Air pollution is a significant environmental risk factor that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, particularly children living in urban settings. Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants has been linked to respiratory disorders, impaired lung development, and increased hospital admissions. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the association between ambient air pollution levels and respiratory health outcomes in children aged 5–12 years across three major metropolitan areas. Data were collected from 1,200 participants using clinical examinations, spirometry, and structured parental questionnaires regarding respiratory symptoms, lifestyle factors, and household exposures. Air quality data were obtained from government monitoring stations and modeled for local exposure estimates. Statistical analysis revealed that children residing in areas with higher PM2.5 concentrations had a significantly higher prevalence of asthma (odds ratio [OR] = 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5–2.9) and chronic bronchitis-like symptoms (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.3–2.5). Socioeconomic factors such as parental education and household smoking further modified the risk. These findings underscore the need for stricter urban air quality regulations and targeted interventions, including awareness campaigns and health monitoring programs, to mitigate adverse respiratory outcomes in children.

Keywords: Air pollution, respiratory health, asthma, children, environmental health, public health