Final answer:
Air pollution causes serious health issues, including respiratory and circulatory system damage, various cancers, and chronic illnesses. Preventive measures such as monitoring the Air Quality Index and maintaining clean indoor environments are essential. The tragedy of the commons illustrates the collective cost of pollution due to individual actions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The impact of air pollution on human health is significant, with millions of individuals affected annually. It contributes to a range of diseases, including respiratory and circulatory system damage, asthma, lung cancer, heart disease, and chronic illnesses. As a response to outdoor and indoor air pollution, preventive measures such as checking the Air Quality Index (AQI), keeping homes free from allergens, and ensuring proper functioning of air conditioning systems are crucial for protecting one's health.
Outdoor air pollution, often visible in cities as smog, can cause severe health issues like eye irritation and respiratory problems. It is important to remember that while individuals may enjoy the benefits of modern conveniences, the collective actions contribute to what is known as the 'tragedy of the commons', with air pollution being a collective cost to health and the environment. Thus, awareness and protective actions are necessary to mitigate the health risks associated with air pollution.