessary to reduce air pollution and protect the health of citizens. This paper aims to provide a basic overview of air pollution issues in Serbia and explore control and measurement measures to better understand the fundamental concepts and make progress in addressing this serious problem.