Air Quality Monitoring in Schools: Evaluating the Effects of Ventilation Improvements on Cognitive Performance and Childhood Asthma

In schools, indoor air quality (IAQ) is critical to students' health, cognitive performance, and overall well-being. Poor ventilation can lead to increased exposure to airborne pollutants, exacerbating respiratory conditions, such as childhood asthma, while impairing concentration, memory, and academic performance. Poor IAQ contributes to nearly 14 million missed school days annually due to asthma-related complications and a 15% increase in asthma-related hospital visits among students. This review examines the impact of ventilation improvements on air quality, cognitive function, and asthma prevalence among school-aged children. It explores various air quality monitoring techniques, the effectiveness of ventilation upgrades, and the regulatory frameworks guiding indoor air quality in educational settings. Literature suggests that enhanced ventilation strategies, such as high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration and increased outdoor air exchange, significantly reduce indoor pollutants. These improvements correlate with better respiratory health outcomes and cognitive enhancements, demonstrating the need for evidence-based policies to promote optimal IAQ in schools. School administrators and policymakers can foster healthier learning environments that support student development and long-term well-being by integrating air quality monitoring with sustainable ventilation strategies. The review underscores the urgency of adopting cost-effective, scalable air quality interventions to mitigate health risks and enhance academic performance in educational institutions.