Effects of environmental pollutant exposure on the development of immune system in children

Exposure to environmental pollutants can lead to the release of inflammatory factors and impaired immune function. Based on the e-waste recycling area, aiming to investigate the impact of pollutants on children's immune system development and associated health risks, this study measures the levels of internal and external exposure to environmental pollutants, including heavy metals, organic pollutants, and atmospheric pollutants, along with immune-related markers such as peripheral blood inflammatory cells, cytokines, and serum-specific antibody concentrations following Class Ⅰ vaccination. The results shows that pollutant levels in the e-waste recycling area are high. Long-term exposure leads to chronic low-grade inflammation in children. The titers of specific antibodies post-vaccination are low and negatively correlated with the pollutant exposure level. Children exhibit a compromised mucosal immune system, leading to increased occurrences of respiratory and digestive issues like influenza and diarrhea. Age, gender, nutritional status, and combined exposure are associated with changes in children's immune function. Low-grade inflammation is a key factor in aging and chronic diseases, as well as a major predisposing factor for various organ system injuries and diseases. It increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and autoimmune diseases as children grow older. This study suggests that exposure to environmental pollutants can increase the risk of related diseases in adulthood by interfering with the normal development of the immune system in childhood. These studies provide a scientific basis for targeted vaccination policies and early chronic disease prevention strategies.