Air pollution and health: A lethal combination

Air pollution is a grave concern that has a significant impact on health. It's the leading environmental cause of death worldwide, contributing to over seven million premature deaths annually.

The effects of air pollution are not limited to the respiratory system but also affect other vital organs like the heart and brain. In this article, we will discuss the major impacts of air pollution on human health

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How air pollution affects health?

Here are five ways:

#1 Respiratory diseases

Air pollution can cause several respiratory diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer.

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are two of the most harmful air pollutants that can enter the lungs and cause inflammation, damage to the airways and reduced lung function.

Long-term exposure to air pollution can also increase risk of respiratory infections and exacerbate existing respiratory conditions.

#2 Cardiovascular diseases

Air pollution is also a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases like heart disease and stroke.

Exposure to air pollutants can cause inflammation, oxidative stress and damage to blood vessels, leading to development of atherosclerosis. Air pollution can also increase risk of hypertension, heart attacks and other cardiovascular conditions.

According to the American Heart Association, air pollution can cause more deaths from cardiovascular diseases than from lung cancer.

#3 Neurological disorders

Air pollution can affect the brain and nervous system. Exposure to air pollutants such as PM2.5, lead and mercury can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, leading to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

Air pollution can also impair cognitive function, including memory, attention and language.

#4 Reproductive and developmental disorders

Air pollution can also have adverse effects on reproductive and developmental health.

Exposure to air pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and dioxins can cause infertility, miscarriage and birth defects. In pregnant women, exposure to air pollution can increase risk of premature birth and low birth weight.

Children exposed to air pollution can experience developmental delays, impaired lung function and other problems.

#5 Cancer

Air pollution is also a known carcinogen, with several air pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons classified as human carcinogens. Exposure to air pollution can increase risk of lung cancer, bladder cancer and other types of cancer.

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Air pollution is a significant threat to human health, and its impact is widespread. Respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, reproductive and developmental disorders, and cancer are some of the major risks associated with air pollution.

Reducing air pollution levels through policy interventions, like promoting clean energy and sustainable transportation, can help protect public safety and prevent premature deaths. It's vital to raise awareness about the health impacts of air pollution and take action to reduce this deadly menace.