Introducing air filters in classrooms has been shown to increase student attendance by over 10% and reduce sick days, highlighting a crucial step towards improving student health.
Air Filters in Classrooms Reduce Sick Days by More Than 10 Per Cent
The Impact of Indoor Air Pollution on Student Health
School attendance has been shown to increase when air filters are introduced into classrooms. A study conducted at five elementary schools in Milan, Italy, found that student attendance rose by 1.3 days per pupil per year after the installation of high-quality portable air purifiers.
Indoor air pollution is a significant health risk, affecting millions worldwide.
It's caused by the buildup of pollutants from sources like cooking fuels, cleaning products, and building materials.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), indoor air pollution leads to 4.2 million premature deaths annually.
Common pollutants include particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Symptoms range from headaches and fatigue to respiratory issues and cancer.
Reducing exposure by using HEPA filters, improving ventilation, and choosing eco-friendly products can mitigate risks.
How Do Air Filters Work?
The researchers behind the study used HEPA filters as a comparison to the high-quality portable air purifiers they installed. The team consisted of Stefania Renna from the Polytechnic University of Milan, who described the portable air purifiers as being better than traditional HEPA filters.
Reducing Sick Days and Boosting Attendance
The introduction of air filters into classrooms may be reducing levels of air pollution, pollen, pathogens, or a combination of these factors. This reduction in indoor air pollution has been shown to lead to an increase in student attendance. The study’s findings suggest that this is due to the improved air quality, which in turn reduces the risk of illness and absenteeism.
Air quality refers to the measure of pollutants and particles present in the atmosphere. It is a critical aspect of environmental health, affecting both human well-being and ecosystems. Common air pollutants include particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 92% of the world's population lives in areas where air quality exceeds WHO limits, leading to respiratory problems and other health issues. Improving air quality requires reducing emissions from vehicles, industries, and energy production.
Implications for Schools and Public Health
The results of this study have significant implications for schools and public health. By installing air filters into classrooms, schools can take a proactive approach to reducing indoor air pollution and promoting student health. This could lead to a reduction in sick days, improved attendance rates, and better overall well-being for students.
- newscientist.com | Air filters in classrooms reduce sick days by more than 10 per cent
