Air pollution threatens lung health: Here's how to prevent health issues caused by unhealthy air

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• Oct 25, 2023 | Dhupali Das

Air pollution, a pervasive environmental hazard, is emerging as a major threat to lung health, with significant implications for public health...

Digital Desk: Air pollution, a pervasive environmental hazard, is emerging as a major threat to lung health, with significant implications for public health. According to recent data, it has now secured its position as the ninth leading risk factor for cardiopulmonary mortality, affecting an alarming nine out of ten individuals residing in urban areas worldwide.

The harmful effects of air pollution on the lungs are multifaceted, spanning from the exacerbation of pre-existing conditions to the initiation of new ones. Long-term exposure to airborne pollutants has been linked to the development of chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Particularly pernicious are particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen oxides, which trigger inflammation and disrupt lung function.

In the gravest of circumstances, prolonged exposure to these pollutants has been associated with lung cancer, with children and the elderly being at a heightened risk due to their less efficient particle clearance mechanisms.

Alarming reports reveal that even individuals who were previously stable are now experiencing severe coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, and sleep disturbances as a result of worsening air quality.

While experts emphasize avoiding self-administered antibiotics in response to these symptoms, it is also advisable to refrain from venturing outdoors early in the morning when smog and pollutant levels are at their peak.

However, there are several preventive measures that can be taken to mitigate the impact of air pollution on lung health.

1. Monitor AQI: Regularly monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) in your area. Services like AirNow.gov provide daily air quality updates, enabling individuals to plan outdoor activities accordingly. On days when air quality is poor, it is advisable to avoid outdoor exercise and high-traffic areas.

2. Mask Up: Whenever feasible, opt for active transportation over motorized options, and choose routes that minimize exposure to near-road air pollution. When venturing outdoors during periods of elevated pollution, the use of masks is recommended, along with moderating physical activity.

3. Maintain Indoor Air Quality: Indoor air quality is of equal importance. To safeguard lung health, avoid burning wood or trash indoors and ensure proper ventilation within your home. Steer clear of second-hand and third-hand smoke, as the combination of these with indoor pollutants can lead to the formation of compounds harmful to the lungs.

4. Use Air Purifiers: Although the scientific evidence regarding air purifiers is inconclusive, they may offer benefits to individuals with underlying health conditions. Keeping rooms well-sealed and employing air purifiers could be a prudent measure to reduce indoor air pollution.

In light of the growing threat posed by air pollution to lung health, it is imperative that individuals take proactive steps to protect themselves and their loved ones. Through vigilance, awareness, and adherence to these preventive measures, we can work towards reducing the health risks associated with this silent environmental menace.