High levels of pollution from vehicle exhaust fumes and other types of fuel combustion are linked to pneumonia related deaths, according to a study released Tuesday.

Researchers from Birmingham University studied atmospheric emissions in England for the period 1996-2004 and attributed some 4,000 extra pneumonia deaths each year to engine pollution

Carbon monoxide, a toxic gas found in car exhausts, could also be a life saver, according to the newly released findings of research. At very low doses, carbon monoxide could relieve asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease leading to signs of improvement in their condition.

The gas is also showing promise for treating other chronic and acute inflammatory conditions, the New Scientist reported in this week's edition. However the odorless and invisible gas is dangerous in high doses because it is taken up and stored by red blood cells instead of oxygen. It results in insufficient oxygen transport around the body

Smoking among young Filipino women is on the rise, according to a study released at a conference in Singapore. The study said 18 percent young adult Filipinas light up cigarettes compared to only 2.4 percent in Thailand and other Asian nation.

Nevertheless, female smoking in other Asian countries will proceed at a faster rate than their counterparts in Europe and Latin America that in 15 years there will be more women smokers in the Asia-Pacific region, said Dr. Antonio Anzueto of the University of Texas Health Center

Air pollution could potentially harm blood vessels and clotting abilities of people with heart disease, a European study has found.

A study by the University of Edinburgh and Umea University has warned heart patients to avoid heavy traffic when exercising or simply workout indoors to avoid breathing polluted air

Philippine Health Secretary Francisco Duque announced on Tuesday the government is ready to implement a tobacco advertising ban on billboards, despite protests from cigarette manufacturers.

"While a war against cigarettes is sweeping entire continents to create a tobacco-free world, we cannot be the last nation standing without the political will to take the necessary steps against tobacco advertisements," Duque said