THE ATMOSPHERIC-ENVIRONMENT - AN INTRODUCTION

The atmosphere is part of the environment with which the human organis m is permanently confronted. Epidemiological research investigates the occurrence of effects on morbidity and mortality due to heat, cold, a ir pollution and changes in the weather. Concentrating on aspects of t he environment relevant for medical questions, three major complexes o f effects can be discriminated: the complex conditions of heat exchang e, the direct biological effects of solar radiation, and air pollution . Biometeorological knowledge can serve to assess the atmospheric envi ronment, and can also be of help in the field of preventive planning, to conserve and develop the climate as a natural resource with regard to man's health, well-being and performance.