5 Chronic Illnesses Worsened by Outdoor Air Pollution
Outdoor air pollution has become a concerning issue, and it is only getting worse. The more we learn about air pollution, the more we realize its impact on our health. Air pollution is a complex mixture of gases and particles that have several sources, including transportation, industry, and agriculture. Every year, it leads to many chronic illnesses worldwide, including the five mentioned below.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Outdoor air pollution can trigger asthma episodes, making it harder for those with asthma to breathe. Air pollution exposure is also linked to the development of asthma, especially in children.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is a progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. It is typically caused by exposure to smoking or air pollution. Outdoor air pollution has also been linked to the development and worsening of COPD. In cities with high levels of pollution, people are more likely to develop COPD than those living in rural areas.
Heart Disease
Air pollution is a risk factor for heart disease. Outdoor air pollution can cause inflammation in the heart, which can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure. An increase in particle pollution, for example, has been linked to a 20% increase in the risk of heart disease.
Lung Cancer
Exposure to air pollution is linked to lung cancer. When people breathe in polluted air, they inhale carcinogenic substances like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and benzene, which can damage the lungs and lead to cancer. The risk of developing lung cancer is especially high for those living in industrial areas or cities with high levels of pollution.
Stroke
Air pollution is a risk factor for stroke. High levels of pollution can cause blood clots, which can lead to an increased risk of stroke. Exposure to pollutants in the air can also cause inflammation in the blood vessels, which can increase the likelihood of a blockage.
In conclusion, chronic illnesses like asthma, COPD, heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke are worsening due to outdoor air pollution. To prevent these illnesses from affecting our communities, we must prioritize clean air initiatives and limit emissions from various sources. This includes reducing the number of vehicles on the road, promoting renewable energy sources, and encouraging people to use public transportation or carpool. Clean air is essential for good health, and it’s important for us to take action now.
