PAPARAN UDARA LUAR DAN UDARA DALAM RUANGAN PADA SYSTEM PERNAPASAN

Abstract

The human respiratory system is a vital means by which the body takes in oxygen and releases carbon dioxide, essential for life. Air is essential for human life and plays a direct role in the breathing process. Good air quality contributes to the proper functioning of the respiratory system. However, in everyday life, humans are frequently exposed to unhealthy air, both outdoors and indoors. This study aims to analyze the types of outdoor and indoor air exposure that can affect the respiratory system, their impacts, and strategies to mitigate these negative effects. A qualitative literature study approach was used, exploring various relevant scientific sources on air and its relationship to the human respiratory system. The results showed that outdoor air is polluted by several sources, including emissions from motor vehicles (NO₂, CO, and PM2.5), industrial activities that produce SO₂ and O₃, and waste incineration, which releases hazardous particles. Indoor air can also be polluted by cigarette smoke, dust, chemical compounds such as formaldehyde and VOCs from household products, and poor ventilation. Exposure to polluted air can disrupt respiratory function, causing decreased lung capacity, acute respiratory infections (ARI), asthma, chronic bronchitis, and even chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To address this, several efforts can be implemented, such as improving air circulation, switching to clean fuels, increasing green areas, and raising public awareness of the importance of maintaining air quality. This research is expected to provide a deeper understanding of the relationship between air and the performance of the human respiratory system.