ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE INCREASE IN CHRONIC RHEUMATIC DISEASES IN CHILDREN
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18061022Keywords:
pediatric rheumatic diseases, environmental factors, air pollution, climate change, infections, tobacco exposure, Uzbekistan, prevention.Abstract
This article examines the role of environmental factors in the rising incidence of chronic rheumatic diseases (CRD)
in children, including juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and juvenile dermatomyositis
(JDM). The primary objective is to identify key environmental factors (air pollution, climate change, infections, tobacco
exposure, and others) that affect children’s immune systems and to propose practical measures for their mitigation in the
context of Uzbekistan. A systematic literature review and available epidemiological data were analyzed. Results indicate
that air pollution (PM2.5, NO2), climate change, early-life infections, and maternal smoking significantly increase disease
risk. In Uzbekistan, elevated pollution levels in Tashkent, Fergana Valley, and Navoi regions, combined with climate
extremes, may further intensify this trend. In conclusion, environmental monitoring, infection prevention, and maternal
health improvement are essential to reduce the incidence of CRD. This analysis provides a foundation for future research
and underscores the importance of environmental protection for children’s health in Uzbekistan
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