Final answer:
Oxidative stress can result in permanent damage to cellular components and contribute to aging. In the lungs, it can be caused by pollutants and smoking, leading to respiratory symptoms and diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Oxidative stress refers to damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can result in permanent damage to cellular components including lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. This damage can lead to genetic mutations, diseases such as cancer, and is believed to contribute to aging. In the context of the lungs, oxidative damage can be caused by pollutants and smoking, leading to respiratory symptoms, lung diseases, and decreased lung function.