Ambiente e pulm？o

the human body is exposed to different environmental aggressions; accidents, physical, chemical, and microbiological agents are a permanent risk. the respiratory system is particularly exposed to environmental aggressions and is frequently ground of alterations with greater or lesser intensity and danger. the authors review the consequences of air pollution on the respiratory system. they define air pollution, indoor and outdoor pollution, and primary and secondary pollution. they briefly review respiratory system defense mechanisms and describe harmful actions of different air pollutants to airways: so2, no2, co, o3, aerosols and particles. they point to the consequences of tobacco smoking due to its importance to health. they conclude with comments on the intervention that pneumology and pneumologists should have in this matter, drawing the attention of the community and authorities to the risks of pollution to health in general and to the respiratory system in particular.