The Role of Pollution in Chronic Diseases

Air is the most important element, without which no life is possible. But what if we say that the air that gives you life is also poisoning you gradually? Don’t be surprised. Thanks to the day-by-day increasing air pollution, the air we breathe has become contaminated enough to take a toll on our health. It lurks as a silent threat, silently infiltrating our surroundings and, alarmingly, our health. Besides drastically impacting the environment, pollution plays a pivotal yet often underestimated role in several chronic diseases. Let’s explore this undeniable link between pollution and chronic disease. So, let’s get started.

Air Pollution – A Silent & Hidden Threat To Your Health

Pollution is a big term encompassing varied forms; air pollution is the most notorious. Prolonged exposure to polluted air can affect our lung’s breathing capacity, leading to various health troubles. Scroll down to find the diseases you should be aware of.

• Respiratory Disorders: Do we have to say anything about this? Among the most immediate and noticeable effects of pollution are respiratory disorders. The particulate matter and notorious gases in the air infiltrate our lungs with each breath, causing breathing troubles. Prolonged exposure to polluted air significantly contributes to chronic health problems like Asthma, Bronchitis, and chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It takes a toll on your respiratory health, compromises normal function, and reduces overall quality of life.
• Cardiovascular Complications: If you think that it only targets the lungs, you are wrong. Air pollution impacts extent beyond the lungs and affects our cardiovascular health. According to some studies, air pollution and heart disease are very much connected. The toxic particulates of air pollution contribute to arterial plaque buildup and increase your risk for heart attacks, stroke, or hypertension.
• Neurological Disorder: While the impact of air pollution on neurological health is not widely recognized, it can lead to several Neurological Disorders, like cerebrovascular barrier disorder, neural inflammation, neurodegeneration, and more. It is the hard reality that the fine particulate matter doesn’t just stop at the lungs; it infiltrates the bloodstream, crossing the blood-brain barrier. This intrusion can cause neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, accelerating the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
• Skin Problem: While people often focus on the impact of air pollution on the respiratory system or cardiovascular health, its effects on the skin are equally profound. The constant exposure to such harmful pollutants present in the air can cause skin damage, premature aging, and exacerbation of several skin disorders.
• Cardiometabolic Conditions: You read that right. Longer exposure to air pollution disrupts metabolic pathways, contributing to obesity, diabetes, or insulin resistance.
• Eye Irritation And Vision Problem: The particulate in the air that makes it polluted can also irritate the eyes, leaving them all teary and red. Also, prolonged exposure to air pollution can lead to long-term issues like compromised eyesight, dryness, discomfort, etc.

The far-reaching impact of air pollution on health emphasizes the requirement for preventive measures to reduce and mitigate the risks and keep yourself safe. The perilous relationship between pollution and health disease is undeniable, imposing a colossal burden on public health globally.

So, what to do?

Tips To Prevent The Impact Of Air Pollution On Health:

• Stay Updated And Vigilant: Being informed about the local air quality by checking the AQI is essential to making smart moves. It is always advisable to avoid outdoor activities on days when air quality is extremely poor, and pollution levels are high.
• Do Not Miss Your Masks: Keep your masks on while going out in the toxic air, as it can otherwise influence your lung, heart, and brain health. It becomes paramount if you have ongoing respiratory issues.
• Keep Eyes Protected: Always wear glasses or sunglasses to protect your eyes from airborne pollutants and reduce irritation.
• Do Not Skip Your Skincare: Skincare is essential, especially when the skin is exposed to toxic air or pollutants. It is necessary to follow a skincare regimen to shield the skin from the harmful effects of pollution.
• Eat Healthy: Your dietary choices are key factors contributing to your good health. Therefore, when the pollution in the air is all set to take a toll on your health, you should keep your immunity ready to fight against it with mindful dietary choices.
• Exercise Daily: While outdoor activities should be limited or avoided to the possible extent, you still should exercise, perhaps indoors. Regular exercise helps keep your immunity strong and prepares you for the harmful impacts of pollution on your health.
• Do Not Miss Regular Checkups: You cannot control the air quality outside but can maintain your health. Get indulged in routine health checkups to assess your health, identify abnormalities (if any), and act upon it while there is still time.

Choose Redcliffe Labs For Routine Health Checkups:

Whether you want to test your immunity or overall health, Redcliffe Labs, Healthy India Ki Trusted Lab, is the reliable destination for all your diagnostic service-related needs. We offer a comprehensive range of preventive to specialized health checkups under one roof at highly affordable prices. You can schedule the test online and get tested comfortably from home with us. Your health is our priority, and we won’t mind walking extra miles for your comfort and convenience. So, delay no more and schedule your Full Body Checkup with us today to monitor your health.