Jerome Watson – SCMP – Updated on Apr 28, 2008
Even short-term exposure to heavy smog for as little as 24 hours is clearly linked to premature deaths, says the US National Academy of Sciences in a report based on a review of health studies. The risk is probably higher for long-term chronic exposure, but further studies are needed, concludes the 13-member panel. However, there is “strong evidence that short-term exposure … can exacerbate lung conditions, causing illness and hospitalisation and can potentially lead to death”, AP reports.