The illustration reflects the critical situation of air pollution in Mexico City and its impact on respiratory health. The use of face masks symbolizes the vulnerability of the population exposed to high concentrations of ozone and suspended particles, especially after the environmental contingency episodes recorded in 2024. Our study showed that outdoor workers, such as street vendors, frequently experience respiratory symptoms (cough, expectoration, dyspnea), recurrent infections, and exacerbations of chronic diseases such as asthma and COPD. These findings underscore the need to strengthen epidemiological surveillance and prevention strategies to reduce the disease burden associated with poor air quality. The cover seeks to convey the importance of recognizing pollution as a social determinant of health and a priority challenge in medical practice and public policy.
Brief description of the cover: Dr. Alejandro Hernández.