The Impact of Air Pollution on Health

Science for the Public: Contemporary Science Issues and Innovations
December 12, 2019 Belmont Media Center

Jonathan Levy, ScD, Professor and Chair, Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health

Dr, Levy discusses the increasing and serious health issues associated with air pollution, particularly in urban areas. Health and environmental scientists are particularly concerned about the effects of particulate matter (PM2.5), which enters the bloodstream via the lungs, on human health. The result is seen in rising rates of heart disease, asthma, and cognitive problems. Dr. Levy investigates the concentrations of urban pollution and other factors that contribute to health risks. He is active in the development of environmental solutions, including housing improvements.
Jonathan Levy is a member of several National Research Council committees, including the Committee on Science for EPA's Future, the Committee on Health Impact Assessment, and the Committee on Improving Risk Analysis Approaches Used by the US Environmental Protection Agency. He also served on the Advisory Council on Clean Air Compliance Analysis, which provided guidance to EPA on the impact of the Clean Air Act on health, the economy, and the environment.