Air Pollution is a major threat to human health, contributing to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and premature death. When inhaled, pollutants can enter the bloodstream, causing both short-term irritation and long-term damage to the lungs, heart, brain, and other organs. Those most vulnerable include children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing conditions.
Air Pollution is a major threat to human health, contributing to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and premature death. When inhaled, pollutants can enter the bloodstream, causing both short-term irritation and long-term damage to the lungs, heart, brain, and other organs. Those most vulnerable include children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing conditions.
Respiratory and cardiovascular effects
Respiratory diseases: -
Air pollution can cause or worsen asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis, leading to increased coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
Cardiovascular damage:-
Inhaling pollutants can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure by clogging arteries and causing inflammation in the heart and circulatory system.
Lung infections: -
It can increase susceptibility to recurrent cold and cough infections.
Other health impacts
Cancer: -
Long-term exposure to air pollution is a significant risk factor for lung cancer and other types of cancer.
Neurological effects: -
There is growing evidence linking air pollution to neurological problems and dementia.
Birth and developmental issues: -
Air pollution has been linked to low birth weight, miscarriages, stillbirths, and developmental problems in children.
Premature death: -
Globally, air pollution is the largest environmental health risk and a major risk factor for premature death, contributing to millions of deaths annually from diseases like stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer.
Who is most vulnerable?
Children: -
Their respiratory systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to respiratory infections and impaired lung development.
Elderly: -
They are more likely to have pre-existing health conditions and a reduced ability to cope with the effects of air pollution.
People with existing conditions:-
Individuals with heart or lung disease are at higher risk of serious complications from exposure.
Lower-income populations: -
Those in middle to lower-income areas are often exposed to high levels of household air pollution from using unclean fuels and have weaker healthcare systems to manage the resulting illness.
India's global pollution rank in 2024 was fifth, a slight improvement from third place in 2023. While the country's overall rank improved, it still faces significant air pollution challenges, with many of its cities being among the most polluted in the world. For example, Delhi remains one of the most polluted capital cities.
MJF Lion ER YK Sharma
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